Hey folks, let’s talk about the Stihl 015 chainsaw—now there’s a piece of history worth chatting about! This little 32 cc beauty has quite the story to tell, trust me.

So, picture this: it hit the scene back in the early ’70s and stuck around for a solid decade, from ’73 to ’83. And get this—it wasn’t just born in one place. Nope, it was crafted both in good ol’ (West) Germany and at Stihl’s shiny new Virginia Beach plant in the US, which fired up its chainsaw assembly line in ’74. Fun fact: the 015 was actually the very first Stihl chainsaw to roll off the production line in the USA. Talk about making history!

Now, what sets the 015 apart from its chainsaw buddies is that it’s not your run-of-the-mill professional tool. Oh no, this bad boy was tailor-made for homeowners, designed to tackle those DIY projects with ease. And here’s a neat little twist—it’s one of the rare Stihl saws that comes in both top handle and rear handle versions. You’ve got options, my friends!

But wait, there’s more! Brace yourselves for the pièce de résistance—the elusive Stihl 015 R version. And here’s the kicker: that “R” doesn’t stand for your typical wrap handle, as you might assume. Nope, there’s a whole other story behind it, and it’s one you won’t want to miss.

Alright, gather ’round, folks, because we’re diving deep into the world of Stihl 015 chainsaws—a world filled with variations, innovations, and a whole lot of history.

First things first, let’s talk about those orange 015s. If you spot one, chances are it’s a product of the good ol’ USA, starting its journey in 1974. But here’s the kicker: there’s not just one version of the 015 floating around out there. Oh no, there’s a whole lineup listed in the manuals, each with its own set of features.

Check it out:

1. The OG 015—your standard issue, complete with a top handle.
2. 015 AV—Anti-Vibration rear handle, making those long days of cutting a bit easier on the hands.
3. 015 AVE—Anti-Vibration plus electronic ignition, kicking things up a notch in the tech department.
4. 015 AVEQ—The full package: Anti-Vibration, Electronic Ignition, and Quickstop chain brake, keeping you safe and sound on the job.
5. 015 L—Designed specifically for limbing tasks, featuring that trusty top handle for maximum control.
6. 015 LE—Same as the L, but with the added bonus of electronic ignition for a smoother start-up.
7. 015 LQ—Limbing saw with Quickstop chain brake, giving you that extra layer of safety when you need it most.
8. And last but not least, the 015 R—Racing edition with a larger bore, always sporting that top handle for some serious speed.

Now, here’s the kicker—not all of these designations are plastered on the sides of the saws. Nope, you might only spot tags or plates with certain versions listed, like 015, 015 AV, 015 AVE, 015 L, and 015 R. It’s like a secret code only true chainsaw aficionados can decipher.

Oh, and don’t believe everything you hear about the L-designated models being exclusively electronic ignition. Nope, there are plenty of 015 L saws out there still rocking the points ignition system. Sometimes, you’ve gotta crack ’em open to see what they’re really made of.

Now, if you’re trying to play detective and pinpoint the age of a 015, keep an eye out for the logo. Pre-1977 models sport the classic wood cross-section logo, while those made after ’77 rock the slant STIHL logo. It’s like a timestamp right there on the saw, helping you piece together its story.

So there you have it, folks—a crash course in all things Stihl 015. It’s a world of possibilities out there, and these little saws have seen it all.

Stihl 015 Versions

Alright, let’s break it down further with some specifics about each version of the Stihl 015 series:

1. Stihl 015:
   • Years Made: 1973 – 1980
   • Description: The OG model, paving the way for the rest of the series. It’s a classic, no-frills chainsaw that gets the job done.
2. Stihl 015L:
   • Years Made: 1973 – 1983
   • Description: This bad boy is designed for limbing tasks, featuring a top handle for maximum control. It’s the go-to choice for precision cutting.
3. Stihl 015AV:
   • Years Made: 1976 – 1983
   • Description: With its Anti-Vibration rear handle, this version takes the strain off your hands during long cutting sessions. It’s all about comfort and efficiency.
4. Stihl 015AVE:
   • Years Made: 1974 – 1983
   • Description: Say hello to electronic ignition! This model kicks things up a notch in the tech department, ensuring a smoother start-up every time.
5. Stihl 015AVEQ:
   • Years Made: 1978 – 1983
   • Description: The ultimate package deal. Anti-Vibration, Electronic Ignition, and Quickstop chain brake combine forces to make this version the epitome of safety and performance.

So there you have it—a breakdown of the Stihl 015 series, complete with years made and specific features for each model. It’s like a trip down memory lane for chainsaw enthusiasts everywhere.

1. Stihl 015 AV

When it comes to the Stihl 015 series, let’s talk handles—specifically rear handles. The 015 AV, AVE, and AVEQ versions are the ones rocking the rear handles, with the AV system integrated into this setup. This style is perfect for tasks like cutting up firewood, pruning on the ground, or for those who prefer the more traditional handle design.

