Break Out the Steele Magnum Chainsaw for Tough Logging Jobs
The Stihl MS 661 and MS 661 R professional chainsaws are ready for your serious tree work in forestry, municipal and tree services. Both saws have been designed by Stihl to provide the reliable performance needed for felling, delimbing and buckling of large diameter trees. These saws improve on the previous model (MS 660) with upgrades for fuel efficiency, air filtration and vibration reduction.
What's the big deal?
Stihl has upgraded several key areas of the new Magnum chainsaw. You can see physical design changes such as the handle and body shell.
Steele also claims improvements to the anti-vibration system. The MS 661 continues to include the ElastoStart handle, which has a built-in shock absorber that also helps reduce the effort required to pull the cord.


Speaking of easier starts, Stihl also kept the relief valve, which bleeds off pressure in the cylinder for easier starts. This valve temporarily reduces compression in the combustion chamber during cranking to reduce the force required to pull the starter cord. It turns on manually and turns off automatically when the engine fires.
Like the MS 660, STIHL's Magnum MS 661 chainsaw uses a washable HD2 air filter for long life. You can wash them, extending filter life and reducing maintenance costs. These filters also have a larger surface area, which allows for longer runs between cleanings and better performance when working in dusty and dry conditions.
other features
- Tool-less refueling and oil cap
- side entry chain tensioner
- Adjustable automatic oiler
- Wrap handle (on R models)
Steele on the Magnum Chainsaw
The MS 661 Magnum and 661 R Magnum feature a simple, proven non-electronic carburetor design that offers versatility for a wide range of professional use and smooth operation even with long guide rods.
John Allen, Product Manager, Steele Corporation
Price
Apparently, the Stihl MS 661 and MS 661 R Magnum chainsaws look like little bumps in the production line. While this may put some people off, it also reflects just how tough the MS 660 chainsaw is. If it doesn't break…you can get the standard model or the wrapped handle model for $1279.99 to $1309.99 depending on your preferred bar and chain size; you can get it in 16", 18", 20" and 25 inches (though these chainsaws will work with bars and chains up to 36 inches). They come with a 1 year residential warranty or a 3 month professional warranty.
To learn more about the Stihl MS 661 Magnum and Stihl MS 661 R Magnum, visit the STIHLusa.com website.
STIHL Universal Chainsaw Specifications
- Models: Stihl MS 661 and MS 661 R (wrap handle)
- Displacement: 91.1cc
- Power: 7.2 hp
- Weight: 16.5 lbs. (16.8 lb. on MS 661 R)
- Fuel Capacity: 28.7 oz.
- Guide Length: 16" to 36"
- Oil Capacity: 13.5 oz.
- Warranty: 1 Year Residential/3 Months Professional
- Price: $1279.99 to $1329.99, depending on handlebar and chain size