A light 18 in saw for homeowners who cut a cord or two of firewood a year. Step up to a Rancher for regular felling.
Amazon $399.99The Husqvarna 440 is the better chainsaw overall, rated 3.1 to 3.0. The Husqvarna 440 leads on warranty and weight. The STIHL MS 251 Wood Boss wins on power.
A fuel efficient 18 in STIHL for homeowners who cut a few cords a year and want dealer support.
STIHL $399.99Prices 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 Husqvarna 440 for warranty (2-year warranty vs 1-year warranty) and weight (9.8 lb (powerhead) vs 10.6 lb (powerhead)).
- Choose the STIHL MS 251 Wood Boss for power (45.6 cc engine vs 40.9 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 440 | STIHL MS 251 Wood Boss |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.1/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Value 30% | 42 $22.22 per inch of bar ($399.99, 18 in bar) | 42 $22.22 per inch of bar ($399.99, 18 in bar) |
| Power 25% | 24 40.9 cc engine | 42 45.6 cc engine |
| Weight 15% | 89 9.8 lb (powerhead) | 77 10.6 lb (powerhead) |
| Bar 10% | 75 18 in bar | 75 18 in bar |
| Warranty 20% | 25 2-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Husqvarna 440 | STIHL MS 251 Wood Boss | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Bar length | 18 in | 18 in |
| Chain speed | 56.8 ft/s | - |
| Chain pitch | .325 in | .325 in (RM3) |
| Automatic oiler | Yes | - |
| Power | ||
| Engine or battery | 40.9 cc, 2.4 hp | 45.6 cc, 3 hp |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 9.8 lb (powerhead) | 10.6 lb (powerhead) |
| Anti-vibration | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 years | 1 year |