Now, if you’re comparing weights, you’ll notice a slight difference between the AV and non-AV versions. The 015 AV tips the scales at around 9.6 lbs, while its non-AV counterpart comes in at 8.1 lbs. But aside from that, they’re pretty much cut from the same cloth. Same bore and stroke size, same automatic oilers, same magnesium construction—you get the picture.

As for air filters, well, that’s where things can get a bit tricky. Depending on the exact version and the year and location of manufacture, you might come across some variation. There’s no hard and fast rule when it comes to air filters, so it’s always a bit of a wild card.

2. Stihl 015 L

When it comes to the Stihl 015 series, there’s a bit of a mystery surrounding those designations, especially when it comes to the elusive “L.”

Now, most folks assume that “L” stands for limbing, but not everyone’s convinced. Take this guy, for example—he’s adamant that “L” doesn’t necessarily equate to limbing on the 015L. According to him, the “L” might signify something else entirely, like “low noise” on later models, similar to the 023 L, which definitely isn’t a top handle saw.

But here’s where things get interesting: while most L-designated saws are indeed top handle versions, there’s a debate raging on about whether “L” really means limbing in the case of the 015. Some swear by it, while others aren’t so sure.

And let’s clear up a couple of misconceptions while we’re at it. “L” doesn’t necessarily mean electronic ignition, nor does it guarantee a different magneto. Plenty of 015 Ls out there still sport points and condenser setups, defying expectations.

Even trusted sources like acresinternet.com’s Chain Saw Collectors Corner can’t seem to agree on the details. They claim the 015 L has an electronic magneto, but turns out, that’s not always the case. Only the 015 LE got the electronic treatment.

So what’s the bottom line? Well, according to the owner’s manual, the only consistent difference between the 015 L and 015 AV is the handle—top handle versus rear handle. Everything else? Well, that’s up for debate.

3. Stihl 015 R

Ah, the enigmatic “R” on the Stihl 015—what does it really mean? Well, let’s unravel this chainsaw mystery together.

The best insight into the meaning of the “R” can be found in a thread on chainsawcollectors.se. One forum member stumbled upon an 015 R and turned to fellow enthusiasts for answers. Even after reaching out to a seasoned Stihl worker who’d been on the job since ’75, the origins of the “R” remained shrouded in mystery. It seemed like only a handful of these models ever made it out into the world.

But fear not, for our intrepid chainsaw sleuth didn’t give up. With a bit of persistence, they finally cracked the case. Turns out, the “R” wasn’t just any ordinary designation—it signified something special: a trial run with a bigger piston for more power. Talk about a game-changer!

Upon closer inspection, they discovered that the bore on the 015 R was a whole millimeter larger than its counterparts, coming in at a whopping 39 mm. No tech bulletins, no official part numbers—just a small-scale experiment that yielded some seriously rare chainsaws.

And that’s not all—the 015 R had another quirky feature: a funky bracket-looking part cast into the front cover. Why? Well, even the Stihl veteran couldn’t recall the reason behind this peculiar design choice.

So there you have it, folks—while some may insist that the “R” stands for a wrap handle, the truth behind the 015 R is far more intriguing. It’s the “Big Bore” version, a rare gem in the world of chainsaws. So if you ever stumble upon another 015 R, don’t hesitate—snatch it up before it’s gone!

4. Stihl HS 151

The Stihl 015 wasn’t just your run-of-the-mill chainsaw—it was a versatile powerhouse, capable of taking on a variety of tasks with the right attachments. One such attachment was the Stihl HS 151 hedge trimming attachment, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer.

Picture this: with the HS 151 attachment in tow, the 015 could transform into a hedge-trimming marvel, making quick work of unruly shrubbery with ease. And the best part? You didn’t need a separate engine for each attachment—just one trusty powerhead to rule them all. Talk about economical!

Mounting the attachments was a breeze, taking just a few minutes to switch from chainsaw mode to hedge-trimming mode. Plus, each attachment came equipped with its own corrugated spring clutch for seamless power transmission.

But wait, there’s more—the Stihl HS 151 wasn’t just for show. With its 24″ cutter bar, it packed a serious punch, effortlessly slicing through branches up to 1/2″ thick. From manicured hedges to stubborn shrubs, this combo could handle it all.

With these attachments, Stihl was pulling out all the stops for their first foray into the homeowner and light user market. The 015 wasn’t just a chainsaw—it was a multi-tasking marvel, ready to tackle whatever landscaping challenges came its way.

5. Stihl FS 151

Another fascinating aspect of the Stihl 015 is its compatibility with the FS 151 trimmer attachment—yet another testament to its versatility. It’s worth mentioning, although I won’t delve into the details here, it’s just another cool nugget of information about the 015.

