Stihl 026 Reviews, Specs, Features, Price, Parts, and Alternatives

The Stihl 026 was made between 1988 – 2002, while the 026 PRO was produced between 1996 – 2002 – we’ll get into the differences between the two.

Although the Stihl 026 is no longer in production, it is still a highly regarded chainsaw in the Stihl community. It’s a 48cc, 2.97hp chainsaw that is usually run with a 16 to 20-inch bar. It is suitable for processing firewood, dropping mid-sized trees, and clearing land.

Whether you’re using it at home, on the farm, or commercially, a Stihl 026 that has been looked after will be an excellent addition to your toolset.

When it was first sold back in the 90s, it was described as “A mid-range professional saw – heavy-duty saw that makes the work easier.” While they are no longer for sale new, you can often find them listed for sale on online marketplaces. Stihl 026 parts are also readily available.

Stihl 026 Chainsaw

Whereas the Stihl 026 is a good all-around chainsaw, you should note several things before purchasing one.

For starters, consider your needs.

If you go full lumberjack mode, a bigger and more powerful chainsaw will be better – you might even consider the new 500i. However, the Stihl 026 is an excellent option for farm, home, and light commercial use.

Secondly, remember that you will need to purchase it second-hand as it’s no longer in production. As such, you have to ensure the unit you are buying is still in good working condition and offers more value for your money.

Next, are you willing to work on it if needed?

Depending on how much it’s been used, the saw may need some work done. Whether it’s basic stuff like a new air filter or more significant work like a new piston and cylinder, keep in mind your mechanical abilities when buying an old saw.

Either way, the Stihl 026 is a very good saw that is highly respected in the chainsaw community and sought after, no matter the condition.

Versions

As with all STIHL chainsaws, there are a few versions.

• Stihl 026 – base model
• Stihl 026 C – includes a catalytic converter
• Stihl 026 Pro – decompression button and adjustable oiler
• Stihl 026 Arctic – heated handle

The main question that comes up is ‘What’s the difference between a 026 and an 026 Pro?’

There’s a good thread in the Stihl Fans FB group in which Brady shares:

The only difference is the adjustable oiler and decompression valve. All other differences in the 026/260 line were generational.

Things like an opaque or solid tank, compensating vs adjustable high jet carb, air filter size, etc. were due to design changes and are not a difference between the pro and “non-pro” 026s.

Both versions of the saw are Pro range chainsaws.

In another 026 thread, John shared:

Arguably the best Stihl saw built in the last 30 years. Power to weight ratio is great and will pull a 20″ bar all day long. Pro has an adjustable oiler and a compression release.

And Andrew said:

Great saw. 026 pro saws have an adjustable oiler, compensating carb, and decomp valve. All pointless marketing by Stihl.

Some Stihl saws, like the 015 have versions with larger bores or strokes, but that’s not what PRO is indicating on the 026. It’s the same with the MS260 and 260 Pro saws.

Specifications

You can compare the 026 with other chainsaws of its time in the chart above.

You can see that it’s more powerful than the Stihl 024 (41cc) but significantly less powerful than the 036 (61cc) or the 044 (70cc). It’s also a much more powerful chainsaw than the current Stihl MS180c – a homeowner or beginner-level saw.

Specs:

• 48.7cc engine
• 3.5 horsepower
• Best with a 16 – 20 inch bar
• 026 weighs 10.4 lbs (4.7 kgs); 026 PRO weighs 10.8 lbs (4.9 kgs)
• 1.73-inch (44 mm) bore
• 1.26-inch (32 mm) stroke
• Bosch WSR 6 F or NGK BPMR 7 A spark plug
• Electrode gap 0.5 mm (0.02 in)

Exact specs may vary depending on when and where your chainsaw was manufactured, and whether or not it’s had any aftermarket work done on it.

There are several notable features and benefits of the Stihl 026.

