MSA 161 T Top Handle Cordless Chainsaw
SKU: Stihl |
To buy this item, you need a CS39 certificate. Please upload a clear photo or scan showing your name and chainsaw qualification
STIHL Approved Dealer
As a STIHL Approved Dealer, we supply genuine UK-spec machines with full manufacturer warranty, professional preparation, and expert aftersales support.
A free spare chain with this machine
Worth £20-£40 depending on model. Your matching chain is added to your basket automatically.
£50 cashback from STIHL
Buy between 1 September and 18 December 2026, then claim from STIHL within 30 days. How to claim
- Regular price
- £303.00 Ex VAT
- £363.60 Inc VAT
- Sale price
- £303.00 £303.00 Ex VAT
- Regular price
-
- £363.60 £363.60 Inc VAT
Seaton Burn, Newcastle upon Tyne,
Tyne and Wear, NE13 6DA
Worldwide Shipping from the UK
Trusted UK Arborist Retailer
30-Day Easy Returns
Discount codes can't be applied to STIHL machines and batteries.
Key Features
- Lightest cordless top-handle in STIHL AP range, 2.1kg
- 1/4in PICCO PM3 chain, 16m/s chain speed
- Instant start, quiet enough that ear defenders not required
- For certified arborists only
Product information & specifications
STIHL MSA 161 T Top-Handle Cordless Chainsaw – Lightweight Battery Arborist Saw
The STIHL MSA 161 T is a lightweight battery-powered top-handle chainsaw designed for professional arborists and tree surgeons. At just 2.1 kg powerhead weight on the 36 V AP System, it is the lightest cordless top-handle in the STIHL AP range, running a 30 cm (12") bar with ¼" STIHL PICCO PM3 chain at 16 m/s chain speed. Runtime of up to 42 minutes with the AP 200 battery, or up to 50 minutes with the AP 300 battery. Gustharts is an authorised STIHL dealer.
Important: Top-handle chainsaws are approved for trained professional arborists working at height only. They must not be operated by untrained users or used as a ground-based rear-handle saw.
Key Features
- 2.1 kg Powerhead Weight – Lightest cordless top-handle in the STIHL AP range; exceptional balance and manoeuvrability for precision aerial work.
- Commercial-Grade Brushless Electric Motor – Consistent cutting speed and efficiency with reduced maintenance versus brushed motors.
- 30 cm (12") Bar with ¼" PICCO PM3 Chain – Fine-pitch chain for smooth, clean cuts in precision pruning and in-tree maintenance.
- 16 m/s Chain Speed – Efficient cutting performance for arborist applications.
- Instant Start – No pull-cord starting; instant on at trigger press — useful for quick task transitions when climbing.
- Quiet Operation – Significantly lower noise than petrol equivalents; ideal for noise-restricted urban tree work.
- Trigger Side-Lock Button and Large Throttle Interlock Lever – Safety features to prevent accidental starts during climbing and repositioning.
- Carrying Ring – Secure harness attachment point for aerial use.
- Ematic Lubrication System – Reduces bar oil consumption by up to 50%.
Why Choose the STIHL MSA 161 T?
The MSA 161 T is the entry point into the STIHL AP cordless top-handle range and the lightest option in the battery arborist lineup at 2.1 kg. For arborists doing extended precision pruning sessions where fatigue management is the priority, or working in noise-sensitive environments where a petrol saw is impractical, the MSA 161 T delivers a comfortable, quiet and clean experience. Its 16 m/s chain speed and ¼" PICCO chain are well-matched to fine pruning and detailed in-tree work. Arborists needing more power for larger cuts should step up to the MSA 190 T or MSA 220 T.
Complete Your Kit
- Replacement Chainsaw Chains – ¼" PICCO PM3 chains compatible with the MSA 161 T
- Chainsaw Guide Bars – 30 cm bars for this model
- AP System Batteries and Chargers – AP 200 and AP 300 options for this model
- Arborist PPE – chainsaw helmet, climbing gloves, chainsaw trousers and boots for compliant aerial work
FAQs
How does the MSA 161 T compare to the MSA 190 T?
The MSA 190 T delivers 1.20 kW versus the MSA 161 T's lower output, runs at 20 m/s chain speed versus 16 m/s, and accepts 30–35 cm bars. The MSA 161 T is lighter at 2.1 kg versus 2.6 kg and better suited to precision fine pruning. For general arborist climbing work, the MSA 190 T is the more versatile option.
Does the MSA 161 T come with a battery and charger?
No — it is sold as a body-only tool. AP System batteries and chargers are available separately at Gustharts.
What is the runtime on the MSA 161 T?
Up to 42 minutes with the AP 200 battery, or up to 50 minutes with the AP 300 battery.
What chain does the MSA 161 T use?
The MSA 161 T uses a 30 cm (12") bar with ¼" STIHL PICCO PM3 chain. Replacement chains are stocked at Gustharts.
Is the MSA 161 T suitable for homeowners?