Now, onto the brushcutter attachment. Stihl touted the lightweight FS 151 brushcutter attachment as the perfect complement to the 015 powerhead, capable of tackling a wide range of clearing, trimming, and thinning jobs with ease.

But its uses didn’t stop there. The FS 151 could also handle tasks like clearing grass and brush around shrubs, on slopes, along fences, and walls—areas that a standard lawnmower simply couldn’t reach.

And here’s where things get even more interesting: many parts of the FS 151 brushcutter and the 015 chainsaw are interchangeable. This means that these trimmers are often rebuilt using 015 chainsaws, and vice versa—a testament to Stihl’s commitment to practicality and efficiency.

So there you have it—the Stihl 015 isn’t just a chainsaw, it’s a versatile powerhouse capable of taking on a variety of landscaping tasks with ease. Whether you’re trimming hedges or clearing brush, the 015 and its attachments have got you covered.

Stihl 015 Specs And Features

Absolutely, diving into the world of the Stihl 015 has already unearthed a plethora of specs and features, each with its own unique nuances and variations. From the powerhead to the attachments, there’s a lot to unpack—and as you rightly pointed out, the exact specs and features can vary depending on factors like the version, year, and location of manufacture.

We’ve touched on everything from its engine power and weight to its handle design and compatibility with attachments. And while we’ve covered a lot of ground, there’s still so much more to explore for those who are truly fascinated by the intricacies of this iconic chainsaw.

So, as we wrap up our discussion on the Stihl 015, let’s appreciate the depth and complexity of this versatile tool, knowing that its legacy is built on a foundation of innovation, adaptability, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

When it comes to the Stihl 015 series, there are some common specs and features that apply across all models, giving us a solid foundation to work with:

• Displacement: 1.95 cubic inches
• Bore: 38 mm
• Stroke: 28 mm
• Automatic oiler

Now, here’s where things get interesting—while some models sported hand guards for added safety, others did not. It’s a small detail, but one that can make a big difference depending on your preferences and needs.

And then there’s the elusive chain brake. While the manuals list versions with this feature, sightings in the wild are few and far between. The chain brake made its debut back in 1968 on the 041 AV, so it’s entirely possible that some 015 models out there are equipped with this added layer of safety. If you happen to come across one or have seen one in real life, be sure to drop a comment below and share the excitement!

So there you have it—the Stihl 015 series may come in different shapes and sizes, but at its core, it’s a reliable and versatile tool that’s stood the test of time.

Stihl 015 Review

That video of the tidy German-made 015 in action is a real treat! It’s no wonder the 015 has garnered such positive reviews and become a sought-after collector’s item.

Apart from the rare 015 R variant, these saws aren’t exactly unicorns—you’ll often spot them up for grabs. However, the early models hold a special place in collectors’ hearts and tend to fetch a bit more on the market.

Now, when it comes to actually using the 015, opinions are a bit divided. Some folks find it to be a blast, despite its heft and modest power output. Sure, it may not be the snappiest tool in the shed, but its all-metal construction and rugged durability make it a favorite among vintage saw enthusiasts.

Of course, not everyone sings its praises. Some find the 015 to be a bit too heavy and underpowered for their liking, especially considering its age. And yes, sourcing parts for these vintage gems can be a bit of a scavenger hunt.

But for those who appreciate a good conversation starter or are building up their own collection of 015s, these quirks are all part of the charm. In fact, it’s not uncommon to come across enthusiasts with multiple 015s in their lineup—now that’s dedication!

So whether you’re in it for the nostalgia, the challenge of restoration, or simply to add a unique piece to your tool arsenal, the Stihl 015 is sure to make an impression.

Stihl 015 Price

When it comes to pricing the Stihl 015, it’s a bit like a game of roulette—condition and year are the main players, but there are a few wild cards thrown in too.

As I mentioned earlier, older models tend to fetch a bit more than their younger counterparts, and if you’re lucky enough to stumble upon a German-made gem, you might even snag a small premium.

Now, if you happen to have a prized 015 R in your possession and it’s in good nick, you could potentially cash in on its rarity and fetch a higher price than the standard model.

But let’s talk numbers. Typically, you’ll find 015s selling anywhere from a modest $15 to a respectable $100. Of course, if it’s purring like a kitten and ready to tackle any task, you can expect it to lean towards the higher end of that spectrum. On the flip side, if it’s in need of some TLC, temper your expectations accordingly.

Keep in mind, though, that availability varies from place to place. You might stumble upon a treasure trove of 015s in one location, while in others they’re as rare as hen’s teeth. This scarcity—or abundance—can certainly sway the price tag.

So, if you’re on the hunt for a vintage Stihl saw with a story to tell, keep your eyes peeled for the 015. And while you’re at it, why not check out some other classics like the 056, 075, and the ever-reliable 010?

Got any questions or insights to share? Drop them in the comments below, and happy hunting!