Husqvarna 445S
#9 in GasFull review
A strong 18 in firewood saw for homeowners who want 50 cc power without Rancher weight.
Amazon $449.99$449.99
The Husqvarna 445S is the better chainsaw overall, rated 3.2 to 3.0. The Husqvarna 445S leads on warranty and power. The STIHL MS 251 Wood Boss wins on value. The STIHL MS 251 Wood Boss costs $50 less ($399.99 vs $449.99).
STIHL MS 251 Wood Boss
#18 in GasFull review
A fuel efficient 18 in STIHL for homeowners who cut a few cords a year and want dealer support.
STIHL $399.99$399.99
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 445S for warranty (2-year warranty vs 1-year warranty) and power (50.2 cc engine vs 45.6 cc engine).
- Choose the STIHL MS 251 Wood Boss for value ($22.22 per inch of bar ($399.99, 18 in bar) vs $25 per inch of bar ($449.99, 18 in bar)).
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 445S | STIHL MS 251 Wood Boss |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.2/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Value 30% | 31 $25 per inch of bar ($449.99, 18 in bar) | 42 $22.22 per inch of bar ($399.99, 18 in bar) |
| Power 25% | 61 50.2 cc engine | 42 45.6 cc engine |
| Weight 15% | 71 11 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 445S | 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 | 50.2 cc, 3 hp | 45.6 cc, 3 hp |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 11 lb (powerhead) | 10.6 lb (powerhead) |
| Anti-vibration | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 years | 1 year |
| Released | 2026 | - |