No — it is a professional top-handle climbing saw for trained arborists only. For domestic garden use, a rear-handle battery saw such as the STIHL MSA 80 C-B is the appropriate choice.
| Power Source | 36 V (AP System) |
|---|---|
| Powerhead Weight | 2.1 kg |
| Guide Bar Length | 30 cm (12") |
| Chain Pitch | ¼" STIHL PICCO PM3 |
| Chain Speed | 16 m/s |
| Chain Oil Capacity | 105 ml |
| Runtime (AP 200) | Up to 42 minutes |
| Runtime (AP 300) | Up to 50 minutes |
| Power | 1 kW |
| Length with bumper strike | 306 mm |
| Sound pressure level | 83 dB(A) |
| Sound power level | 94 dB(A) |
| Vibration levels left/right | 2.1/2.2 m/s² |
| Saw chain pitch | 1/4"P |
| Recommended battery | AP 200, AP 300 |
| Battery working time AP 300 S (Power level 1) | up to 62 min |
| Battery working time AP 500 S (Power level 1) | up to 74 min |
| Battery working time AR 2000 L (Power level 1) | up to 195 min |
| Battery working time AR 3000 L (Power level 1) | up to 300 min |
| Battery system | AP |
| IPX Rating | IPX4 |
Downloads
MSA 161 T ManualSTIHL MSA 161 T Top-Handle Cordless Chainsaw – Lightweight Battery Arborist Saw
The STIHL MSA 161 T is a lightweight battery-powered top-handle chainsaw designed for professional arborists and tree surgeons. At just 2.1 kg powerhead weight on the 36 V AP System, it is the lightest cordless top-handle in the STIHL AP range, running a 30 cm (12") bar with ¼" STIHL PICCO PM3 chain at 16 m/s chain speed. Runtime of up to 42 minutes with the AP 200 battery, or up to 50 minutes with the AP 300 battery. Gustharts is an authorised STIHL dealer.
Important: Top-handle chainsaws are approved for trained professional arborists working at height only. They must not be operated by untrained users or used as a ground-based rear-handle saw.
Key Features
- 2.1 kg Powerhead Weight – Lightest cordless top-handle in the STIHL AP range; exceptional balance and manoeuvrability for precision aerial work.
- Commercial-Grade Brushless Electric Motor – Consistent cutting speed and efficiency with reduced maintenance versus brushed motors.
- 30 cm (12") Bar with ¼" PICCO PM3 Chain – Fine-pitch chain for smooth, clean cuts in precision pruning and in-tree maintenance.
- 16 m/s Chain Speed – Efficient cutting performance for arborist applications.
- Instant Start – No pull-cord starting; instant on at trigger press — useful for quick task transitions when climbing.
- Quiet Operation – Significantly lower noise than petrol equivalents; ideal for noise-restricted urban tree work.
- Trigger Side-Lock Button and Large Throttle Interlock Lever – Safety features to prevent accidental starts during climbing and repositioning.
- Carrying Ring – Secure harness attachment point for aerial use.
- Ematic Lubrication System – Reduces bar oil consumption by up to 50%.
Why Choose the STIHL MSA 161 T?
The MSA 161 T is the entry point into the STIHL AP cordless top-handle range and the lightest option in the battery arborist lineup at 2.1 kg. For arborists doing extended precision pruning sessions where fatigue management is the priority, or working in noise-sensitive environments where a petrol saw is impractical, the MSA 161 T delivers a comfortable, quiet and clean experience. Its 16 m/s chain speed and ¼" PICCO chain are well-matched to fine pruning and detailed in-tree work. Arborists needing more power for larger cuts should step up to the MSA 190 T or MSA 220 T.
Complete Your Kit
- Replacement Chainsaw Chains – ¼" PICCO PM3 chains compatible with the MSA 161 T
- Chainsaw Guide Bars – 30 cm bars for this model
- AP System Batteries and Chargers – AP 200 and AP 300 options for this model
- Arborist PPE – chainsaw helmet, climbing gloves, chainsaw trousers and boots for compliant aerial work
FAQs
How does the MSA 161 T compare to the MSA 190 T?
The MSA 190 T delivers 1.20 kW versus the MSA 161 T's lower output, runs at 20 m/s chain speed versus 16 m/s, and accepts 30–35 cm bars. The MSA 161 T is lighter at 2.1 kg versus 2.6 kg and better suited to precision fine pruning. For general arborist climbing work, the MSA 190 T is the more versatile option.
Does the MSA 161 T come with a battery and charger?
No — it is sold as a body-only tool. AP System batteries and chargers are available separately at Gustharts.
What is the runtime on the MSA 161 T?
Up to 42 minutes with the AP 200 battery, or up to 50 minutes with the AP 300 battery.
What chain does the MSA 161 T use?
The MSA 161 T uses a 30 cm (12") bar with ¼" STIHL PICCO PM3 chain. Replacement chains are stocked at Gustharts.
Is the MSA 161 T suitable for homeowners?
