The STIHL S10 Chainsaw was produced from 1968 to 1973. Some reports suggest the rear-handle version was produced until 1978.
There are multiple versions of the S10, including the aforementioned rear-handle version and a top-handle version. More importantly, early versions of the saw were 48cc, while later versions (after 1969) were 56cc.
Some folk say there’s no such thing as a top-handle S10, but that it’s actually an 08S with an S10 clutch cover, but they’re wrong. STIHL most certainly did release a top-handle version (even if it was basically the same as the O8S), as you can see in these vintage S10 ads and brochures.
The S-10 was essentially a simplified economy version derived from the STIHL 08 platform, aimed at homeowners and occasional users, reusing a proven engine design.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | STIHL S-10 |
| Manufacturer | STIHL Andreas Maschinenfabrik |
| Manufacturing location | Stuttgart, Germany |
| Series / assembly number | 1108 |
| Production years | 1968–1973 |
| Saw type | One-man gasoline chainsaw |
| Construction | Die-cast magnesium housing |
| Colour scheme | Grey body with red top cover |
| Engine type | Air-cooled single-cylinder two-stroke |
| Displacement | 56 cc (3.39 cu in) |
| Early engine version | 48 cc (pre-1969 models) |
| Cylinder bore | 47 mm (early: 44 mm) |
| Stroke | 32 mm |
| Cylinder type | Aluminum with chrome-plated bore |
| Intake system | Piston-ported |
| Advertised power | ~3.4–3.6 hp |
| Maximum engine speed | ~7000 rpm |
| Idle speed | ~3000 rpm |
| Carburetor | Tillotson HL-62A diaphragm carburetor |
| Ignition system | Bosch magneto with breaker points |
| Ignition timing | 2 mm before TDC |
| Breaker point gap | 0.4 mm |
| Spark plug | Bosch WSR6F |
| Spark plug gap | 0.51 mm |
| Starter | Automatic rewind (Fairbanks-Morse type) |
| Clutch | Centrifugal |
| Drive type | Direct chain drive |
| Chain lubrication | Automatic oil pump |
| Fuel tank capacity | 0.75 L |
| Oil tank capacity | 0.33 L |
| Recommended fuel | Regular gasoline |
| Fuel-oil mix ratio | ~20:1 (some early docs show richer mixes) |
| Crankshaft bearings | Ball bearings |
| Air filter | Nylon mesh element |
| Chain pitch | .404 in |
| Chain gauge | .063 in |
| Chain type | Oregon |
| Chain speed | ~18 m/s |
| Guide bar supplied | 16 in (40 cm) |
| Guide bar range | 13–17 in (33–43 cm) |
| Bar mount pattern | STIHL 07 mount |
| Weight | ~8.1–8.4 kg (18–18.5 lb) with 16 in bar & chain |
| Chain brake | None |
| Handle system | Rigid (no AV on early models) |
Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Automatic oiling | Positive automatic chain lubrication |
| Roller nose bar | Reduced friction guide bar |
| Ball & roller bearings | Heavy-duty engine construction |
| Integrated tanks | Fuel and oil tanks built into body |
| Bosch ignition | Reliable ignition system |
| Lightweight design | Advertised around 15 lb |
| General-purpose saw | Designed for farmers, property owners, and DIY users |
Next, check out this STIHL S10 rear-handle restoration!
