can the Stihl MS291 handle 3/8 Chain

[9oldenSaw]

planning to snag a couple of Stihl MS291 saws for Christmas presents!
I was wondering if anyone has upgraded one of these to a 3/8 chain with a 0.050 gauge?
Specifically, how well does the MS291 perform as a firewood saw out here in the Pacific Northwest when pulling a 3/8 full comp chisel chain? Is it worth the upgrade?

 

[hunting1]

I can't remember if 029s came new with .325 25 years ago but if they did, I've probably converted 50 of them to 3/8. Not sure if Stihl considered that a home use standard to put them out that way but it was generally considered a step up to convert to 3/8, more of a professional use upgrade. They handle it just fine on an 18" bar. And thats on predominantly hardwoods in the Midwest.

 

[MidlifeMoto]

yep,no problem swapping over to that setup on a 291. go for it!

 

[Alan]

That’s good to hear. Sounds like the 291 will handle it just fine.

 

[Paul]

It will handle it , of course. Once again we’re trying to reinvent the wheel.
Standard.325 pitch chain has a lower profile, takes less kerf therefore should cut a bit faster. If you’re intent on going 3/8, try Stihl’s 3/8 PS chain. It’s full chisel and Lo profile.
I even run it on my 034 super.

 

[Alan]

Solid point, keeping it simple makes the choice clear.

 

[STIHLTECH]

Will it run it? Yes.
Should you run it? Only if you never run dull and do not lower the rakers beyond spec.

But no one ever does that, Right?

 

[Apex22]

You make a solid point there. It's a great reminder that we need to keep things sharp to ensure the upgrade is really worth it.