In this article, we will compare two popular models from each brand: the Stihl MS 291 Farm Boss and the Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaws.
We will examine and compare the specs and features, usage and performance, and safety and ergonomics of these two models to determine which brand is better suited for your specific needs.
By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of the differences between Stihl and Husqvarna chainsaws and be equipped to make an informed decision when choosing a chainsaw for your next project.
Key Takeaways
- Both Stihl MS 291 Farm Boss and Husqvarna 455 Rancher are durable and built to last.
- Husqvarna 455 Rancher is more affordable and easier to handle, while Stihl MS 291 Farm Boss is more robust and powerful.
- The factors to consider when buying a chainsaw are guide bar, safety, and comfort.
- Husqvarna 455 Rancher and Stihl MS 291 Farm Boss are comparable in terms of speed, overall features, and power output, but the Rancher is usually cheaper and has more advanced safety features.
Comparison Factors
Factors to consider when purchasing a chainsaw, such as guide bar, safety, and comfort, are important to take into account when comparing the Stihl MS 291 Farm Boss and Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaws.
The guide bar length determines the thickness of wood that the chainsaw can cut through, making it an essential feature to consider when selecting a chainsaw.
Both the Stihl MS 291 Farm Boss and Husqvarna 455 Rancher come with a guide bar ranging from 16 to 20 inches long, making them suitable for homeowners and mid-level professionals for farm and firewood cutting purposes.
Another crucial factor to consider when selecting a chainsaw is safety. Both chainsaws come with advanced safety features, such as inertia-activated chain brakes, felling marks, and low vibration dampeners, to ensure that users are protected from accidents.
Additionally, the chainsaws’ anti-vibration system and ergonomic handles make them more comfortable to use, reducing the risk of tiredness and accidents.
Husqvarna 455 Rancher is more affordable than Stihl MS 291 Farm Boss, making it more accessible to homeowners and professionals who want to enjoy its advanced features without breaking the bank.
However, Stihl MS 291 Farm Boss is 20% more fuel-efficient and 50% less polluting than previous models, making it a more environmentally friendly option.
Specs and Features
The specifications and features of both the Stihl MS291 Farm Boss and Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaws have been examined in detail.
The Stihl MS291 Farm Boss is a 55.5 cu 3.76 hp gas motor chainsaw with a 2.8 kW/3.8bhp power output. It has a chain pitch of .325 and a 4.5 vibration level left/right m/s.
The Stihl MS291 Farm Boss is available with a bar ranging from 16 to 20 inches long, and it has a 2-MIX engine for less fuel consumption and reduced emissions.
It also has an air filtration system with pre-separation for longer filter life, combustion technology for improved efficiency and torque, an anti-vibration system for safer and more comfortable use, a compensator for consistent fuel/air ratio, a quick-stop chain brake for safety, and a single-lever master control for convenience.
Additionally, it has a side-mounted tensioning screw for easy chain tensioning, automatic lubrication for optimal performance, and tool-free caps for easy fuel and oil tank refilling.
However, it can only be bought from an official dealer, which can be a drawback, and it is more expensive than the Husqvarna 455 Rancher.
On the other hand, the Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaw has a 55.5 cm3 / 3.49 HP 2-stroke gas motor and weighs 13.2 lbs (6kg) with a fuel tank of 0.32l.
It has Smart Start technology and a centrifugal air cleaning system, as well as a side-mounted chain tensioner and LowVib dampeners.
The Husqvarna 455 Rancher also has an inertia-activated chain brake and felling marks, making it easier to handle and safer to use.
Moreover, it has X-Torq engine technology, which lowers fuel consumption and emissions, and meets the world’s strictest carb emissions regulations.
The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is more widely available and cheaper than the Stihl MS291 Farm Boss, making it a popular choice for homeowners and mid-level professionals who require a reliable and durable chainsaw.
Usage and Performance
Regarding usage and performance, it is important to consider the intended application and the user’s level of experience when selecting between the Stihl MS 291 and Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaws.
Both chainsaws are suitable for homeowners and mid-level professionals for farm and firewood cutting purposes, but the Stihl MS 291 is more beginner-oriented than the Husqvarna 455 Rancher.
The Stihl MS 291 is 20% more fuel-efficient and 50% less polluting than previous models, thanks to its 2-MIX engine and combustion technology.
It also has an air filtration system with pre-separation for longer filter life, anti-vibration system for safer and more comfortable use, compensator for consistent fuel/air ratio, quick-stop chain brake for safety, single-lever master control for convenience, side-mounted tensioning screw for easy chain tensioning, automatic lubrication for optimal performance, and tool-free caps for easy fuel and oil tank refilling.
On the other hand, the Husqvarna 455 Rancher has X-Torq engine technology that lowers fuel consumption and emissions, as well as an inertia-activated chain brake that stops the machine using the force of inertia.
Its Smart Start technology and centrifugal air cleaning system, as well as the side-mounted chain tensioner and LowVib dampeners, make it easier to handle and more comfortable to use.
The Rancher has more advanced safety features and is more affordable than the Stihl MS 291, making it a popular choice for homeowners and mid-level professionals.
However, it is important to note that the Stihl MS 291 is more powerful and robust than the Husqvarna 455 Rancher, making it better suited for heavier cutting applications.
Ultimately, the choice between the Stihl MS 291 and Husqvarna 455 Rancher depends on the user’s specific needs and preferences, as well as their level of experience with chainsaws.
Safety and Ergonomics
When considering the safety and ergonomics of chainsaws, it is important to evaluate the design features that promote safe and comfortable use.
Both the Stihl MS 291 Farm Boss and Husqvarna 455 Rancher chainsaws have safety features such as an anti-vibration system and a quick-stop chain brake for safe operation.
The Husqvarna 455 Rancher also has an inertia-activated chain brake that stops the machine using the force of inertia, adding an extra layer of safety.
In terms of comfort design, both chainsaws have ergonomic handles that make them easy to maneuver. The Husqvarna 455 Rancher also has LowVib dampeners that reduce the vibration level to mitigate fatigue during use.
Additionally, the Stihl MS 291 Farm Boss has a compensator for consistent fuel/air ratio, which promotes optimal performance and lessens the likelihood of accidents.
Overall, both chainsaws prioritize safety and comfort design, making them suitable for homeowners and mid-level professionals for farm and firewood cutting purposes.
