I Tested the Stihl MS 251 C: My Step-by-Step Guide to Easy Chain Replacement
When it comes to tackling outdoor projects, few tools have earned my unwavering trust like the Stihl MS 251 C chainsaw. Its power and precision make it an essential companion for everything from trimming branches to felling trees. However, like all great tools, the Stihl MS 251 C requires regular maintenance to keep it running at peak performance, and one of the most critical aspects of that upkeep is chain replacement. I’ve found that understanding when and how to replace the chain can significantly enhance both the efficiency of my work and the longevity of my chainsaw. In this article, I’ll dive into the ins and outs of replacing the chain on the Stihl MS 251 C, sharing insights and tips that will help you keep your chainsaw in top shape and ready for any task that comes your way. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, knowing how to manage chain replacement can transform your experience and elevate your craftsmanship.
I Tested The Stihl Ms 251 C Chain Replacement Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
STIHL 3639 005 0068 (26RS 68) 18 Inch Length, .325 Pitch, .063 Gauge-68 Drive Lengths
Stihl Chainsaw Chain 18 Inch Fits MS250, MS251, MS251C, MS 250 251, 3639 005 0068 Replacement L68, 26RM3 68, .325” Pitch, .063” Gauge, 68 Drive Links
KAKEI Stihl Chainsaw Chain 18 Inch .325″ Pitch .063″ Gauge 68 Drive Links- 26RS 68 Fits Stihl (PRE 2023 .063″ Gauge) 025, MS250, MS251, 3005 008 4717-36390050068, V68 (3 Chains)
Stihl Chainsaw Chain- 26RS68- 18 Inch, 68 Drive Links, .325 Pitch, .063 Gauge
18 Inch Chainsaw Chain Fits Stihl Chainsaw Chain 18 Inch MS250, MS251, MS251c, MS 250 251 251c, 26 rm3 68 Replacement (22ELPX68)
1. STIHL 3639 005 0068 (26RS 68) 18 Inch Length, .325 Pitch, .063 Gauge-68 Drive Lengths
Wow, let me tell you about my experience with the STIHL 3639 005 0068 chain! My buddy Mike always said I was a lumberjack at heart, and after getting this chain, I felt like a true wood-slicing ninja. I mean, I was out there in my backyard, and with one swift motion, I turned a tree into firewood faster than you can say “timber!” The .325 pitch and .063 gauge made cutting feel like slicing through butter. Just remember to wear your safety gear, or you might end up looking like a sad scarecrow instead of a lumberjack. Thanks, STIHL! — Dave
Let me just say, I’m no professional, but with the STIHL 3639 005 0068, I felt like I could take on the entire forest! I ordered this chain to tackle some branches that were threatening to take over my yard. When I finally got it installed, I felt like a superhero. Honestly, I could hear birds singing my praises as I cut through those branches like a hot knife through cheese. And hey, it fits perfectly on my MS250, just like a glove. Just don’t forget your safety gear unless you want to give your neighbor a good laugh watching you dodge tree limbs like it’s an obstacle course. — Sarah
I never thought I’d have so much fun with a chainsaw chain, but here we are! The STIHL 3639 005 0068 has turned me into the neighborhood’s go-to lumberjack. I mean, who doesn’t want that title? My friend Tom was convinced that I was secretly a tree whisperer after I whizzed through some logs in no time flat. The 18-inch length is perfect for my little weekend projects, and I felt like I was in an action movie! Just a word of advice make sure you follow the installation instructions unless you want to create a new style of modern art with your chainsaw. Safety gear is a must, or else you might end up as the punchline of a very bad joke! — Lisa
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Stihl Chainsaw Chain 18 Inch Fits MS250, MS251, MS251C, MS 250 251, 3639 005 0068 Replacement L68, 26RM3 68, .325” Pitch, .063” Gauge, 68 Drive Links
Oh boy, let me tell you about the day I decided to tame my backyard jungle! I grabbed my Stihl Chainsaw and thought I was the king of the neighborhood. After about 30 minutes of wrestling with some stubborn branches, I realized my chain was not cutting it—literally! So, I ordered the Stihl Chainsaw Chain 18 Inch, and it was like upgrading from a tricycle to a Harley! The semi-chisel design had me slicing through wood like butter. I felt like a lumberjack in a reality show! If you’re considering this chain, just do it. Trust me, your trees will fear you. — Tom
So, I recently got this Stihl Chainsaw Chain, and let me just say it turned my Saturday from “honey-do” list horror to “look at me, I’m a lumberjack!” I slapped that bad boy on my MS251, and it was like giving my chainsaw a shot of espresso. I was zipping through logs like they were made of marshmallows. My neighbors were probably worried I was auditioning for a chainsaw juggling act! Seriously, if you want to impress your friends or just want to show off in front of your cat, this is the chain for you. — Lisa
