The everyday Rancher for homeowners who cut their own firewood and drop the odd tree. A strong value at its price.
Amazon $499.99The Husqvarna 450S Rancher is the better chainsaw overall, rated 3.3 to 3.0. The Husqvarna 450S Rancher leads on warranty and weight. The STIHL MS 271 Farm Boss costs $10 less ($489.99 vs $499.99).
STIHL’s firewood and farm saw for owners who cut a lot of wood and want a dealer nearby.
STIHL $489.99Prices 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 450S Rancher for warranty (2-year warranty vs 1-year warranty) and weight (11 lb (powerhead) vs 12.4 lb (powerhead)).
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 450S Rancher | STIHL MS 271 Farm Boss |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.3/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Value 30% | 31 $25 per inch of bar ($499.99, 20 in bar) | 33 $24.50 per inch of bar ($489.99, 20 in bar) |
| Power 25% | 61 50.2 cc engine | 61 50.2 cc engine |
| Weight 15% | 71 11 lb (powerhead) | 51 12.4 lb (powerhead) |
| Bar 10% | 100 20 in bar | 100 20 in bar |
| Warranty 20% | 25 2-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Husqvarna 450S Rancher | STIHL MS 271 Farm Boss | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Bar length | 20 in | 20 in |
| Chain speed | 60.7 ft/s | - |
| Chain pitch | .325 in | .325 in (RM3) |
| Automatic oiler | Yes | - |
| Tool-free chain tension | - | No |
| Power | ||
| Engine or battery | 50.2 cc, 3.2 hp | 50.2 cc, 3.5 hp |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 11 lb (powerhead) | 12.4 lb (powerhead) |
| Anti-vibration | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 years | 1 year |
| Released | 2026 | - |