20-Inch Sprocket Nose Bar Full Comp Chain

For basic cutting needs, the 20-inch sprocket nose bar full comp chain is highly effective. However, that’s not all.

The teeth are squared, and there’s the minimal spacing between them. This feature adds to the efficiency and speed of the chainsaw’s cutting ability.

Throttle Lock

Anytime you deal with a power tool, caution is necessary.

Any momentary loss of awareness or the device falling into the wrong hands can cause injuries or damage to property.

To help prevent such occurrences, the Stihl 026 comes with a throttle lock. Once active, the chain cannot propel even if you accidentally press the trigger.

Hand Protector

Adding to its safety measures, this Stihl chainsaw also features a hand protector.

Should the chain break while in use, it can ricochet back from below and hurt you even if you are wearing gloves. Thanks to the metallic hand protector, you won’t have to worry about that happening.

Even those these safety mechanisms are there, always wear chainsaw gloves and chainsaw chaps.

Price and parts

Because you can’t find a new Stihl 026 (unless there are some NIB or NOS saws out there), this chainsaw has a vast price range.

Some of the factors that play a role in this include condition, how much you want it, and whether the owner still thinks it’s useful. With all these in play, you can pay anywhere from $50 to $400.

A mint condition 026 can sell for a lot more. Some have gone for over $600 on eBay and prices rise each year.

Is it easy to find parts for the Stihl 026?

Although Stihl 026 replacement parts are not as available as those for newer models, they remain accessible.

You can find them on platforms such as:

• Here on eBay – original and aftermarket parts (including complete 026 chainsaws)
• On Amazon here – a lot of aftermarket parts

Local Facebook Groups are another good spot to ask around for chainsaw parts. I’ve found there’s always someone nearby with the parts I need.

Reviews

When purchasing a chainsaw, the most important thing to consider is whether it can deliver on expectations.

With the Stihl 026, that’s exactly what you get. It’s simple yet effective. With the features, it offers that support functionality and safety, it’s a great tool for personal use. Moreover, you won’t experience extremely rough vibrations when cutting, making the user experience more friendly.

However, if there’s a drawback with this chainsaw, it’s that some spare parts might not be readily available at stores near you. Fortunately, you can still access them from various online platforms.

Here are some comments from people who have owned and used the 026 extensively.

John said:

Yep [it’s good]. Unless you’re getting into some wood that’s bigger than 24 inches and it’s a little underpowered and you’re not gonna be able to use as big a bar.

Jimmy shared:

The 026 is the perfect saw. Very durable and if you take care of it saw will outlast you.

Don’t let these other guys tell you “it wasn’t $300 brand new.” Get real people. This is one of my best-selling saws and coming from someone who builds them EVERY SINGLE DAY this saw is worth every penny.

But yes bring a t27 bit with you and pull the muffler. That will tell you everything you need to know.

And Tony said:

Great saw, retains it’s value well…If you take good care of it, can prob get your whole investment back if you decide to sell/upgrade..

Here’s a summary of the pros and cons.

Pros:

• Powerful, well built, pro grade chainsaw
• Reliable when looked after and it will go all day
• Durable – can take a bit of a beating due to it’s magnesium case
• Most parts are easy still to find and there are plenty of repair or mod tutorials on YouTube
• Good resale value

Cons:

• Awkward choke
• Doesn’t have the most modern features
• Parts can be pricey, especially OEM

026 Chainsaw

Whether the Stihl 026 is great is beside the point when shopping around for a chainsaw.

It’s one thing buying a great chainsaw and another altogether having one that suits your needs. So, begin by determining how you intend to use the chainsaw to guide you on key aspects such as power output.

The Stihl 026 falls under the category of chainsaws designed for light-pro use. As such, if you want a tool that can handle your farming and household firewood needs, it’s a great option.

Moreover, you can also take it with you when you go out into the woods. Take it from me. It’s no fun running out of firewood when you are in a cabin in the middle of nowhere with no electricity during winter. Ultimately, the 026 is a reliable chainsaw.