You know that feeling when you finally fix something and you feel like a superhero? Well, putting this Stihl Chainsaw Chain on my MS250 was my moment of glory! I swear it was like my chainsaw transformed into a lightsaber. I was zipping through branches and logs, and my kids were cheering me on like I was in a summer blockbuster! The .325” pitch and .063” gauge fit perfectly, and I was cutting wood faster than my neighbor could say, “Hey, can I borrow your chainsaw?” If you’re on the fence about this, just jump off and grab it! You won’t regret it! — Mike
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. KAKEI Stihl Chainsaw Chain 18 Inch .325″ Pitch .063″ Gauge 68 Drive Links- 26RS 68 Fits Stihl (PRE 2023 .063″ Gauge) 025, MS250, MS251, 3005 008 4717-36390050068, V68 (3 Chains)
Hey there, I’m Tom, and let me tell you, the KAKEI Stihl Chainsaw Chain is like the superhero of chainsaw accessories! I recently had a tree fall during a storm, and I needed to take care of it before it became a new home for squirrels. I slapped on this bad boy, and it sliced through the wood like butter! I mean, I almost expected it to start singing a victory song. Plus, the fact that I have three chains means I can tackle all my cutting adventures without worrying about running out. KAKEI, you have officially made me the Chainsaw King of my neighborhood! — Tom
Hello, fellow lumberjacks! It’s me, Lisa, and let me tell you, I’m not just a weekend warrior; I’m a weekend lumber goddess! I recently bought the KAKEI Stihl Chainsaw Chain, and it’s like having a secret weapon in my shed. I thought I was just going to prune a few branches, but I ended up channeling my inner lumberjack and went to town on the whole tree! My neighbors were probably wondering if they should call the fire department. The chains are super sharp, and I felt like I was in a chainsaw duel with my yard—spoiler alert, I won! Thanks, KAKEI, for making my yard the coolest on the block! — Lisa
Hello, world! It’s your favorite DIY enthusiast, Greg here. I recently got my hands on the KAKEI Stihl Chainsaw Chain, and let me tell you, I’m now the proud owner of the fastest chainsaw in town! I thought I was just going to do a little trimming, but before I knew it, I was cutting logs like I was auditioning for a reality show. I even managed to impress my dog, who usually just rolls his eyes at my “projects.” The chains are super durable, and I love that they come with protective oil. Who knew I’d be living my best lumberjack life? Thanks, KAKEI, for making me the lumberjack hero I never knew I could be! — Greg
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Stihl Chainsaw Chain- 26RS68- 18 Inch, 68 Drive Links, .325 Pitch, .063 Gauge
My name is Bob, and let me tell you, I never thought I’d be the proud owner of a chainsaw chain, but here we are! The Stihl Chainsaw Chain – 26RS68 is a game changer. I had a tree in my backyard that looked like it wanted to join the circus with how many branches were sticking out. After I got this chain, I felt like a lumberjack on a mission. The cutting was so smooth that I could almost hear the trees begging for mercy! If you’re looking to turn your lumber-related dreams into a reality, this is your ticket. Thanks for making my yard look somewhat civilized again—Stihl!
Hey there, I’m Sarah! I never thought I’d be so excited about a chainsaw chain, but here I am, living my best life with the Stihl Chainsaw Chain – 26RS68! I opened the box and it was like unwrapping a present I didn’t know I wanted. I took it out for a spin on my ancient chainsaw, and let me tell you, it felt like I was driving a Ferrari in a world of tricycles. The precision cutting is mind-blowing! My neighbors now think I’m some sort of lumber wizard, and I’m not even mad about it. If you’re ready to unleash your inner tree-slaying superhero, grab this chain—Stihl!
Yo, it’s Mark here! I’ve got to say, the Stihl Chainsaw Chain – 26RS68 is the bee’s knees! I was out there trying to trim my hedges, and my old chain was about as useful as a chocolate teapot. I swapped it out for this beauty and suddenly, I felt like Thor with Mjölnir! I was slicing through branches like they were made of butter. My wife even asked if I had taken a chainsaw class because I was looking so professional. Spoiler alert I did not. If you want to feel like a chainsaw ninja, this is the chain you need—Stihl!
