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Remember that old but still popular STIHL 025 chainsaw? It’s known as a homeowner saw, produced from 1991 until the late 2002.

See, they designed this saw for ‘demanding occasional use.’ Meaning, it’s for those times when you need it, like cutting trees and such.

This tool comes with a 45 cc engine, packing 3 horsepower. It weighs about 10.4 pounds or roughly 4.7 kilograms. It had a really good power-to-weight ratio for its time and has proven its reliability and durability.

The chainsaw you see in the pictures belongs to 025 user Wesley Green. Also, Wesley’s Stihl 010 is featured here.”

Stihl 025 Chainsaw

You can tell how durable these old Stihl chainsaws are just by the sheer number of them still in use. Even though production stopped more than 20 years ago, the 025 is still the preferred choice for many when it comes to tasks like cutting firewood or lighter jobs.

People often like to compare the 025 with its beefier counterpart, the 026. Sure, the 026 might have more power, but that doesn’t mean the 025 is lacking. It’s like comparing apples and oranges, really. The STIHL 026 is a professional saw, designed for heavy-duty work, while the 025 is more of a homeowner’s tool, suited for occasional use. So, they serve different purposes and can’t be judged on the same scale.

One guy mentioned:

The STIHL 026 is like the Energizer Bunny, it just keeps going and going, known for its robustness.

Now, the 025 is a bit of a different story. Its clamshell design makes it a bit of a headache to tinker with.

And get this, there were actually two flavors of the 025:

• STIHL 025 Wood Boss
• STIHL 025 C

Those “Wood Boss” or “Farm Boss” labels? Just fancy marketing speak. Now, the ‘C’ in 025 C? That means it comes with some extra comfort perks.

So, what’s in the 025 C package? Well, you’ve got:

• Elasto Start: for a smoother kick-off
• Air purge: to make starting a breeze
• Quick chain adjuster: because who wants to fuss with tightening chains?

Apart from these added goodies, they’re essentially twins – same weight, same engine specs, you name it.

Review: Pros And Cons

Here’s what some seasoned 025 users had to say:

Positive vibes all around:

• “The 025 handles small jobs like a champ.”
• “Great for tackling medium-sized wood.”
• “Definitely packs more punch than the MS 180.”
• “Been rocking the 025 for ages with an 18” .325 – solid 3hp beast.”
• “Seriously impressed by the capabilities of this little 025.”
• “My $60 025 is still my ride or die.”
• “Got mine brand spanking new, and it’s been a rock.”
• “They may be small, but they’re mighty.”
• “The 025 is a bang for your buck, although it’s not the most premium build. If you’re in it for the long haul, though, look into the 026, 260, or 261.”

This guy’s got a serious soft spot for his 025s:

I’ve got not one, not two, but three Stihl 025s in my arsenal. Started off with the first one about two years back, slapped an 18-inch bar and chain on it, and it’s been my go-to ever since.

These babies roll with .325 pitch .063 gauge chains, either 66 or 68 drive links.

Let me tell you, I’m head over heels for my 025. Snagged the second one for a steal at $110, just needed a new brake handle, easy fix. And get this, I could flip it for double or triple the price!

Then there’s the third one, picked it up as a parts saw for 80 bucks, and you know what? Only hiccup was a busted gas line. Couldn’t bear to let a perfectly good saw sit idle over a little fuel line mishap, so I fixed her up good. Now, I’m rollin’ with a trio of trusty 025s.

Haven’t even had to tweak anything on ’em, been putting them through the wringer commercially for a solid two years now.

And let me tell you, with an 18-inch bar and that yellow chisel chain, it’s a straight-up beast. Keep the air filter tidy, feed it good fuel, and mark my words, it’ll outlive us all, buddy.

Let’s hear from the naysayers:

Not everyone’s singing praises:

• “Just another piece of homeowner junk.”
• “I wouldn’t even glance at a non-pro saw.”
• “Clamshell saws? No thanks, not my style.”
• “Sure, they’re alright if you stumble upon one for free or dirt cheap. But shelling out serious cash for one? Nah.”
• “I’d take one only if it was practically handed to me, and even then, it’d collect dust until I could pass it off to someone else.”

Now, let’s be real, the 025 might feel a tad hefty compared to what’s out there today, but it’s still a breeze to handle.

Just remember, it’s designed as a small-scale homeowner chainsaw, so as long as you’re using it within those limits, you should be golden.

