Stihl MS 500i owner opinions

[Tobystihl]

Here in the UK the 661 will do all you need. If you like the 500i then go for it, I find them too snappy, throttle is either flat out or on tickover, no fun at all with a shorter bar as kickback is brutal and instantaneous. Plus, if you are cutting all day make sure to bring along a fuel truck.

 

[Hulsty]

If you need to cut bigger wood coming from a 7900 a 500i is not it, they are equivalent saws. 7900 is lighter, 500i slightly more power on paper but in many videos they cut more or less the same. 661 or 592XP are bigger more powerful saws.

 

[singinwoodwackr]

If you need to cut bigger wood coming from a 7900 a 500i is not it, they are equivalent saws. 7900 is lighter, 500i slightly more power on paper but in many videos they cut more or less the same. 661 or 592XP are bigger more powerful saws.

Lighter…13.8 vs 13.9, lol

 

[StoneyMeadowMaple]

I asked around before buying the 400, a couple guys I talked to absolutely loved their 500’s but neither used them commercially, just personal firewood.

 

[MaxFlow Flters]

The Westcoast filter is a clever design that works if you are looking to keep the stock cover. However: it doesn't flow any better than stock and will require oiling rather than tapping or air cleaning. The MaxFlow for the 500 flows significantly more CFM than a new stock filter, meaning it will run much longer between cleanings. The drawback to maximum flow is that it requires a larger custom fit cover. It also requires oiling when you clean, but since it is larger, you don't need to do it nearly as often. Muffler mods are not necessary with the MaxFLow filter, in fact any aftermarket front muffler plate will reduce the mid-range power that you gain with a MaxFlow filter (slightly enlarging the outlet port won't hurt) Your ears will thank staying stock too. The MS500i is a great saw.

 

[FXJenkins]

Here in the UK the 661 will do all you need. If you like the 500i then go for it, I find them too snappy, throttle is either flat out or on tickover, no fun at all with a shorter bar as kickback is brutal and instantaneous.

yup its snappy all right. Ash borer beetle tree fell over the drive way the other day and I started cutting her up...shadows grew longer...and I remembered I had to get my daughter to soccer practice..walked backed to the house for the 500i and had it bucked up in about 15 min. Totally worth it.