An easy starting light STIHL for homeowners who struggle with pull cords and cut only small wood.
STIHL $219.99The STIHL MS 172 C-E and the Husqvarna 135 Mark II are evenly matched, rated 3.0 and 3.0. The STIHL MS 172 C-E leads on value. The Husqvarna 135 Mark II wins on warranty and power. The STIHL MS 172 C-E costs $80 less ($219.99 vs $299.99).
A comfortable small saw for occasional pruning and cleanup by owners who value easy starting. At this price the 440 is the better buy for firewood.
Amazon $299.99Prices 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 STIHL MS 172 C-E for value ($13.75 per inch of bar ($219.99, 16 in bar) vs $18.75 per inch of bar ($299.99, 16 in bar)).
- Choose the Husqvarna 135 Mark II 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 | STIHL MS 172 C-E | Husqvarna 135 Mark II |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.0/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Value 30% | 87 $13.75 per inch of bar ($219.99, 16 in bar) | 58 $18.75 per inch of bar ($299.99, 16 in bar) |
| Power 25% | 0 31.8 cc engine | 12 38 cc engine |
| Weight 15% | 80 10.4 lb (powerhead) | 81 10.4 lb (powerhead) |
| Bar 10% | 50 16 in bar | 50 16 in bar |
| Warranty 20% | 0 1-year warranty | 25 2-year warranty |
Specifications
| STIHL MS 172 C-E | Husqvarna 135 Mark II | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Bar length | 16 in | 16 in |
| Chain speed | - | 55 ft/s |
| Chain pitch | 3/8 in Picco (PMM3) | 3/8 in mini |
| Automatic oiler | - | Yes |
| Tool-free chain tension | No | - |
| Power | ||
| Engine or battery | 31.8 cc, 1.9 hp | 38 cc, 2.1 hp |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 10.4 lb (powerhead) | 10.4 lb (powerhead) |
| Anti-vibration | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 1 year | 2 years |
