When it comes to cutting-edge chainsaw technology, STIHL remains the benchmark. For professional arborists and forestry businesses across the UK, the choice of tool can significantly impact efficiency, safety, and results. That’s where the STIHL MS 400.1 CM Petrol Chainsaw enters the picture — combining innovative design, class-leading power, and trademark STIHL reliability.
In this post, we explore why the MS 400.1 CM is rapidly becoming the go-to professional chainsaw for demanding tasks, how it compares to other STIHL chainsaws, and what makes it a worthy investment for tree care professionals.
A New Generation of Petrol Chainsaws
The STIHL MS 400.1 CM is the first chainsaw in the world to feature a magnesium piston, delivering outstanding power-to-weight ratio and durability. Designed specifically for professionals, it bridges the gap between performance and portability — making it ideal for intensive forestry work, felling, and de-limbing.
Whether you're upgrading from an older model or choosing your first STIHL chainsaw, this machine is engineered to impress.
🔍 Key Features at a Glance
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Engine Power: 4.0 kW (5.4 hp)
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Weight: 5.8 kg (excluding bar/chain)
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Displacement: 66.8 cm³
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Magnesium piston for reduced weight and improved acceleration
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M-Tronic 3.0 electronic engine management system for optimal performance
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HD2 air filter for longer run times between cleaning
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Decompression valve for easier starting
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Tool-free fuel and oil caps
⚙️ Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Power | 4.0 kW / 5.4 hp |
| Displacement | 66.8 cm³ |
| Weight (excluding bar/chain) | 5.8 kg |
| Power-to-weight Ratio | 1.45 kg/kW |
| Sound Pressure Level | 107 dB(A) |
| Vibration Level (left/right) | 3.5/3.5 m/s² |
| Chain Pitch | .325" or 3/8" |
| Recommended Bar Length | 16"–20" (40–50 cm) |
🔎 What Sets the MS 400.1 CM Apart
1. Magnesium Piston: Light Yet Mighty
The magnesium piston is a world-first in chainsaw design. It’s 13% lighter than its aluminium counterpart, contributing to better acceleration and lower overall weight. This means reduced fatigue during long hours of operation — a vital consideration for professionals.
2. M-Tronic 3.0 Engine Management
Forget manual carburettor adjustments. The intelligent M-Tronic system adjusts fuel flow electronically, responding in real-time to temperature, fuel quality, and altitude — ensuring consistent power delivery and easier starting in all conditions.
3. Optimised for Daily Commercial Use
With robust build quality, ergonomic design, and simplified maintenance, the MS 400.1 CM is tailor-made for commercial forestry and arborist work. It’s durable enough to withstand harsh UK weather, heavy workloads, and transport between sites.
🧰 Ideal for These Applications:
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Medium to large-scale tree felling
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Forestry clearing work
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Crown thinning and heavy pruning
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De-limbing in challenging terrain
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Site preparation and land management
Looking for the right chainsaw accessories? Pair it with STIHL’s professional-grade chains, protective gear, and carry cases — available here at Gustharts.
🔁 Cordless vs Petrol: Why Petrol Still Wins for Pros
Cordless chainsaws are gaining popularity for their quiet operation and low emissions — and STIHL’s cordless range is excellent. However, for high-output tasks in forestry environments, petrol chainsaws like the MS 400.1 CM offer:
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Greater runtime and torque
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Faster chain speeds
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More flexibility in remote locations
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Higher power-to-weight ratios for large-diameter cutting
If you work long hours in the field or tackle large trees daily, petrol remains the trusted choice.
🔄 Compare with Other STIHL Chainsaws
| Model | Power (kW) | Weight (kg) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS 400.1 CM | 4.0 | 5.8 | Pro forestry, daily heavy-duty |
| MS 261 C-M | 3.0 | 4.9 | General pro work, limbing |
| MS 462 C-M | 4.4 | 6.0 | Felling large trees |
| MSA 300 (Cordless) | 3.0 (equiv.) | 4.5 | Urban jobs, light felling |
Explore the full STIHL chainsaw range at Gustharts.
🔧 Maintenance Made Easy
Maintaining the MS 400.1 CM is straightforward, thanks to:
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Easy-clean HD2 air filter
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Tool-free fuel and oil caps
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Quick-access chain tensioner
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STIHL’s diagnostics-compatible design
For pro users, downtime costs money. This model reduces it.
🌱 STIHL’s Environmental Commitment
While petrol-powered, the MS 400.1 CM features reduced-emission engine technology that complies with strict EU emission standards. It burns cleaner than previous models and is designed for long product life, reducing waste and replacement cycles.
📌 Why Buy from Gustharts?
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Authorised STIHL dealer
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Full stock of accessories and replacement parts
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Trusted by professionals across the UK
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Fast, tracked delivery
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Expert support and advice
👉 Buy the STIHL MS 400.1 CM Petrol Chainsaw now at Gustharts
📣 Final Thoughts: Is the MS 400.1 CM Worth It?
If you're a professional who needs a high-performance, reliable, and future-ready chainsaw, the STIHL MS 400.1 CM is a strong contender. With its balance of power, efficiency, and next-gen features like the magnesium piston and M-Tronic 3.0, it represents excellent long-term value.
Built for the toughest jobs, trusted by the best.
