The STIHL MS 200 rear handle chainsaw, introduced in 2004, brought the power of a compact arborist saw into a more stable, ground-focused design.
With its 35.2 cc engine and lightweight 8.4 lb build, it became a favorite for limbing, cutting, and general property work. Though in saying that, it’s nowhere near as popular or as well-known as the MS 200 T, a legendary model.
Here’s how the saw was described when first released in November 2004.
2004 press release
ULTIMATE ARBORIST SAW NOW AVAILABLE WITH REAR HANDLE
STIHL MS 200 Rear Handle Chain Saw Ideally Suited for Groundwork
Date: November 2004
Release Date: IMMEDIATELYVIRGINIA BEACH, Va.-STIHL has developed the MS 200 as the rear handle counterpart to the STIHL MS 200 T and the staple ground saw in the mid-range user arborist tool bag. The MS 200 chain saw combines the compact performance of the MS 200 T with the stability and control of a rear handle chain saw. Designed for mid-range user arborists and landscapers, the MS 200 rear handle is ideally suited for a variety of groundwork applications.
Equipped with performance-proven features, the saw offers a lightweight, balanced design and high torque engine. At only 8.4 pounds, the MS 200 rear handle is one of STIHL’s lightest gasoline-powered chain saws.
The STIHL MS 200 rear handle features an anti-vibration system, automatic chain oiling and STIHL ElastoStart™ shock-absorbing starter handle. Other performance features include a Quad Power™ engine, Master Control Lever™, a side-access chain tensioner, STIHL’s toolless filler caps and STIHL Quickstop® chain brake.
STIHL MS 200 Rear Handle Specifications
- Displacement: 35.2 cc (2.15 cu. in.)
- Engine Power: 1.6 kW (2.1 bhp)
- Weight: 3.8 kg (8.4 lbs.)
- Fuel Capacity: 370 cc (12.5 oz.)
- Chain Oil Capacity: 240 cc (8.1 oz.)
- Oilomatic® Chain: 3/8″ PM1
- Guide Bars Available: 30 to 40 cm (12″ to 16″)
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | MS 200 |
| Manufacturer | STIHL Andreas Maschinenfabrik, Stuttgart, Germany |
| Year Introduced | 2004 |
| Engine Type | Single-cylinder, two-stroke |
| Displacement | 35.2 cc (2.15 cu. in.) |
| Cylinder Bore × Stroke | 40 mm (1.60 in.) × 28 mm (1.10 in.) |
| Cylinder / Intake | Aluminum cylinder with chrome-plated bore; piston ported |
| Power | 1.6 kW (2.1 bhp) |
| Idle Speed | 2,800 rpm |
| Ignition System | Electronic magneto ignition |
| Spark Plug & Gap | NGK BPMR7A / Bosch WSR6F; 0.5 mm (0.020 in.) |
| Carburetor | All-position diaphragm carburetor with integral fuel pump |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 370 ml (0.37 L / 12.5 oz) |
| Oil Tank Capacity | 240 ml (0.24 L / 8.1 oz) |
| Chain Lubrication | Fully automatic, speed-controlled oil pump |
| Weight (Powerhead) | 3.8 kg (8.4 lbs) |
| Construction | Die-cast magnesium and injection-molded polymer |
| Handle System | Anti-vibration |
| Starter | STIHL ElastoStart / automatic rewind |
| Chain Brake | Inertia-activated (Quickstop) |
| Clutch / Drive | Centrifugal clutch; direct drive |
| Chain Specification | 3/8″ PM1 (Picco), .043″ gauge |
| Guide Bar Lengths | 30–40 cm (12″–16″) typical; up to 45 cm (18″) max |
Reviews
These STIHL MS 200 reviews and comments come from our FB posts (which are embedded below):
- John said, “I used one at work, and I liked it so much I bought one for myself 👍 brilliant little saw.”
- Jeremy said, “I’ve never seen one in person, but I’ve seen plenty of pics of them. They make a rear handle 201 as well.”
- Sean said, “Tons of 200 rear handles out there. I have 6 of them for rebuilds. They rip.”
Another John said:
The MS 201 is legendary and coveted. But it’s mostly used for climbing and has a top handle for one-handed use.
This one is, as others have mentioned, for carving and getting a little more reach with two hands. But there’s a lot of power and a small package there’s gotta be some reason both everybody seems to have one of these and they sell for a lot of money even used.
Tom said:
Most dealers order them when they enter in the wrong number thinking it was the top handle saw was that they wanted. Done it before.
