Stihl is one of the most trusted names in chainsaws, known for rugged reliability and professional-grade performance. Two of its most popular models—the MS 271 Farm Boss and the MS 251 Wood Boss—often confuse buyers. While they seem similar, they serve different user types and tasks.
Let’s break down the key differences, similarities, pros, cons, and more to help you choose wisely.
🔧 Overview: Wood Boss vs Farm Boss
| Feature | Stihl MS 251 Wood Boss | Stihl MS 271 Farm Boss |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Displacement | 45.6 cc | 50.2 cc |
| Engine Power | 3.0 hp | 3.49 hp |
| Bar Length Options | 16″, 18″, 20″ | 16″, 18″, 20″ |
| Chain Type | .325″ RM3 chain | .325″ RM3 chain |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.2 oz | 16.9 oz |
| Weight (dry) | 11.0 lbs | 12.3 lbs |
| Intended Use | Homeowner/light landowner | Rancher/large landowner/farm use |
| MSRP (2025 approx) | $420 – $460 | $480 – $550 |
🪓 1. Performance & Power
Stihl MS 251 Wood Boss
- 45.6cc engine with 3.0 horsepower.
- Excellent for cutting firewood, small trees, storm cleanup, and trimming.
- Delivers clean and smooth cuts but may slow down in larger hardwood logs or wet wood.
Stihl MS 271 Farm Boss
- 50.2cc engine and 3.49 horsepower.
- Designed for felling medium trees, clearing trails, cutting dense hardwood, and farm work.
- Outperforms the Wood Boss in torque and cutting speed under load.
Verdict: The Farm Boss wins for power and torque, ideal if you’re dealing with tougher or more frequent cutting jobs.
🏋️♂️ 2. Weight & Maneuverability
- Wood Boss is lighter at 11.0 lbs, which helps reduce user fatigue, especially for casual users.
- Farm Boss is slightly heavier at 12.3 lbs, but the added power may justify it for experienced users.
Verdict: For lightweight, occasional use, the Wood Boss feels easier to handle. But if you’re working for extended hours, the Farm Boss’s power-to-weight ratio is worth it.
🧰 3. Features Comparison
| Feature | Wood Boss (MS 251) | Farm Boss (MS 271) |
|---|---|---|
| Anti-Vibration System | Yes | Yes |
| Side Chain Tensioner | Yes | Yes |
| Pre-Separation Air Filtration | Yes | Yes |
| Toolless Fuel Caps | Yes | Yes |
| Ematic Lubrication System | Yes | Yes |
| Decompression Valve | No | No |
| Winter/Summer Shutter | Yes | Yes |
Both models include Stihl’s anti-vibration system, tool-less fuel/oil caps, and chain lubrication systems, ensuring ease of maintenance and longer lifespan.
Verdict: Feature sets are nearly identical. It’s more about engine performance than features.
🏡 4. Intended Use Case
Stihl Wood Boss:
- Great for:
- Suburban homeowners
- Cutting firewood occasionally
- Light trimming or storm cleanup
- DIY fence and landscape work
Stihl Farm Boss:
- Best for:
- Rural landowners, farmers, ranchers
- Regular use and longer cuts
- Cutting down larger trees (12–20″ diameter)
- High-demand or seasonal work
Verdict: Wood Boss = Residential. Farm Boss = Heavy-duty land/farm use.
🧑🔧 5. Maintenance & Durability
Both models include:
- Pre-separation air filtration, extending filter life.
- Side chain tensioners for easy adjustments.
- Ematic system that reduces chain oil consumption.
The Farm Boss has a slightly more rugged internal build (e.g., crankshaft and bearings) designed to tolerate daily use in dirty or rough environments.
Verdict: Both are easy to maintain, but Farm Boss is built for longevity under rougher conditions.
💵 6. Price & Value
| Model | Approx Price (USD) | Value Rating |
|---|---|---|
| MS 251 Wood Boss | $420 – $460 | ✅ Excellent for the money |
| MS 271 Farm Boss | $480 – $550 | ✅✅ Better long-term value |
Verdict: If budget is tight and your tasks are light, the Wood Boss is a great pick. For those investing in a longer-lasting, more powerful tool, the Farm Boss offers more bang for the buck.
✅ Pros and Cons Summary
Stihl MS 251 Wood Boss
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Good for homeowners and occasional use
- Lower fuel consumption
- Quieter than larger models
Cons:
- Struggles with bigger hardwood logs
- Less torque under load
- Not ideal for daily or large-scale cutting
Stihl MS 271 Farm Boss
Pros:
- More power and torque
- Better for thick logs and hardwoods
- Built for rugged use and heavy-duty work
- Holds up well in farm/ranch environments
Cons:
- Heavier and more tiring for occasional users
- Higher upfront cost
- Slightly higher fuel usage
🔍 Expert Suggestions: Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Wood Boss (MS 251) if:
- You cut firewood occasionally
- Your property is under 5 acres
- You want a chainsaw that’s easy to carry, store, and operate
- You need something lightweight for cleanup and pruning
Choose the Farm Boss (MS 271) if:
- You’re cutting firewood frequently
- You own a farm, ranch, or a large rural property
- You regularly cut hardwoods or larger diameter logs
- You want something that lasts through years of heavy use
❓FAQs – Stihl Farm Boss vs Wood Boss
Q: Are both models suitable for beginners?
Yes. Both have user-friendly features, but the Wood Boss is lighter and easier for new users.
Q: Can either model cut down large trees?
The Farm Boss can handle medium-to-large trees (up to ~20″ diameter). The Wood Boss is best under 14″ diameter trees.
Q: Are they both 2-stroke engines?
Yes. Both use 2-cycle engines and require a fuel-oil mix.
Q: Which one is quieter?
The Wood Boss runs slightly quieter due to its smaller engine.
Q: Are replacement parts and chains easy to find?
Yes. Both are from Stihl’s mainstream lineup, so bars, chains, filters, and parts are widely available.
Final Verdict: Which Stihl Boss Is the Real Boss?
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Light Use | Wood Boss |
| Heavy-Duty Cutting | Farm Boss |
| Long-Term Durability | Farm Boss |
| Lightweight Handling | Wood Boss |
| All-Around Performance | Farm Boss |
| Budget Friendly | Wood Boss |
Summary
If you’re a homeowner or casual firewood cutter, the Stihl MS 251 Wood Boss is all you need. But if you’re on the land more often, especially with larger trees or frequent use, the MS 271 Farm Boss is your best long-term investment.
I’m David man behind Lawn Mowerly; I’ve been dealing with lawnmowers and Tractors with my father since I was a kid. I know every make and model and what each one is capable of and love helping people find the perfect equipment for their needs.