No — it is a professional top-handle climbing saw for trained arborists only. For domestic garden use, a rear-handle battery saw such as the STIHL MSA 80 C-B is the appropriate choice.
| Power Source | 36 V (AP System) |
|---|---|
| Powerhead Weight | 2.1 kg |
| Guide Bar Length | 30 cm (12") |
| Chain Pitch | ¼" STIHL PICCO PM3 |
| Chain Speed | 16 m/s |
| Chain Oil Capacity | 105 ml |
| Runtime (AP 200) | Up to 42 minutes |
| Runtime (AP 300) | Up to 50 minutes |
| Power | 1 kW |
| Length with bumper strike | 306 mm |
| Sound pressure level | 83 dB(A) |
| Sound power level | 94 dB(A) |
| Vibration levels left/right | 2.1/2.2 m/s² |
| Saw chain pitch | 1/4"P |
| Recommended battery | AP 200, AP 300 |
| Battery working time AP 300 S (Power level 1) | up to 62 min |
| Battery working time AP 500 S (Power level 1) | up to 74 min |
| Battery working time AR 2000 L (Power level 1) | up to 195 min |
| Battery working time AR 3000 L (Power level 1) | up to 300 min |
| Battery system | AP |
| IPX Rating | IPX4 |
Downloads
MSA 161 T ManualSTIHL Warranty
STIHL offer a 1 year professional warranty or 2 year domestic warranty with all of their machines.
The following exceptions apply:
- AK System, AS System and AI Line cordless products aren't covered under warranty when used by professionals
- AP System machines, batteries and chargers - 2 year professional warranty
- Pressure washers - 2 year professional warranty or 3 year domestic warranty
- Mowers, tillers, shredders, scarifiers & iMOW machines - See STIHL's website here
Extend your Stihl warranty by an additional year when purchasing a STIHL Smart Connector with selected machinery from the petrol and cordless range. Extends your petrol warranty from 1 to 2 years AND 2 to 3 years on select cordless tools.
STIHL offer a 1 year professional warranty or 2 year domestic warranty with all of their machines.
The following exceptions apply:
- AK System, AS System and AI Line cordless products aren't covered under warranty when used by professionals
- AP System machines, batteries and chargers - 2 year professional warranty
- Pressure washers - 2 year professional warranty or 3 year domestic warranty
- Mowers, tillers, shredders, scarifiers & iMOW machines - See STIHL's website here
Extend your Stihl warranty by an additional year when purchasing a STIHL Smart Connector with selected machinery from the petrol and cordless range. Extends your petrol warranty from 1 to 2 years AND 2 to 3 years on select cordless tools.
Delivery Information
UK Delivery
Fast, reliable delivery from our UK warehouse.
- FREE UK Standard Delivery
applies to eligible UK orders over £75 ex VAT.
Estimated delivery: 2–4 working days
- UK Standard Delivery from £3.60 + VAT
Estimated delivery: 2–4 working days
- Next Working Day Delivery – £6.00 + VAT
Order before 3:00pm (Monday–Friday) for next working day delivery
All UK orders are dispatched Monday–Friday and sent via a tracked courier service.
International Delivery
We ship worldwide from the UK.
- Europe from £10.00 - Estimated delivery: 2–7 working days
- Rest of the World from £12.00 - Estimated delivery: 2–11 working days
Shipping costs and delivery times are calculated at checkout based on destination and order contents.
Customs, Duties & Taxes
International orders may be subject to local import duties, taxes, or customs charges.
When UPS is selected at checkout, applicable duties and taxes are included in the total price. For other shipping services, duties and taxes may be charged separately on delivery and are the responsibility of the recipient.
Customs processing times may affect delivery estimates.
Returns
30-Day Return Policy
- Items can be returned within 30 days of delivery
- Products must be unused and in original condition
- Return postage costs apply unless the item is faulty or incorrect
For full details, please visit our Shipping & Returns page.
UK Delivery
Fast, reliable delivery from our UK warehouse.
- FREE UK Standard Delivery
applies to eligible UK orders over £75 ex VAT.
Estimated delivery: 2–4 working days
- UK Standard Delivery from £3.60 + VAT
Estimated delivery: 2–4 working days
- Next Working Day Delivery – £6.00 + VAT
Order before 3:00pm (Monday–Friday) for next working day delivery
All UK orders are dispatched Monday–Friday and sent via a tracked courier service.
International Delivery
We ship worldwide from the UK.
- Europe from £10.00 - Estimated delivery: 2–7 working days
- Rest of the World from £12.00 - Estimated delivery: 2–11 working days
Shipping costs and delivery times are calculated at checkout based on destination and order contents.
Customs, Duties & Taxes
International orders may be subject to local import duties, taxes, or customs charges.
When UPS is selected at checkout, applicable duties and taxes are included in the total price. For other shipping services, duties and taxes may be charged separately on delivery and are the responsibility of the recipient.
Customs processing times may affect delivery estimates.
Returns
30-Day Return Policy
- Items can be returned within 30 days of delivery
- Products must be unused and in original condition
- Return postage costs apply unless the item is faulty or incorrect
For full details, please visit our Shipping & Returns page.

