• Largest, Most Powerful Saw - With its updated engine design and up to 41” guide bar length, the MS 881 is the largest, most powerful chainsaw in the STIHL lineup.
• Greater Fuel Efficiency & Reduced Exhaust Emissions - The MS 881 MAGNUM® has the same power as the previous model while using less fuel and reducing exhaust emissions, saving time and money while also being better for the environment.
• Ematic™ Lubrication System - The Ematic™ guide bar, when used with STIHL OILOMATIC® saw chain, will provide proper lubrication and less oil consumption than conventional methods. The system works because two ramps, strategically placed in the guide bar rail, help contain the flow of oil and direct all lubrication to the sliding faces of the bar and chain links as well as the rivets and driver holes, which in turn can reduce bar oil consumption up to 50%.
• STIHL ElastoStart™ - The ElastoStart™ starter handle is an exclusive feature of STIHL. It is a starting grip with a built-in shock absorber that helps reduce the effort when pulling on the starter cord. The ElastoStart™ starter grip noticeably reduces the sudden peak forces (compression) normally felt during cranking. The forces which occur at the grip after the first compression stroke are smoothed out.
• HD2 Air Filter - The HD2 air filter on this unit is washable, providing extremely long filter life and lowering maintenance costs. The large surface area allows for longer run times between cleanings and high performance even while operating in dusty and dry conditions. Overall, the HD2 air filter provides better protection of the engine compared to standard air filters.
• IntelliCarb™ Compensating Carburetor - The IntelliCarb™ Compensating Carburetor is designed to automatically adjust the air/fuel ratio when the air filter becomes restricted or partially clogged and maintains the engine’s correct RPM. IntelliCarb™ uses air from the clean side of the air filter to control the diaphragm and flow of fuel. As the air filter becomes dirty and less air is available for the carburetor, the IntelliCarb™ system adjusts the fuel flow to compensate for the decrease in air flow. This is in contrast to typical carburetors that utilize this air from the “dirty” side of the air box.
• STIHL Quickstop® - STIHL chainsaws are equipped with a chain stopping system designed to reduce the risk of injury in certain kickback situations. It is called a STIHL Quickstop® chain brake. The STIHL Quickstop® chain brake is designed to stop the rotation of the chain if activated by the operator’s hand or by inertia if the saw kicks back with sufficient force. In some working positions, the STIHL Quickstop® chain brake can be activated by inertia, stopping the chain within fractions of a second.
• Efficient Stop Switch Technology - Efficient stop switch technology saves users time and reduces the chance of flooding the engine when starting.
• Easy Manual Adjustment of the Carburetor Settings - The simplified design of the carburetor allows for easy manual adjustment.
• Bumper Spikes - These spikes prevent pull-in and provide better control, making cutting easier.
• Lightweight Sprocket Cover with Captive Bar Nuts - The sprocket cover is lightweight and the captive bar nuts are held securely in place for efficient saw chain maintenance.
• Adjustable Automatic Oiler - The Adjustable Automatic Oiler allows the user to adjust the lubricant of the guide bar and saw chain for different bar lengths and cutting conditions.
• Decompression Valve - The decompression valve, also referred to as 'deco' or 'deco valve', vents compression in the cylinder for easier starting. The decompression valve temporarily reduces the compression in the combustion chamber during cranking and helps reduce the effort needed to pull the starter rope. It is opened manually and closes automatically as soon as the engine fires.
• Side-Access Chain Tensioner - The side-access chain tensioner makes it much more convenient for the user to adjust the saw chain with a bar wrench as opposed to the typical location of the guide bar adjustment screw.
• Master Control Lever™ - The Master Control Lever™ is an easy to use single lever, operating the choke, starting throttle lock, and on-off switch. The operator must pull the throttle trigger before moving the Master Control Lever™ to the choke position.
• Anti-Vibration System - STIHL has developed a system for minimizing the vibration levels of handheld outdoor power equipment. The STIHL anti-vibration system helps reduce operator fatigue and provides a more comfortable working experience.
• Toolless Fuel and Oil Caps with Retainers - Simply lift the lever and twist the caps to remove or tighten. There’s no need to use a tool to tighten or loosen.
• Throttle Trigger Lockout - This safety feature must be depressed before the trigger can be activated.
• Reduced-Emission Engine Technology—Caring for Nature - The STIHL Inc. “Caring for Nature” seal identifies its powered products that are more environmentally conscious, producing zero or low exhaust emissions. STIHL Inc. defines “low exhaust emissions” as being cleaner than EPA and/or CARB exhaust emission standards.

Note: STIHL recommends #3946 (46 RS 80) OILOMATIC® saw chain and 25” 3002 000 9731 Ematic™ guide bar combination. Compatible guide bar ranges: 21" to 41". The actual listed guide bar length can vary from the effective cutting length based on which powerhead it is installed on.