First hitting the market in 1965, the Solo 630 was part of a new wave of compact, easy-to-handle chainsaws aimed at homeowners and small-scale users.
Built by Solo in West Germany, the 630 featured a 50 cc two-stroke engine producing around 3 horsepower—just enough for tasks like pruning, limbing, and cutting small logs. Weighing only 14.5 pounds, it stood out for its bright blue plastic housing over a magnesium case, and its simple, no-frills design.
Though not built for heavy-duty logging, the 630 was a perfect fit for the growing consumer market of the mid-1960s. Today, it’s a favorite among collectors thanks to its clean design, light weight, and vintage German engineering.
The saw pictured here was listed and sold on eBay by our favorite seller, szabsa76. See his other listings for more stunning vintage chainsaws.
The eBay listing description for this saw:
Vintage Solo 630 (60130) rare chainsaw for sale
For lovers and collectors of German Solo saws, I offer a 630, 60130 chainsaw in good condition and in good working order. With original new 15 in Solo sword. Year of manufacture 1965. 50 cc, 3 PH.
It starts easily and works well, but because it is 60 years old, I do not recommend it for daily use.
I undertake international shipping, also to the USA!
I am happy to answer any questions.
The Solo 630 represented a transitional phase in chainsaw design.
It sits between the all-metal beasts of the 1950s and the fully plastic, high-RPM consumer saws of the 1970s. While its engine internals and frame were still built tough, its bright blue plastic styling signaled the changing times.
In Solo’s lineup, it followed the slightly more powerful Solo 50 (which had nearly identical specs but a red casing) and preceded updated models like the Solo 632.
Compared to its contemporaries, such as the STIHL S-10 (introduced in 1968 with a 56 cc engine and 3.4 hp), the Solo 630 was lighter, a bit less powerful, but more accessible for casual users.
The Solo 630 feels very manageable in the hands, especially for trimming overhead branches or working in tight spaces.
It’s quick to rev, and while it lacks torque for large felling jobs, it’s more than capable of handling small to medium tasks around the property.
The diaphragm carburetor with manual choke keeps cold starts simple, and the automatic oiler ensures the bar and chain stay lubricated with minimal fuss.
Like most saws of this era, the 630 doesn’t idle the chain fully still, so operators needed to stay alert.
Overall, the 630 balanced performance and portability—prioritizing ease of use over raw cutting power. It was never marketed as a professional-grade machine, but it hit the mark for its target users.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Solo Kleinmotoren GmbH, Stuttgart, West Germany |
| Model | Solo 630 |
| Production Year | Introduced in 1965 |
| Engine Type | 2-stroke, piston-ported |
| Displacement | 50 cc (3.05 cu in) |
| Power Output | ~3 hp (approx. 3.5 DIN HP) |
| Fuel Mix Ratio | Typically 25:1 (vintage 2-stroke standard) |
| Carburetor | Diaphragm type with manual choke |
| Starter System | Solo recoil starter (“automatic rewind”) |
| Clutch | Centrifugal |
| Chain Type | 3/8″ pitch, low profile |
| Bar Length (Standard) | 15″ standard; compatible with 16–18″ bars |
| Guide Bar Mount | Solo proprietary |
| Chain Oil System | Automatic oil pump |
| Handle Type | One-piece rigid handlebar |
| Chain Brake | None |
| Ignition System | Mechanical points (pre-electronic ignition era) |
| Air Filter | Mesh/screen type |
| Weight (Powerhead Only) | 14.5 lbs (6.6 kg) |
| Housing Material | Magnesium core with plastic covers |
| Color Scheme | Bright blue plastic housing |
| Use Case | Consumer-grade: pruning, limbing, small logs |
Today, the Solo 630 holds real appeal among collectors of vintage European saws.
Its bright color, clean lines, and modest size make it an eye-catching piece—especially when found with its original 15″ Solo bar and chain. Few were exported outside Germany, and even fewer have survived in good condition.
Collectors value it not just for its rarity but for what it represents: mid-century German engineering applied to the growing DIY and small-farm market. With basic maintenance, many of these saws can still be started and used today, a testament to their simple, reliable design.
As for price, the saw pictured here sold for US $300.00 in June 2025.
See these other vintage chainsaws listed by Alex (szabsa76):
