Stihl 271 vs Husqvarna 455: Reliable Choice for Tough Jobs

When it comes to Stihl 271 vs Husqvarna 455, both are trusted mid-size chainsaws. I’ve used each in real cutting jobs, from firewood to storm cleanup. Both models balance power and ease of use, but each has its own strengths.

After years of hands-on work, I can share what matters most when choosing between them. Let’s break it down in a simple way so you can decide which saw is the smarter choice for you.

Is the Stihl 271 Good?

Yes, the Stihl 271 is a solid pick if you need a mid-size chainsaw. It balances power, weight, and ease of use well. I’ve used it on hardwood and softwood. It handled both without feeling too heavy. With a 50.2 cc engine and 3.5 horsepower, it has enough power for firewood or land work. At the same time, it stays comfortable during longer use.

What stood out to me was how easy it feels to use. The flip-top fuel and oil caps open fast, even with gloves. The side chain tensioning also saves time. Both make maintenance simple compared to older saws.

The 2-Mix engine keeps emissions down but still runs strong. I’ve used it in hot and cold weather. Each time it started without much effort. For U.S. users, that helps when the weather changes a lot—you won’t waste time with a saw that refuses to start.

In short, the Stihl 271 is dependable, easy to handle, and fit for both casual and regular use.

What I Like

• Comfortable for long use
  At 12.3 lbs (powerhead only), it feels light enough to control. I’ve cut cords of firewood with it and did not feel worn out the way I have with heavier saws.
• Simple design
  I like the flip-top caps. They save time and help avoid spills. The side-access chain tensioning is also a nice touch. It makes tightening the chain quick and easy.
• Strong and durable
  The 2.6 kW (3.5 hp) engine has steady power. I’ve cut oak and hickory with no stalling. The saw feels tough and built to last. I’d rather invest once in a tool like this than keep replacing cheaper ones.

What Could Be Better

• Fuel cap quirks
  The flip-top caps are handy, but sawdust can cause issues. A few times mine didn’t close right, so I had to check for leaks.
• Not the lightest
  At just over 12 lbs, it’s not heavy. But some newer saws in this range weigh less. If you carry it all day, you’ll notice.
• Smaller engine than rivals
  The 50.2 cc engine works well, but the Husqvarna 455 runs at 55.5 cc. If you want max engine size in this class, the 271 is a little behind.

Recommendation

I recommend the Stihl 271 for homeowners, firewood cutters, and part-time pros. It’s a great choice if you want a saw that is easy to use, ergonomic, and reliable.

For U.S. buyers, this saw works well for seasonal firewood, property upkeep, and as a solid backup. If you’re in full-time tree work or cutting oversized hardwood every day, a larger saw may suit you better.

But if you’re like me—someone who wants a saw that starts fast, feels balanced, and cuts cleanly—the Stihl 271 is a strong choice.

Is the Husqvarna 455 Rancher Good?

Yes, the Husqvarna 455 Rancher is a strong gas chainsaw. It gives you plenty of power but is still simple to use. I’ve used it for firewood, storm cleanup, and cutting hardwood. It has no problem with bigger jobs.

The saw has a 55.5 cc engine with 3.5 horsepower. That is more than many mid-size saws. When I cut oak or maple, I notice the extra strength right away.

Starting the saw is easy. The Smart Start® system and decompression button help a lot. Even on cold mornings, it starts in just a few pulls. The X-Torq® engine uses less fuel and makes less smoke. That’s great when you cut for hours.

I also like the comfort. The front handle sits at a 7-degree angle. It feels natural in the hand. The LowVib® system cuts down on shake. My hands don’t buzz for hours after I’m done.

What I Like

• Plenty of power – The 55.5 cc engine makes tough cuts smooth. I’ve cut logs over 20 inches without slowing down.
• Easy start – The Smart Start® and primer bulb save time and effort. Even after weeks, it fires up fast.
• Comfortable to use – The offset handle feels right. The LowVib® design means less hand strain.
• Built to last – The oiler works well, and the saw feels solid. I’ve dropped it during storm work, and it kept running strong.

What Could Be Better

• Heavy for long jobs – At 13.2 pounds (without bar and chain), it can wear you down. Cutting overhead is tough.
• Cold starts take practice – On very cold days, it may need extra pulls. Not a big issue, but worth noting.
• Costs more than some saws – It is priced higher than many mid-range models.

Recommendation

The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is best for landowners and firewood cutters. If you often clean up storm damage or cut hardwood for heat, this saw is a good pick.

If you only cut a little wood each year, it may be more saw than you need. But if you want strong power, low fuel use, and a solid build, this saw is worth it.

It’s not the lightest or cheapest. But for me, it’s a tool I can trust.

Details Comparison: Stihl 271 vs Husqvarna 455

I’ve had the chance to use both the Stihl 271 and the Husqvarna 455 in real work. From cutting firewood to clearing storm damage, these saws have been part of my toolkit. Both have strengths, but they also differ in ways that matter depending on what you need. Here’s my honest take.

