Stihl MS 391 vs Husqvarna 460 Rancher

Stihl MS 391 vs Husqvarna 460

Stihl MS 391 vs Husqvarna 460 Rancher which one should you spend your hard earned money on ?

The MS 391 and 460 Rancher are both pretty capable performers and are probably the top two chainsaws that you are likely to see on farms and ranches.

However at their size they are still suitable for heavy home garden or small landowner use. If you are looking for something a little smaller that still packs a punch take a look at the Stihl MS 291 or Husqvarna 455.

Lets have a quick rundown of each saw and then choose a winner at the end.


Stihl MS 391

The Stihl MS 391 is powered by a 3.9 cu inch motor that puts out around 4.4 bhp. 

It has Stihl's Intellicarb system that will automatically adjust the air to fuel ratio. If the air filter ends up becoming partially clogged from sawdust and debris. As the air filter becomes more restricted the amount of fuel that is being used is also adjusted to help maintain engine power.

The air filtration system has the air cleaned of all heavy debris by centrifugal force before it is passed through the air filter. Thus lessening the chances of the filter clogging and increasing the time between cleaning the filter.

The one gripe about the MS 391 is how complicated it can be to start especially when warm. It is also prone to flooding when cold which can require you to remove the plug and make sure it is dry.


Husqvarna 460 Rancher 20-Inch

Husqvarna 460 Rancher 20-Inch

The Husqvarna 460 Rancher is powered by a 3.62 hp 60.3 cc 2-stroke motor. That motor tops out at a maximum speed of 9,000 RPM.

The 460 is best run with either a 20 inch or a 24 inch bar and chain. Chainsaws of this size are suitable for heavy garden work and commercial work on a farm or ranch.  

The 460 like all the Ranchers has a Husqvarna X-Torq engine. The X-Torq line of motors cut emissions by almost seventy percent and reduce fuel consumption by twenty. They are also CARB compliant for emissions.

Starting wise you have a couple of helpful additions to help start the 460 especially when warm. There is "Smart Start" which reduces the resistance on the starter cord making starting a little easier on the arm. And when the engine is already warmed up there is a decompression valve and an air purge diaphragm. 

Bar wise the 460 can accept bar lengths from 13 to 24 inches.

The 460 is the largest in the Husqvarna "Rancher" range. The two other options are the Husqvarna 450 and 455. 

The Ranchers are quite capable at clearing and wood management but not quite up to the power required for a commercial lumber enterprise.

As with most of the Husqvarna range if you purchase the 460 Rancher along with the either their oil or pre-mixed fuel you can extend the warranty in the following ways:

  • Husqvarna 2-stroke oil - must purchase 6 bottles on the same receipt for the warranty to be extended from 2 years to 3.
  • Pre-mixed fuel - must purchase at least 96 ounces on the same receipt Husqvarna will extend the warranty from 2 years out to 4 years.
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You must also register either online or via email for all warranties(the dealer may also do this for you).

Specifications

  • 3.62 hp 60.3 cc motor
  • 14.88 ounce fuel tank
  • Bar lengths 13 - 24 inches 
  • Side mounted chain tightener 
  • 2 year warranty

Stihl MS 391 vs Husqvarna 460 Rancher

Stihl MS 391 vs Husqvarna 460 Rancher which should you buy ?

Both are aimed at the heavy home user to light commercial/farm work. And like in any Stihl/Husqvarna debate both will have their ardent followers who would swear blind that the other is a piece of junk.

Although the Stihl is the more powerful saw it does suffer from a few issues. It is heavier and can be tricky to start. When warm it has a rather complicated starting procedure that really does take some time to get the hang of. 

Stihl's are only available through their dealer network too which can be a bit of a pain if you are not within easy driving distance of one.

The Husqvarna is the top choice. It is simple to use and easy to maintain whilst still being an incredible performer from a 60 cc motor.

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