Even though it’s been out of production for a solid two decades, don’t sweat it on the parts front. There’s still a boatload of ’em floating around, including the real deal OEM stuff.

All in all, it’s a solid pick for your everyday small firewood needs and a breeze to maneuver through those limbing jobs.

Specs and Features

Check out this blast from the past – the original 2001 Stihl 025 chainsaw product listing. Gotta love that vintage web design!

Let’s break down those 025 specs:

• Engine Displacement: 45cc / 2.77 cu. in.
• Power Output: 3 hp / 2.2 kW
• Weight: 10.3 lbs / 4.6 kgs
• Bore: 1.7″ / 42 mm
• Stroke: 1.26″ / 32 mm
• Compatible Bar Length: 12 – 18″
• Chain Type: #3977 26RM2-62 chain (available on Amazon for a 16″ bar)

Here’s a neat tidbit: all 025 models come with electronic ignitions, setting them apart from saws like the basic model 015 or any versions of the 031 AV, which rock points ignition.

Now, if you’re into spotting the oldies, keep an eye out for those fuel and oil tank caps. Before the flip caps of the MS series, the ‘0 series’ had screw-on caps that were a bit tougher to crack open. And hey, the older models sport a red lever instead of black. Some folks swear by those red levers, claiming they’re real screamers.

Oh, and just a heads up, having flip caps and a front chain adjuster might mean you’ve got yourself a “Stihl 250/025 Transformer.” This little hybrid gem popped up right before the 025 waved goodbye and the MS 250 made its grand entrance.

So, there you have it, the 025 in all its glory, summarized for your convenience.

Let’s dive into the features of the Stihl 025:

• Impressive power-to-weight ratio, especially when compared to other saws from its era.
• Side access chain tensioner, a step up from the older front mount tensioner style.
• Master control lever for easy one-handed operation of on/off, choke, and throttle control.
• Convenient easy-off air filter cover, a notable improvement over older models.
• Inboard-mounted chain brake to keep it protected from dirt and debris.
• Outboard mounted sprocket for easier installation of bar and chain.
• Simple sprocket replacement requiring only your chainsaw wrench.
• Equipped with two piston rings for sustained compression and efficient cooling.
• Upgraded to electronic ignition for enhanced reliability and ease of maintenance compared to older ignition systems.

On the original sales page, the 025 was touted for its:

• Outstanding power to weight ratio.
• Standard side access chain tensioner and Master Control Lever, with the Quick Chain Adjuster available as an option.
• Boasted a lifetime ignition warranty.
• Packed with many advanced features uncommon in chainsaws of its time.

Typically sold with a 16-inch bar, but adaptable for use with anything from 12″ to 18″.

Most users find it performs better with smaller bars rather than an 18″, as it can lose some power pulling the longer chain.

The Stihl 025 finds its niche in various tasks such as:

• Felling small trees.
• Clearing up after hurricanes and storms.
• Pruning and limbing trees.
• Serving as a light-use farm chainsaw.
• Handling other light yard work.

Furthermore, the 025 proves itself as a dependable backup chainsaw or a handy tool to keep in the trunk or on the tractor for managing downed trees.

Price And Parts

When it comes to pricing a Stihl 025, it’s all about the condition and the current market. Generally speaking:

• A well-maintained saw in good shape could fetch anywhere from $200 to $250.
• Snagging an 025 in decent condition for under $150 would be considered a steal.

However, keep in mind that the market can fluctuate, and prices can vary widely. As of now, you might spot them listed anywhere between $31 and $300 on eBay, showcasing the wide range of pricing out there.

Stihl 025 FAQs

The Stihl 025 chainsaw was manufactured from 1991 to 2002, after which it was succeeded by the Stihl MS250.

While the Stihl 025 is a dependable saw, it’s not considered a professional-grade tool like the Stihl 056 or 075. It’s designed more for occasional use around the home or farm, but if used appropriately, it can certainly get the job done.

With a displacement of 45cc, the Stihl 025 falls into the mid-range category for homeowner chainsaws. For comparison, the most powerful homeowner saws can reach around 60cc, such as the MS 310, while the least powerful ones range from 25 to 30cc. The Stihl 023, which belongs to the same series as the 025 (Series 1123), has slightly less power at 40cc.

While most Stihl chainsaws sold in the US are manufactured domestically, not all 025s were made in the US. The Stihl 015 was the first saw to be produced in the USA, starting in 1974. To get more specific information about your particular model, you can provide the serial number to your Stihl dealer.