As with all chainsaws that have a long production run, there are several different versions of the 61.5 cc Husqvarna 61 Chainsaw.
The 61 entered production in 1978 and was still being made up until 1997.
Different versions are designated by the different top cover colors and serial number tags:
- the 61 white top was the first
- followed by the 61 grey/black top
- and then the 61 with an orange top
You can check the production date from Husqvarna serial tags which also often have the location they were manufactured.
Images from eBay seller Sherman Saw Parts are used with permission. The orange top 61 was listed for US $399.99, while the white top was listed for US $449.99.
Husqvarna 61 Versions
Orange top Husqvarna 61s are the newer models, and there are other differences.
In the Husqvarna Chainsaw FB group, Jason said:
White top is early, metal flag.
Grey/black is next plastic flag.
Orange is on the 268/272 single coil case design, Slovenian/Brazil.
To which Evan replied:
Grey tops came with both metal and later, plastic flags.
There were grey top single coil saws, and white tops based on the 266 cover, not just the 162 cover, and there were Swedish built single coil 61s just to muddy the waters.
Prior to 1991, Slovenia was part of Yugoslavia, so you see tags with Tomos, Yugoslavia on them as well. And of course, the 543 XP is made in Japan(Zenoah/Redmax based).
Derek shared:
There are lots of subtle differences [between models with different top covers].
The covers do not interchange between white and orange, the coils are different, the carbs are different, the clutch threads on the crankshaft are different, to name a few.
For the most part, the different color top covers just reflect the different dates and location of production.
We share a bit more about this in our Husqvarna 50 white top review and Husqvarna 40 black top review.
The other label or designation on this white top 61 is ‘practica’.
Sometimes this was just a sticker, but other times it’s actually on the tag itself. Even more rare is ‘practica’ as part of the plastic on the clutch cover.
What does practica mean?
It was just a marketing label that didn’t designate any special specs or features, and which was dropped.
The term ‘practica’ generally refers to practices or practical applications in various fields. It is derived from Latin and is often used in the context of education, training, or the application of theoretical knowledge in a practical setting.
In the specific context of the Husqvarna 61 chainsaw, ‘Practica’ was used as a model name or designation, implying its practicality, reliability, and suitability for everyday, practical tasks.
It’s a practical 61 cc chainsaw for firewood, yard clean up, and those sorts of tasks. It’s a reasonably powerful chainsaw that is good for a bit of everything!
Husqvarna 61 Rancher
Early on, there was also a Husqvarna 61 Rancher.
The specs for the Rancher versions are a bit different from the later versions.
| Model | 61 | 61 Rancher |
| Years Made | 1980 – 1997 | 1978 – unknown |
| Displacement | 61.5 cc / 3.75 cu in | 61.5 cc / 3.75 cu in |
| Power | 4.1 hp / 2.9 kW | 3.6 hp /2.6 kW |
| Bore | 48 mm / 1.89 in | 48 mm / 1.89 in |
| Stroke | 34 mm / 1.34 in | 34 mm / 1.34 in |
| Weight | 5.8 kg / 12.8 lbs | Unknown |
The Rancher version is said to have a little less power than the 61s, but it’s frequently debated in online forums and groups.
Like ‘practica’, ‘Rancher’ is generally a marketing term that is applied to Husqvarnas mid-range saws for farms and ranches. They are good firewood saws for home collection.
Other versions include the 55 Rancher or more modern 460 Rancher.
Husqvarna 61 Reviews
Husqvarna 61s are considered to be excellent chainsaws and they hold onto their value well.
Earlier models that are in great condition are highly sought after and easy to sell. Even though some parts for the older versions are hard to find, people still love collecting them.
Robert said:
61 Best mid range saw ever made few simple problems as they get older fuel lines choke lever av rubbers but apart from that a very tough durable saw.
Chris said:
I have one, built in 78. Thing runs like a champ. I prefer it over my newer saw (450 rancher). They last for a long time.
Chad said:
Good little saws for small stuff. I have a few 61s, most of mine are white tops, except for a grey top I got this spring.
James said:
Fantastic saw, rock solid. Very strong bottom ends too. They are a phenomenal firewood saw.
William said:
Great saws. My uncle bought one new back in late 80s. Still running today. Has cut a ton of firewood.
Brian said:
My 61 sat for many years unused! Started right up and went onto its chore, rescuing another stuck saw! NOW, I plan on keeping it in use! I had forgotten how well it cuts!
Garry said:
I picked up a couple of 61s a while back, they are great little power houses, very easy to work on also…
Tristan said:
Love the old 61s but my 550 xp mk 2 makes them feel like slow motion even my 359 is no comparison.
TJ said:
The 61 is probably my favorite saw to run.
It’s not overly aggressive but will settle into a good speed and cut. No bells and whistles but gets the job done.
Crìsdean said:
Had 3, a white top Practica, an ex Swedish military and a late model. Solid saw. Doesn’t really stand up to modern pro XP saws. But a very solid if heavy saw. Loved mine.
Randy said:
I seriously think the 61s are the best saws. Easy to work on and fun to run. Still feels like saw. My other fav is the 346 xp.
