Overview of the Husqvarna 460 Rancher
The Husqvarna 460 Rancher is an all-around chainsaw that’s designed to be relatively lightweight and easy to maneuver, yet still powerful enough to handle most common chainsaw tasks. Here are some of the key specs and features of the 460 Rancher:
- Engine Power: 3.7 hp
- Weight: 12.8 lbs
- Bar Length: 20 inches
- Fuel Capacity: 20 oz
- Ergonomic design
- Smart Start technology for easy starting
- LowVib anti-vibration system to reduce fatigue
- Translucent fuel tank makes it easy to check fuel level
- Air Injection technology removes debris before reaching the filter
The 460 Rancher is on the more affordable end of Husqvarna’s chainsaw lineup at around $470. It’s a great option if you want a balanced chainsaw that can handle most jobs without being overly bulky or heavy.
The smart ergonomic design makes this saw comfortable to use even for longer sessions.
Overview of the Stihl MS 391 Chainsaw
The Stihl MS 391 is described as a “capable performer” when it comes to chainsaws. Here are some of its key specs and features:
- Engine Power: 4.4 hp
- Weight: 14.1 lbs
- Bar Length: 20 inches
- Fuel Capacity: 20.3 oz
- Anti-vibration system
- Toolless fuel and oil caps
- Built-in winter/summer shutter for cold weather starts
- Translucent fuel tank
- Air filtration system
With its 14.1 pound weight, the MS 391 is heavier and feels more substantial than the Husqvarna Rancher. The additional engine power enables it to muscle through tougher cutting jobs.
It has convenient toolless caps to make refueling and maintenance faster. At around $535, it is more expensive than the Rancher but still a reasonably priced model in the Stihl lineup.
Overall, the MS 391 is best for those needing a rugged, powerful chainsaw.
Comparison of Weight and Power
Let’s look specifically at how these two chainsaws compare when it comes to weight and power:
Husqvarna 460 Rancher:
- Weight: 12.8 lbs
- Power: 3.7 hp
Stihl MS 391:
- Weight: 14.1 lbs
- Power: 4.4 hp
The Stihl MS 391 is clearly the heavier saw, weighing in at 14.1 pounds while the Husqvarna 460 Rancher is lighter at 12.8 pounds.
When it comes to power, the Stihl also has the advantage with 4.4 horsepower vs. 3.7 horsepower for the Husqvarna.
So in both weight and power, the Stihl MS 391 exceeds the specs of the Husqvarna 460 Rancher.
Those extra pounds and horsepower do come at a price though, as the Stihl carries a higher price tag than the Husqvarna.
Ergonomics Comparison
In addition to the weight and power, it’s also helpful to compare the ergonomic designs of these two chainsaws:
- The Husqvarna 460 Rancher is specifically designed for optimal ergonomics and handling. It has slim, rounded bodywork and rubber grips on the rear handle and front handlebar. This promotes good grip and reduces fatigue.
- The Stihl MS 391 also utilizes an anti-vibration system but doesn’t have quite the same ergonomic focus as the Rancher. The body design minimizes size while still allowing good handling for its weight class. It also has a front hand guard for safety.
For users who prioritize comfort and ease of handling during extended use, the ergonomic design of the Rancher gives it an advantage in this category.
But the MS 391 is still functional and manageable despite its larger size.
Recommendation
So which chainsaw is better, the Husqvarna 460 Rancher or the Stihl MS 391? Here are some quick recommendations based on common user needs:
- For homeowner use on a budget, go with the Husqvarna 460 Rancher. It has ergonomics and thoughtful features that make it easy to use for the average homeowner doing occasional tree trimming or firewood cutting.
- For heavy duty use and added power, choose the Stihl MS 391. The extra horsepower enables it to muscle through bigger jobs. It’s a great choice for frequent chainsaw use.
- If low weight is your top priority, the Rancher’s lighter body gives it the advantage.
- For convenience, the toolless caps on the Stihl simplify maintenance and fueling.
As you can see, there are good reasons to choose either of these great chainsaws. Take a close look at your needs and usage to determine if the extra power of the Stihl MS 391 is worth the higher price tag over the well-designed Husqvarna 460 Rancher.
With either saw, you’ll be equipped to take on a variety of chainsaw projects.
