Stihl MS461

kjalaska · Dec 3, 2019

I am wanting a Stihl MS461 for my saw collection. I have found a new one locally for about $1100 US. My question is what would be a reasonable price for a decent running used saw. Have 2 I have found in my area for $800 with 20” bar, unknown age, and another for $600 with full wrap handle and well worn 28” bar. Both saws have been used and have probably seen plenty of wood. Have not yet bought a new pro saw but have picked up mine used and usually have to work on them to make them dependable. So is a guy better to bite the bullet and buy new once you get into the price range of used saws available to me? I know used is hit or miss from several other saws I’ve bought so just looking for input on current value. Want to get a 461 before the stock is gone. Thank you for opinions.

Freudianfloyd · Dec 3, 2019

I dont have an answer for you, as I got mine for $150 in nearly new condition because it was straight gassed, but I can say that you will honestly love the MS461. I run mine whenever I can, it's a powerhouse.

user 122190 · Dec 3, 2019

I bought mine for $800 here and it came with a 32"B&C, and nearly new. That was lucky on my part and 4 years ago.

FWIW, these saw, taken care of, can last 10 to 15 years, so can be considered inexpensive, if used a lot over that time and more.

catbuster · Dec 3, 2019

I buy new, but mine get run hard and they’re one of my tools I use to make a living. So, I have no problem shelling out $1100 on a machine that will pay for itself many times over.

That said, $600 for a 3/4 wrap 461 set up with a 28, even with some use on it, and a bar that looks well worn usually has a bunch of life left in it, doesn’t sound like too bad of a deal. It’s just over half of what one costs new. For whatever reason people seem to think that their used Stihl chainsaw is worth two tickets to paradise.

Ryan'smilling · Dec 4, 2019

catbuster said:
For whatever reason, people seem to think that their used Stihl chains is worth two tickets to paradise.

Boy ain't that the truth! I regularly see well used 291s listed on my local Craigslist and facebook marketplace for more than I paid for a new Jonsered 2166 this year on eBay. The best part is that the guys who buy the used Stihls will swear that they got the better deal!

kjalaska · Dec 4, 2019

Thanks for replies. I know used prices are whatever buyer is willing to pay. Was thinking the $600 saw was getting close to 50% of new so probably not too bad of a deal. I’m kind of thinking much more money and the saw better be fairly new or lightly used garage queen ect... I just really want to get one in my collection as I hear they are being discontinued and replaced by the 462. I have a nice running 441C with non Mtronic carb so not sure the 461 is a huge step up but like most folks on here, want is about all it takes for me to justify buying another saw!