Tomás said:
This old 61 of mine is a good saw. Its been very reliable and never been to repair shop since I bought it 2nd hand 5 years ago. I’ve cut tonnes of wood with it.
And a few shorter reviews:
- Jack said: “Bought one new in October ’93 and it still kicks ass after 27 years.”
- Will said: “Love mine. I think it would run underwater if necessary.”
- Keir said: “Bullet proof saws.”
- Ryan said: “Do the crank seals and run the guts out of it, they’re an awesome saw.”
- Bruce said: “I bought Rancher 61 in 1979 still runs great. Cut a lot of fire wood.”
- Kayne said: “I have a 460 and it’s a good saw but the 61 will eat that saw up for breakfast.”
- Brian said: “I have two white top 61s. Love them have run them my whole life.”
According to users, the 61 is an excellent all-around chainsaw for homeowners, homesteaders, and other light to medium users.
It’s hard to find any bad comments about this saw!
Specs And Features
| HUSQVARNA 61 | Details |
| Years Made | 1978 – 1997 |
| Engine Displacement | 61.5 cc (3.75 cu. in.) |
| Engine Power | 4.1 hp (2.9 kW) |
| Cylinder Bore | 48 mm (1.89 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 34 mm (1.34 in.) |
| Piston Ring Thickness | 1.5 mm |
| Cylinder Type | Aluminum with chrome plated bore |
| Intake Method | Piston ported |
| Weight | 5.8 kg (12.8 lbs.) |
| Handlebar System | Anti-vibration |
| Chain Brake | Inertia activated |
| Clutch | Centrifugal |
| Drive Type | Direct |
| Construction | Die-cast Magnesium, injection molded Polymer |
| Magneto Type | Electronic Electrolux ET |
| Carburetor | Tillotson HS-163A or Walbro WS series |
| Air Filter System | Nylon mesh cartridge |
| Oil Pump | Automatic |
| Maximum Engine RPM | 8,300 under load, 12,500 max |
| Idle RPM | 2,500 |
| Ignition Timing | fixed |
| Breaker Point Setting | none |
| Flywheel/Coil Air Gap | 0.30 mm (0.012 in.) |
| Spark Plug Type | Bosch WSR7F/WS7F, NGK BPMR7A, Champion RCJ7Y |
| Spark Plug Gap | 0.50 mm (0.020 in.) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 750 ml (25.3 fl. oz.) |
| Fuel Oil Ratio | 50:1 |
| Recommended Fuel Octane | Regular grade |
| Mix Oil Specification | Husqvarna mix oil |
| Chain Pitch | 3/8 in. |
| Chain Type | 73LG Oregon |
| Bar Mount Pattern | 17 link |
| Guide Bar Length | 40 cm (16 in.) – 60 cm (24 in.) |
Price And Parts
61s in good condition can fetch a surprisingly high price.
The two Husky 61s pictured throughout this article are for sale on eBay at the time of writing for $399 for the newer orange top version and $449 for the older white top.
The description on the white top:
Beautiful Husqvarna 61 One Owner All Original 61.5cc chainsaw! Runs, Oils, Idles, and cuts Great!
This was purchased by me from the original owner. These are hard to find in this condition.
The included bar and chain look to be in good condition. The chain has a fresh grind and is ready to cut.
The white top is not quite as bright as it shows up in the photos so please expect that when receiving the saw. Please feel free to ask any questions you may have.
The description on the orange top:
Beautiful Husqvarna 61 61.5cc chainsaw! Runs, Oils, Idles, and cuts Great!
It needs a new trigger luck spring but is still very usable. Everything else works as it should.
And they still cost about as much as a brand new 455 Rancher.
This shows the value people put on these old 61s, because they do sell for these prices.
Parts can be found through your local Husqvarna dealer, or:
Husqvarna FB groups are the best place to find hard-to-get parts for these old chainsaw models.
Bar And Chain
Bar Lengths
Some prefer a 16 to 18-inch bar for balance and manageability, particularly for lighter work. Others opt for a 20-inch bar for more substantial tasks, such as bucking larger logs.
Bar Types
Oregon bars are often recommended. The AdvanceCut bars (either .050″ or .058″ gauges) are considered good for occasional use, while the PowerCut bars with replaceable noses offer longer service life for heavy use.
These bars come in various lengths, from 16 inches to 24 inches and more, allowing flexibility based on the type of work you’re doing.
Chain Specifications
The chains should match the bar in terms of pitch and gauge. For example, a 3/8″ pitch and .063″ gauge are common for Husqvarna 61.
The exact chain model would depend on the bar you choose and the tasks you’ll be performing.
Husqvarna 61 Chainsaw
The Husqvarna 61 is a very good chainsaw for home-use tasks like cutting firewood, pruning trees, felling small trees, and other clean up tasks.
By all accounts, it is reliable and durable, and can be expected to perform highly for decades. However, one must keep in mind that even the newest of these saws is now quite old (unless it’s new in box), so buying one will require careful inspection.
Check out our tips for buying a second hand used chainsaw for ideas on what to check and what questions to ask sellers.
Let us hear about your experiences with the Husqvarna 61 in the comment section below!
