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Innovation in Gardening and Landscaping: STIHL MS 162

Introduction

We all value the beauty of our gardens and surroundings. With the right tools, it’s possible to maintain and enhance these beauties. However, choosing a new garden tool can sometimes be confusing. With the introduction of the STIHL MS 162, this confusion has only increased. So, does this new model really get the job done? Why should we choose the MS 162 over the MS 170? And how would a carpenter evaluate this tool? Let’s explore these questions together.

Differences Between STIHL MS 162 and MS 170

The STIHL MS 170 has been a beloved model on the market for years, favored by many homeowners. However, STIHL introduced a new model, the MS 162, and discontinued the production of the MS 170. The MS 162 is competitively priced at $179.99 at Ace Hardware stores. So, what changes does this new model bring?

Key Features and Innovations

The STIHL MS 162 comes with some innovative features compared to the MS 170. Specifically, there are two different models: the MS 162 and the MS 162 C-BE. The C-BE model has comfort features labeled B and E, which include Easy Start and Quick Chain Adjuster. However, some users have reported that these features can be faulty or problematic.

Fuel and Oil Tank Design: The MS 162 comes with a new fuel and oil tank design, aimed at providing ease of use, though it has received some criticism from users.

Air Filter Design and Control Lever: The new air filter design and control lever offer more efficient usage, although these changes have not always been positively received.

Single Bar Nut: The single bar nut on the MS 162 is viewed as a disadvantage by some users. This feature is common in STIHL’s lower-end models and generally receives negative feedback.

User Reviews and Experiences

Before the MS 162 was released, it garnered some comments from users. For instance, in a video by Oliver Digeronimo, it was mentioned that the MS 162 is a significant improvement over the MS 170. One user, after watching this test video, said the MS 162 cuts oak trees like butter and is worth every penny. Another user mentioned that while the MS 162 is not a professional-grade saw, it is sufficient for a homeowner.

However, some users noted that the MS 162 is slower than the MS 170 and almost two pounds heavier. They pointed out that the MS 162 weighs only half a pound less than the 50cc MS 261 professional saw. Some users expressed their preference for different models over the MS 162.

A Carpenter’s Perspective

As a carpenter, choosing the right saw is crucial. Evaluating the STIHL MS 162 for carpentry tasks is an essential part of this article. Carpenters should consider several factors when using a saw: power, ease of use, durability, and safety.

Power and Performance

The power of the MS 162 might be satisfactory thanks to its energy-efficient engine. However, it is reportedly less powerful than the MS 170. This can be a disadvantage when cutting large and hard wood. For carpenters, a powerful motor is always preferred, so the MS 162 might be better suited for light tasks.

Ease of Use

The Easy Start feature of the MS 162 seems advantageous at first, but some users have reported issues with this feature. For carpenters, the speed and ease of work are important, so this feature needs careful consideration.

Durability and Safety

As a carpenter, the durability and safety of the saw are critical. The new fuel and oil tank design of the MS 162 might be more durable. However, features like the single bar nut might pose long-term problems.

Alternative Models

If you are a carpenter looking for a more powerful and durable saw, you might consider models like the MS 261 or MS 251. These models are ideal for cutting larger and harder wood.

User Experiences

User reviews provide mixed opinions about the MS 162. Some users find it ideal for small tasks, while others deem it inadequate for larger jobs. For instance, a user with the handle @mabalicksbyyuo-sr7xk mentioned that the saw cuts large oak trees like butter. On the other hand, another user, @whatnot987, noted that the MS 162 is slower and heavier than the MS 170.

Conclusion

The STIHL MS 162 could be an affordable saw suitable for gardening and light carpentry tasks. However, it comes with some drawbacks, as indicated by user reviews and its features. For carpenters, opting for more powerful and durable models might be more appropriate. The MS 162 can be a good option for gardening and light carpentry tasks, but for larger and more challenging jobs, it would be wiser to consider alternative models.

Considering the performance and user experiences of the STIHL MS 162, you can decide if this saw is right for you. Selecting the right saw is crucial for a more efficient and safer experience in your garden and carpentry tasks. Remember, every tool has its unique advantages and disadvantages. The key is to choose the one that best meets your needs.