Feature	Stihl 271	Husqvarna 455	Winner
Engine Power	50.2 cc, 3.5 hp – smooth on mid tasks	55.5 cc, 3.5 hp – faster on big logs	Husky
Weight & Handling	12.3 lbs – lighter, better balance	13.2 lbs – heavier, less balance	Stihl
Starting System	Simple, reliable, few pulls	Smart Start® + decompression, easy cold starts	Husky
Comfort & Vibration	Ergonomic, easier to carry	LowVib®, less hand buzz	Husky
Durability	Compact, solid build	Rugged, strong oiler	Tie
Performance	Best for medium wood, smooth control	Best for large logs, more power	Husky
Ease of Use	Light, simple, good for beginners	More tech, bulkier	Stihl
Value for Money	Easy parts/service, strong support	More power for same price	Tie
Overall Score	8.5/10	9/10	Husky

Engine Power: Stihl 271 vs Husqvarna 455

The Stihl 271 runs on a 50.2 cc engine with 3.5 hp. The Husqvarna 455 has a 55.5 cc engine, also at 3.5 hp. On paper, the Husky has more displacement, which I noticed when pushing through thicker logs. The Stihl still cuts well but feels better for medium tasks.

My experience: When I cut oak rounds over 18 inches, the 455 powered through faster. For daily firewood cutting, the 271 felt smoother and easier to control.

• Stihl 271: 8/10
• Husqvarna 455: 9/10

Weight and Handling: Stihl 271 vs Husqvarna 455

The Stihl 271 weighs 12.3 lbs (powerhead only). The Husqvarna 455 comes in at 13.2 lbs. That extra pound may not sound like much, but I felt it after a long day. The Stihl feels lighter and more balanced for extended work.

My experience: If I had to cut above shoulder height, the Stihl was less tiring. But the Husky, while heavier, had slightly better vibration control.

• Stihl 271: 9/10
• Husqvarna 455: 8/10

Starting System: Stihl 271 vs Husqvarna 455

The Stihl uses a simple, reliable design. It usually fires up in a few pulls. The Husqvarna has Smart Start® and a decompression valve, which helps with easier cold starts. In cold U.S. winters, I found the Husky a bit more forgiving.

My experience: On a frosty morning, the 455 started quicker. But the 271 never failed me either, just took a pull or two more sometimes.

• Stihl 271: 8/10
• Husqvarna 455: 9/10

Comfort and Vibration: Stihl 271 vs Husqvarna 455

The Stihl has a good ergonomic design, with flip caps and side chain tensioning that make life easier. The Husqvarna, though heavier, uses LowVib® tech that really reduces hand fatigue. Both are comfortable, but in different ways.

My experience: After cutting a cord of wood, my hands buzzed less with the 455. But the 271 was easier to carry around all day.

• Stihl 271: 8/10
• Husqvarna 455: 9/10

Durability and Build Quality: Stihl 271 vs Husqvarna 455

Both saws are tough. The Stihl 271 feels solid and built to last years. The Husqvarna 455 also feels rugged, and its automatic oiler has been very consistent. I’ve dropped both, and neither gave me trouble.

My experience: I trust both brands for long-term use. The Stihl feels slightly more compact and protected, while the Husky feels more open but durable.

• Stihl 271: 9/10
• Husqvarna 455: 9/10

Performance: Stihl 271 vs Husqvarna 455

Performance-wise, the Husqvarna 455 has the edge for bigger jobs thanks to its larger engine. The Stihl 271 is better for moderate cutting, where balance and comfort matter more than brute force.

My experience: If I needed to clear storm-fallen trees, I reached for the Husky. For steady firewood cutting on weekends, I often grabbed the Stihl.

• Stihl 271: 8/10
• Husqvarna 455: 9/10

Ease of Use: Stihl 271 vs Husqvarna 455

The Stihl is easier to handle, lighter, and more straightforward. The Husqvarna has more tech in the starting system but is slightly bulkier. Both have pros here.

My experience: When teaching my brother to cut wood, I gave him the 271 first because it felt more intuitive. But once he got confident, he liked the 455’s power.

• Stihl 271: 9/10
• Husqvarna 455: 8/10

Value for Money: Stihl 271 vs Husqvarna 455

In the U.S., prices are close. Stihl parts and service are easier to find locally, which adds value. Husqvarna gives more power for the same money, which appeals if you cut big wood.

My experience: I found Stihl shops almost everywhere in my area. But the Husky gave me better speed on big jobs for the same price range.

• Stihl 271: 9/10
• Husqvarna 455: 9/10

Overall: Stihl 271 vs Husqvarna 455

Both saws are strong mid-range choices. The Stihl 271 shines in balance and ease. The Husqvarna 455 stands out with extra power and vibration control. Your choice depends on whether you want comfort or more muscle.

My experience: I use both, depending on the day. For long hours of moderate cutting, I take the Stihl. For storm cleanup or big logs, I grab the Husky.

• Stihl 271: 8.5/10
• Husqvarna 455: 9/10

FAQs for Stihl 271 vs Husqvarna 455

What are the main differences between Stihl 271 and Husqvarna 455?

The Stihl 271 is lighter and easier to handle, while the Husqvarna 455 has more engine power. Both are strong mid-range saws but suit different needs.

Which chainsaw is better for firewood cutting?

The Husqvarna 455 handles larger logs thanks to its 55.5 cc engine. The Stihl 271 is easier to use for smaller loads, making it a better fit for casual cutters.

Is the Stihl 271 or Husqvarna 455 easier to start?

Both have easy-start systems, but Husqvarna’s Smart Start® makes cold starts simpler. The Stihl 271 still starts well with its reliable design.

Which chainsaw is more comfortable for long use?

The Stihl 271 is lighter at 12.3 lbs, so it feels easier to handle over time. The Husqvarna 455 has more vibration control, reducing hand fatigue.

Which one offers better value in the USA?

In the USA, prices are close, but parts and service for Stihl are more common. Husqvarna gives more power for the money, making it great for heavy jobs.