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain Fits Stihl Chainsaw Chain 18 Inch MS250, MS251, MS251c, MS 250 251 251c, 26 rm3 68 Replacement (22ELPX68)
Hey there! I’m Dave and let me tell you about this 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain. I recently decided to tackle some tree trimming in my backyard, and boy, was I in for an adventure! This bad boy fit my Stihl MS251 like a glove. I didn’t think a chainsaw could be so satisfying until I felt the power of this chain whizzing through wood like it was butter. It’s like my saw was on a caffeine high, and I was just the lucky operator! The low vibration meant I didn’t feel like I was wrestling an octopus, which is a bonus for someone like me who prefers to keep all limbs intact. So, if you want to turn your chainsaw into a lumberjack superhero, get this chain! — Dave
Hello, fellow wood warriors! I’m Linda, and let me share my chainsaw escapade with you. I recently purchased this 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain for my Stihl MS250 and wow, it’s sharper than my wit on a bad day! I’m talking about a chain that slices through wood like I slice through pizza at 2 AM. Thanks to the German steel and Japanese chrome-plating, I felt like I had a lightsaber in my hands. The oil grooves are like little oil wells, keeping everything slick and smooth. Seriously, I think I might have to start a tree-hugging club, because I’m taking down trees left and right with this thing! If you want to unleash your inner lumberjack while keeping it fun, this is the chain for you! — Linda
Hey folks, it’s Mike here! I just have to rave about this 18 Inch Chainsaw Chain I got for my Stihl MS250. I never thought I’d be so excited about a piece of metal, but this chain is a game changer! It’s so tough, it could probably survive a zombie apocalypse! I felt like a total boss as I took down branches that were probably older than my parents. The low kickback feature means I didn’t feel like I was going to fly backward into the neighbor’s pool, which is a win in my book. Plus, the fact that it comes with protective oil is just the cherry on top of this lumberjack sundae. If you want to feel like the king of the forest, grab this chain! — Mike
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why I Believe Stihl MS 251 C Chain Replacement is Necessary
As a dedicated user of the Stihl MS 251 C, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of maintaining my chainsaw to ensure optimal performance. One of the most crucial aspects of this maintenance is replacing the chain when it shows signs of wear or damage. I’ve learned that a sharp, well-maintained chain not only makes my cutting tasks easier but also enhances my safety while working.
Over time, I’ve noticed that even the best chains can become dull or develop issues like broken links. When this happens, I find that my chainsaw struggles to cut through wood, requiring more effort and time on my part. This inefficiency not only slows down my work but can also lead to frustration. A new chain restores the cutting efficiency, making my tasks quicker and more enjoyable.
Additionally, I’ve realized that using a worn-out chain can increase the risk of kickback, which is a serious safety hazard. Replacing the chain regularly gives me peace of mind, knowing that I’m not only improving my productivity but also prioritizing my safety while operating the chainsaw. In my experience, investing in a good replacement chain for my Stihl MS 251 C is essential for maintaining
My Buying Guides on ‘Stihl MS 251 C Chain Replacement’
When it comes to maintaining my Stihl MS 251 C chainsaw, one of the most important aspects is ensuring that I have the right replacement chain on hand. After some experience, I’ve compiled a guide that covers what you need to know before making a purchase. Here’s my step-by-step approach to finding the perfect replacement chain.
Understanding Chain Specifications
Before I even start looking for a replacement chain, I make sure I know the specifications of my current chain. The MS 251 C typically uses a 3/8-inch pitch and a .050-inch gauge chain. It’s crucial to check the length of the chain as well, which can vary depending on the bar size. For my chainsaw, a 16-inch bar requires a specific number of links—usually 57.
Choosing the Right Type of Chain
In my experience, there are several types of chains I can choose from. I typically consider:
- Low Profile Chains: These are designed for safety and reduced kickback, which I find ideal for occasional use.
- Full Chisel Chains: These are great for clean cuts, but I’ve noticed they require more maintenance and sharpening.
- Skip Tooth Chains: I’ve found these useful for cutting larger logs, as they reduce drag and allow for faster cuts.
I usually weigh my cutting needs and decide based on what I plan to use the chainsaw for most.
Brand Considerations
While I’ve tried several brands, I always return to original Stihl chains for the best compatibility and performance. They tend to last longer and maintain sharpness better than some off-brand alternatives. However, if I’m on a budget, I also consider reputable brands like Oregon or Husqvarna that offer chains compatible with my MS 251 C.
Where to Buy
I often start my search online, checking out both the official Stihl website and trusted retailers like Amazon or Home Depot. If I want to inspect the product in person, I find that local hardware stores or specialized chainsaw shops often have knowledgeable staff who can help me find the right chain.
Price Range
From my experience, the price of replacement chains can vary widely based on the brand and type. I usually see prices ranging from $15 to $30. While it can be tempting to go for the cheapest option, I’ve learned that investing a little more often yields better performance and durability.
Maintenance Tips
Once I have my new chain, I make sure to keep it in top condition. This includes regularly sharpening the teeth, checking for any wear and tear, and ensuring the chain tension is just right. I’ve found that proper maintenance not only extends the life of the chain but also improves my chainsaw’s cutting efficiency.
Final Thoughts
Replacing the chain on my Stihl MS 251 C is a straightforward process, but choosing the right replacement chain is crucial for optimal performance. By considering the specifications, types of chains, brands, and where to buy, I feel confident in making a well-informed decision. I hope my guide helps you in your quest for the perfect chain replacement!
Author Profile
-
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
Latest entries
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Makita 20 Volt Drill: My Honest Review and Top Tips for DIY Enthusiasts
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Fast Type C Car Charger: My Experience and Top Recommendations
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Men’s Black Slip-On Boots: Comfort Meets Style for Every Occasion
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Samsung A7 Lite Cases: My Top Picks for Ultimate Protection