STIHL MS 280 Chainsaw Versions, Features, Specs, and Reviews

The STIHL MS 280 was made from 2003 – 2010. It’s a series 1133 saw, along with the MS 270, and the two saws are very similar.

The MS 280 isn’t reviewed very well, but it’s another interesting saw in that there was a version with an early form of M-Tronic, called Intelligent Engine Management (IEM) technology.

Let’s take a look at the versions and specs first.

The featured image above comes from @o.s.wooddesign.

STIHL MS 280 Versions

First up is the 54.2 cc base model MS 280 👇

This firewood and farm saw comes standard with toolless fuel and oil caps, IntelliCarb™ and side-access chain tensioner.

Heavy-duty anti-vibration system makes this model very comfortable to use. Same weight but more power than the MS 270 C.

Then there was the 54.2 cc MS 280 C QS 👇

This upgraded version of the MS 280 includes the additional convenience of the QS braking system.

This saw also features the exclusive Quick Chain Adjuster, ElastoStartTM shock-absorbing handle and decompression valve.

Next was the 54.7 cc MS 280 C-BQ 👇

This upgraded version of the MS 280 includes the additional convenience of a secondary chain braking system (Q).

This saw also features the exclusive Quick Chain Adjuster (B), ElastoStart™ shock-absorbing handle and decompression valve.

And lastly is the 54.7 cc MS 280 with Intelligent Engine Management (IEM) 👇

Don’t need a professional chain saw but want all the same impressive features?

Look no further. The MS 280 is the world’s first chain saw featuring STIHL’s Intelligent Engine Management technology.

Its innovative control system electronically optimizes fuel mixture over the whole RPM-range to ensure top engine performance, especially when there is a significant change in altitude.

With more power than the MS 270, this chain saw cuts faster and is both comfortable and efficient to use.

Later models of the other versions also had IEM.

For example, the MS 280 C-BQ with IEM 👇

If you thought the MS 280 couldn’t get any better, guess again.

Equipped with our Intelligent Engine Management system, this chain saw also has the additional convenience of a second chain braking system that stops the chain in less than a second when the rear handle is completely released— a STIHL exclusive you won’t find anywhere else.

A combination of features others simply can’t match.

So, no matter what version 280 you have, it may or may not have IEM, depending on when it was made.

Here are some ideas on how to tell if your saw has IEM (I haven’t actually seen one, so take this with a grain of salt):

1. On an IEM-equipped model, the high-speed adjustment screw (H) is absent or non-functional, since the system adjusts the fuel mixture electronically

2. A non-IEM MS 280 will have traditional carburetor adjustment screws (L, H, and LA)

3. The IEM system includes a microprocessor-controlled ignition module and a magnetic valve in the carburetor that opens and closes rapidly (33 times per second). While you can’t easily see these without opening the saw, a STIHL dealer or technician can check this for you.

4. Early models with IEM were among the first to feature this technology. If your saw is a later-model MS 280, especially one labeled MS 280 C-BQ, it likely includes IEM.

STIHL MS 280 reviews

The Instagram account, @o.s.wooddesign, shared:

Finally decided to buy a new chainsaw! I got a Stihl ms280 with an 18” bar, which I’m really liking.

Previously I was using a 40cc saw and the upgrade to 54cc was worth every penny. For anyone who’s wondering, I always wear chainsaw boots, trousers and helmet.

It’s not the biggest chainsaw, but for my needs it is ideal; plenty of power, yet it’s not so big that I’m not able to control it.

And these are comments and reviews from the STIHL Fans FB group, typically given when someone asks for opinions on the 280.

Newt said:

The 280 was not liked much. The main problem is that there are no aftermarket parts and most parts have been already discontinued from Stihl USA.

There was some guy in here waiting 4 months for a cylinder from the dealer.

The 270 and 280 were unique in design. It’s sort of a combination of a clamshell and traditional case.

He also added:

Honestly I wouldn’t buy one because I know that Stihl only made them for a short time and they never made replacement parts for them, but that’s just me. It is the same as the 270 with a couple more cc. They called it farm duty.

Corey said:

Heavy and underpowered, those 270-280 where odd ball saws, kinda half clam shell half pro saw.

Its a clamshell design but it splits in half, half the case is plastic, half magnesium.

They had alot of goofy design features: mufflers set inside the exhaust port which chokes them down. Early mtronic on some that was problematic.

Ole Red said:

I had one about 6 years ago and I tossed out of a tree about 60’ up.

It was to much trouble with this problem when ur 25 miles from the dealer and it’s 100 degrees outside. Problem solved.

Michael said:

The MS 270 and the 280 used the same frame. The MS 280 had a few more ccs. I think it was rated a 1/4 hp more than the MS 270.

Both saws were not very desirable.

And some shorter comments:

• Jon said, “Got rid of mine, went with a 362. Have a 270 also, liked it better.”
• Glynnis said, “Good for small diy jobs around the house.”
• Jeff said, “Short-lived in the STIHL lineup.”
• Brad said, “Not bad for a consumer saw.”
• JC said, “Keep in mind that the MS 270 is pretty much identical and has the same parts.”

Specifications

STIHL MS 280 chainsaw

The STIHL MS 280 is an interesting saw, even if most reviews of it are negative.

It’s the only saw I’m aware of that had the early version of M-Tronic, which is now standard on many STIHL saws, like the MS 261, for example.

It appears the MS 270 didn’t even have the Intelligent Engine Management System.

If you have any further insights into the MS 280, let us know in the comments below.