We just came across this incredible German surplus listing for five STIHL 045 AVEK 3 chainsaw power units, all being sold together as a single lot. They are currently stored at the Bundeswehr’s eastern depot in Zeithain, Germany, and appear to be genuine former German military equipment.
The listing is being handled by VEBEG, a German government-owned organization that sells surplus equipment on behalf of the Bundeswehr and other public agencies. For non-German readers, it is roughly comparable to a federal government-surplus disposal service rather than an ordinary auction house. VEBEG was established in 1951 and has handled the disposal of German Armed Forces surplus since 1957.
Although these saws carry the 045 AVEK 3 designation, they should not be confused with the regular civilian STIHL 045. The AVEK models were special Bundeswehr chainsaws, and collectors interpret AVEK as referring to anti-vibration, electronic ignition and a chain brake—“Kettenbremse” in German. The AVEK 3 was the third major version and is generally regarded as the military equivalent of the civilian STIHL 064 AV EQ, while the earlier AVEK 1 and AVEK 2 models were based on older STIHL designs.
VEBEG describes the lot as five STIHL 045 AVEK 3 power units, each rated at 4.8 kW and 7,500 rpm, for chainsaws with a 500 mm cutting length, or approximately 20 inches. The wording “power units” may mean that only the chainsaw bodies are guaranteed to be included, so the listing does not make it completely clear whether all five saws come with bars, chains, or other accessories.
The lot number is 2634170.009, and bidding closes at 1:00 p.m. German time on August 17, 2026. The saws can only be inspected on August 10, between 9:30 a.m. and noon or 12:30 and 3:00 p.m., with entry permitted no later than 2:00 p.m. An appointment must be arranged in advance, and valid identification is required.
The listing does not state whether the saws run or provide individual production years or serial numbers. VEBEG also warns that surplus technical equipment may need to be repaired or reconditioned before being put back into service. German VAT will be added to the winning bid, and any pallets or other storage equipment at the depot remain government property.
Whatever their condition, finding five ex-Bundeswehr STIHL 045 AVEK 3 saws in one place is highly unusual. For a military equipment collector or serious STIHL enthusiast, this could be one of the most interesting chainsaw surplus listings to appear in some time.
