Where Are Stihl Chainsaws Made?
In the field of power tools, particularly chainsaws, STIHL is a well-known brand. Have you ever wondered, though, where these high-quality chainsaws are produced? It’s natural to wonder where the things we use came from because so many corporations outsource production to foreign nations. If you’re looking to purchase a chainsaw, you should ensure that the product is dependable and of excellent quality. You can gain a better grasp of a product’s production process by learning where it was created.
We’ll delve deeper into the manufacturing process for STIHL chainsaws in this post, as well as what makes them unique from competing models. But first, let’s look more closely at the story of STIHL in order to comprehend the STIHL brand and its history.
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The STIHL Story: An Overview
In 1926, Andreas Stihl had a vision for powerful chainsaws for forestry workers. He opened his first factory in Bad Cannstatt, but after the war, he moved to Waiblingen, where the company is still based. STIHL trained apprentices in the 1930s and developed their first petrol-driven two-man chainsaw. But it wasn’t until 1959 that the STIHL Contra chainsaw revolutionized the industry.
Today, STIHL employs over 7,800 people and serves customers in more than 160 countries. Professionals and hobby gardeners worldwide choose STIHL for its excellence in products and craftsmanship.
Buckle up, because we are about to uncover the production locations where STIHL Chainsaws are made!
Where Are STIHL Chainsaws Made?
Stihl is a leading manufacturer of chainsaws, with production plants in several countries around the world. Stihl has been producing chainsaws for over 40 years and has sold over 50 million units during that time. As a market leader in chainsaw technology, the company is committed to quality and innovation.
Some of the parts and materials used in STIHL chainsaws are sourced from overseas, the chainsaws are made in the United States, Germany, and Switzerland with many of the components manufactured at the Virginia Beach plant. In the United States, most gas-powered Stihl products are finished at the company’s manufacturing plant in Virginia Beach.
This plant is highly automated and features many robots, enabling the production of high-quality chainsaws with a focus on innovation and safety.
Now, that we have some background on STIHL, let’s explore the manufacturing process.
STIHL Chainsaw Manufacturing – How It Works
A great saw chain is essential for a superior cutting experience. To ensure perfect harmony between the engine unit, guide bar, and saw chain, STIHL manufactures all its chain saws in-house. STIHL factories meticulously craft chainsaws by using state-of-the-art machinery and Swiss precision.
Here’s a breakdown of the six crucial steps in the manufacturing process:
Step 1: Quality Inspection of Rivet Bolts
They’re delivered on spools and go through a rigorous incoming goods inspection. Then they’re cold-formed to ensure uniformity.
Step 2: Quality Check and Production Approval
Saw chain parts, such as the cutter, connector, and drive link, are blanked from raw materials in the blanking shop using strip steel. Quality is of utmost importance at STIHL, and every employee is responsible for maintaining high standards.
Step 3: Hardening the Parts
The parts are then heated in a hardening furnace to strengthen them.
Step 4: Grinding the Cutters
After hardening, each cutter is ground individually using a specially developed in-house machine to ensure precise and consistent results.
Step 5: Assembly and Quality Assurance
During production, the chain components are meticulously cleaned and inspected. The parts are then ready for assembly, and quality checks are conducted at every stage.
Step 6: Packaging and Logistics
Once the chains are assembled, some are cut to length and packaged by a special machine before being shipped out. Others are stored in 100-foot rolls in the logistics building.
Take a look at STIHL chainsaws again if you think you know everything. Here’s what makes STIHL Chainsaws more in demand.
What Makes STIHL Chainsaws Stand Out?
Here are some qualities of STIHL Chainsaws;
- STIHL chainsaws are known for their durability and reliability.
- They are designed for both professional and homeowner use.
- STIHL chainsaws feature advanced engine technology, resulting in high power-to-weight ratios and reduced emissions.
- The brand offers a range of chainsaws powered by gasoline, electric, and battery.
- STIHL chainsaws are designed with user comfort in mind, featuring anti-vibration systems and ergonomic handles.
- The company provides extensive dealer support, including maintenance and repair services.
Popular USA-Made Models of STIHL Chainsaw
Pick #1 -MS 170: The MS 170 chainsaw is perfect for tackling woodcutting tasks at home. The engine produces 1.3 kW of power and is lightweight and easy to handle. It also comes equipped with a 16-inch guide bar and a chain pitch of 3/8 inch.
Pick #2 – MS 250: This chainsaw, MS 250, is perfect for taking on firewood cutting and various tasks around your home. Its exceptional power-to-weight ratio ensures you get the job done without feeling weighed down. It boasts a 45.4 cc engine with a power output of 2.2 kW, along with a 16-inch guide bar and a chain pitch of 3/8 inch.
Pick #3 – MS 271 FARM BOSS: With this powerful, fuel-efficient chainsaw you can fall trees, cut firewood, and tidy up after storms. It features a 50.2 cc engine with a power output of 2.6 kW, a 20-inch guide bar, and a chain pitch of 3/8 inch.
Pick #4 – MS 291: This chainsaw is a reliable option that sits in the middle of the range. It comes with an anti-vibration system to make it more comfortable to use. You’ll be able to go longer between refuels thanks to its fuel-efficient engine, which increases run time by 20% compared to the previous model. This chainsaw boasts a 55.5 cc engine that produces a power output of 2.8 kW, a 20-inch guide bar, and a chain pitch of 3/8 inch.
Wrap Up
STIHL chainsaws are made in several countries around the world, including the USA. Its commitment to quality and innovation has helped it become a market leader. STIHL chainsaws are known for their durability, reliability, and precision manufacturing process.
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