Twin-battery MSA 600C is boldest Stihl cordless chainsaw yet

Stihl has dramatically increased the power of its cordless chainsaw range by introducing the dual-battery MSA 600C. This 80V monster puts out a hefty 5.9kW – 0.5kW more than the firm’s 91cc petrol MS 661-CM – which makes it suitable for running bars up to 36in.

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Output such as this requires plenty of battery power. In fact, it will only work when two of the firm’s top-spec 40V AllPro AP 300 packs are slotted into the body. These will deliver approximately 40 cuts in 40x40cm timber before they need replenishing, with a rapid AL 1803 charger getting them back to 80% in 9min and 100% in 20mins.

There is a weight penalty for having so many lithium-ion cells on board. When the saw is fully loaded with batteries, a bar and a tank full of oil, it tips the scales at about 12kg.

Despite the output, Stihl isn’t badging this as a replacement for the MS 661. Instead, it’s aimed at contractors who have to work in environments where a high-revving petrol engine would cause too much disturbance. The official launch is scheduled for November.