The Partner C6 is a classic Swedish chainsaw from the mid-1950s. Introduced in 1955 by Partner AB of Mölndal (then called El- & Motorverktyg AB), it was actually the first saw fully made by Partner in Sweden.
It directly competed with Stihl’s lightweight BLK model (introduced 1954), offering very similar specs: both had a 98cc two-stroke engine producing roughly 3–4 HP. In fact, the C6’s 98 cc engine was advertised at 4.25 Swedish horsepower (about 3.8 hp) – essentially the same power as the Stihl BLK’s 98 cc/3.5 hp setup.
This saw is listed for sale on eBay by Alex (seller ‘szabsa76’) for US $1,290.00. He’s based in Hungary but ships worldwide.
Partner C6 Chainsaw
The listing description on this saw states:
Vintage, rare Partner C6 chainsaw in working condition
I am offering for sale the rare and well-preserved Partner C6 vintage chainsaw shown in the photos. The saw is in excellent mechanical condition: it starts easily, the oiling works perfectly, and it comes with its original bar and chain.
Due to its age, I recommend it primarily for collectors rather than for everyday woodcutting.
The Partner C6 was a direct competitor to the Stihl BLK in the mid-1950s. Its design is very similar, featuring the same 98cc engine with a power output of 3.5 horsepower.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 98 cc (6.0 cu.in) 2‑stroke |
| Power | 3.5 HP (advertised 4.25 hkr) |
| Weight | 14.9 kg (32.8 lb) with fuel |
| Year introduced | 1955 |
| Manufacturer | El- & Motorverktyg AB (Partner AB), Mölndal, Sweden |
Compared to the Stihl BLK (98 cc, 3.5 hp, 11 kg), the C6 was a bit heavier but just as powerful. The metal ID badge on this surviving C6 (serial A5382) even reads “El- & Motorverktyg AB, Mölndal, Sweden” – the original name of the factory that became Partner.
In the 1950s the European market was buzzing with new one-man chainsaws. Stihl’s BLK was Europe’s first really lightweight saw, and Sweden’s Partner C6 arrived to match it. Both machines had nearly identical displacement and horsepower, but Partner offered additional versatility.
Like the Jonsered Raket (launched in 1954), the C6 was promoted as a multi-purpose power unit. Partner and Jonsered even highlighted a range of engine-driven attachments for their saws (e.g., clearing saw, drills, etc.), echoing the era’s “do-it-all” approach. This meant the C6 could be fitted with things like an outboard motor unit or earth drill kit, making it more than just a saw.
By the late 1950s, Partner would go on to develop more advanced models (like the R11 and R12), but the C6 holds its place as their debut chainsaw. It joined a competitive field of mid-century saws – aside from Stihl BLK and Jonsered’s Raket, other notable machines of the time included early Dolmar and Husqvarna models. The BLK’s 11 kg weight and 3.5 hp output gave the performance bar, and Partner answered that call with its 14.9 kg, 4.25 hkr C6.
The C6’s design had some unique touches for its day. It used a sand-cast magnesium crankcase (lightweight but prone to corrosion) and a bevel-gear drive to turn the bar.
Like the Stihl BLK, it had a reed-valve intake and a built-in automatic oiler (Simplex pump). Ignition was via a SEM magneto and Bosch plug (common for the era), with a recoil starter that used a steel-cable rewind. The handlebars were rigid (no anti-vibe springs) and, as typical then, there was no chain brake. The 45–56 cm guide bars took a standard 1/2″ pitch chipper chain.
One eye-catching feature is the paint: the C6 sported a bright Partner Yellow finish. This bold yellow (often compared to old Caterpillar equipment) was distinct on the 1950s saw scene. It’s now a signature look for collectors – the phrase “Partner Yellow” even turns up in vintage saw forums for touching up old paint.
A standout aspect of the C6 was its optional attachments. Partner offered a menu of accessories to hook up to the C6 powerhead:
- Clearing saw/brushcutter (for cutting underbrush)
- Outboard motor (boat engine)
- Cultivator (rotary tiller for soil)
- Earth drill (post-hole digger)
- Ice drill (auger)
- Water pump attachment
- Winch (small hoist)
These were promoted heavily in the 1950s as part of a “one engine, many jobs” philosophy.
Today the Partner C6 is mostly a collector’s item. Its bright yellow case and ’50s styling make it a favorite for vintage-saw enthusiasts. Restored C6s pop up occasionally on collector forums and auction sites.
Because it was only made briefly in the late 1950s, it’s quite rare – much rarer than a Stihl or Husqvarna of the same era. Fans note that finding original parts or manuals can be a challenge (most spares lists and kits are “nla” – no longer available).
That said, a well-restored C6 really stands out. The combination of sand-cast magnesium housing, rigid handlebars, and bold yellow paint gives it character. It also carries historical interest as “Sweden’s answer to the Stihl BLK” and the first true Partner-branded chainsaw. For anyone collecting mid-century chainsaws or vintage outdoor gear, the Partner C6 is a quirky, eye-catching piece of history.
Here are some other must-see Partners:
