Husqvarna 120 Mark III
#6 in GasFull review
A budget gas saw for homeowners who cut a little firewood and clean up after storms. Pick a bigger engine if you buck hardwood every year.
Amazon $219.99$219.99
The Husqvarna 120 Mark III is the better chainsaw overall, rated 3.3 to 3.0. The Husqvarna 120 Mark III leads on warranty and power.
STIHL MS 172 C-E
#14 in GasFull review
An easy starting light STIHL for homeowners who struggle with pull cords and cut only small wood.
STIHL $219.99$219.99
Prices were last checked October 31, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Husqvarna 120 Mark III for warranty (2-year warranty vs 1-year warranty) and power (38 cc engine vs 31.8 cc engine).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every gas chainsaw; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Husqvarna 120 Mark III | STIHL MS 172 C-E |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.3/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Value 30% | 87 $13.75 per inch of bar ($219.99, 16 in bar) | 87 $13.75 per inch of bar ($219.99, 16 in bar) |
| Power 25% | 12 38 cc engine | 0 31.8 cc engine |
| Weight 15% | 76 10.7 lb (powerhead) | 80 10.4 lb (powerhead) |
| Bar 10% | 50 16 in bar | 50 16 in bar |
| Warranty 20% | 25 2-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Husqvarna 120 Mark III | STIHL MS 172 C-E | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Bar length | 16 in | 16 in |
| Chain speed | 55 ft/s | - |
| Chain pitch | 3/8 in mini | 3/8 in Picco (PMM3) |
| Automatic oiler | Yes | - |
| Tool-free chain tension | - | No |
| Power | ||
| Engine or battery | 38 cc, 1.9 hp | 31.8 cc, 1.9 hp |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 10.7 lb (powerhead) | 10.4 lb (powerhead) |
| Anti-vibration | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 years | 1 year |