The STIHL MS 440 Magnum is a pro-level 70.7 cc chainsaw produced from 2001 – 2012.
The Magnum label is applied to all 440s—there’s no non-Magnum 440—and they’re all the same saw, though Magnum can meandifferent things for other saws.
My mate Tim has owned and used this 440 for over 15 years. In his words, “It’s only just been broken in.” He likes the saw a lot and rates it highly.
Stihl MS 440 Magnum
The MS440 is a popular chainsaw in the Stihl community.
It entered production in 2001, replacing the 044, and was discontinued in 2012 after being phased out with the introduction of the MS 441.
It’s described as a “hog,” “beast,” “beauty,” and “the best saw ever”—all terms of endearment reserved for good saws.
We’ve been bucking gum logs with the 440.
These trees were felled over ten years ago and are extra hard, but it wasn’t a problem for the saw.
The MS 440 is considered a “thinning saw” for forestry, so it’s not necessarily designed for cutting thick gum rounds, but it performs well when used for homeowner firewood.
Stihl MS440 Reviews
As we already said, Tim bought his MS 440 15+ years ago and has been very happy with it.
He uses it as his primary firewood saw each year and puts some hours in with it.
It is a great mid-range professional chainsaw for those in forestry or those needing a firewood saw.
Here are other reviews and comments from STIHL FB groups:
- Darren said, “Real gem, much improved over the old 044.”
- John said, “The 044/440 is a great saw, well loved for good reason.”
- David said, “Love my 440. Easier to lug around than the 660 and just as good for firewood.”
- Duff said, “I received a Stihl MS 440 Magnum as a retirement gift in 2002. It’s running strong yet to this day. No modifications.”
- Mike said, “Best saw STIHL ever made.”
Grantham said:
I have one and I love it.
It has all the mid range pull you could want, great saw. I have over 28 running Stihl hand saws and the 440 is a beast!
I have an 046 with a 066 jug in it, and a couple of built 461s that are faster, but the 440 pulls chain!
And Scuffy Native said:
Took the 500i out against the 440.
My honest opinion: the 500i has tons of chain speed. The 440 has more torque. That’s based off how they cut and felt while using.
I’m sure opinions vary but that just my hands on observation.
Not everyone agreed…
Callum replied:
I have used the 500i and 440 extensively over the past year and the 440 doesn’t even come close when it comes to power or torque.
The 500i is a much more capable saw, but I did find myself preferring the 440 for smaller trees and for brushing as it felt nicer to use ergonomically.
And Gino said:
Piston stroke has everything to do with torque.
The 440 is 36mm stroke, can’t find data on 500i. I did find the 500i is listed as 6.8hp vs. like 5.5 hp for a 440.
So not a fair comparison from the starting gun. MS460 prob closer in performance.
So, while not everyone agrees that the 440 is better than the 500i, everyone does think the 440 is a great saw in its own right. For many, it’s been a solid performer for decades.
Specs and Features
The MS440 was a best-selling pro saw in its day.
Most agree it’s far better than the MS 441 that replaced it, which is rated as one of the worst STIHL Chainsaws.
The 440 is a powerful model for felling, bucking, and limbing. And, as mentioned above, it is (or was) great for thinning trees in forestry blocks.
Standard specifications:
- 4.3 cu in / 70.7 cc
- 5.4 hp / 4.0 kW
- 13.9 lbs / 6.3 kg
- 1.97″/50 mm bore
- 1.42″/36 mm stroke
It’s recommended for use with 16″ to 32″ bars, though guys with ported 440s go up to 36-inches.
Standard features:
- IntelliCarb compensating carburetor
- Toolless fuel and oil caps with retainers
- Magnesium casing
- Decompression valve
- ElastoStart starter handle
- Automatic oiler (adjustable)
- Side access chain tensioner
- Heavy-duty air filter
Other standard features of a saw produced at this time include an anti-vibration system, chain catcher, bumper spikes, handguard, easy-access air filter, and so on.
The Stihl MS440 Artic version weighs a bit more (14.3 lbs / 6.5 kg) and is designed for use in colder climates. This feature was designated with a VW (STIHL MS 440 Magnum VW).
Artic saws are built with an automatic, electrically heated carburetor to help prevent icing in severe weather. They also feature heated handles that can be turned on or off for comfort.
There was also a wrap-handle version of the 440 with an extended chip deflector on the sprocket cover (STIHL MS 440 Magnum R).
MS 440 Price
What is the STIHL MS 440 worth today?
They often come up for sale on eBay, FB Marketplace, or other online marketplaces.
As with all used goods, the price will largely depend on condition, location, and demand… the these saws seem to always be in demand.
At the time of writing, an entire 440 for parts is listed on eBay for $147.50, and a 440 powerhead in good working condition is going for $580.
440s that are in very good condition are usually listed for US$800+.
We saw one on FB that had only had one tank of gas through it, and people suggested it was worth over US$1000. It was basically new.
Compare saws and parts prices:
- On eBay – for saws, parts, and parts saws
- HL Supply – for Stihl OEM and aftermarket parts
- On Amazon– aftermarket parts
The MS 440 Chainsaw
The 440 might not be Stihl’s biggest chainsaw, but it’s right up there.
It’s a saw that can be regularly used on hardwoods and will continue to perform well year after year.
The only problem is that you can’t buy them new anymore. If you’re looking for a mid-range chainsaw that you can buy today, the Stihl MS 261 is a good option. That’s a 50 cc saw. The 70 cc 500i would be even better.
Let us know your thoughts, experiences, and other comments on the 440 below.
