The STIHL MS 462 C-M VW with a 50 cm (20″) guide bar is a professional-grade petrol chainsaw built for serious forestry, tree-care and demanding cutting operations. This 2025-edition model is equipped with an advanced feature set for performance, reliability and user comfort, making it a strong choice for arborists, large-scale property management and heavy-duty applications.
At its core is a 72.2 cm³ displacement two-stroke engine delivering approximately 4.4 kW of power (about 6 hp). The C-M designation indicates STIHL’s M-Tronic™ electronic engine management system is built in, meaning ignition and fuel metering are automatically adjusted for optimal performance regardless of altitude, temperature or fuel variation. The “VW” suffix signifies that the unit has both carburettor and handle heating, making it especially effective in cold-climate or variable weather operations.
The 50 cm guide bar allows for substantial cutting length—enough to handle large-diameter trees or extended bucking tasks—while retaining a size that remains manageable for professional users. The combination with the RS chain (Rapid Super) ensures fast, efficient cutting with professional-level chain performance. The ES Light bar (Rollomatic ES Light) further contributes to reduced weight and better handling characteristics.
Weighing approximately 6.1 kg (without bar and chain) this saw offers an excellent power-to-weight ratio of around 1.4 kg/kW, making it one of the “lightest high-performance saws in its class.” The sound pressure level is listed at 108 dB(A) and sound power at approximately 119 dB(A). Vibration values are low for the category: left side approx. 4.8 m/s², right side approx. 3.6 m/s², aided by STIHL’s anti-vibration system. Maintenance features are professional grade: side-access chain tensioning, tool-free filler caps, captive nuts on the sprocket cover for quick changes, and HD2 air filter for extended maintenance intervals.
In actual use the MS 462 C-M VW with 50 cm bar is ideal for larger trees, farm or estate forestry work, and professional timber operations where a longer bar is necessary but weight and agility still matter. The carburettor and handle heating help when starting in cold weather or early mornings, and the M-Tronic system ensures the saw runs at peak performance whichever the conditions.
Durability and serviceability are built in: the engine is designed for high duty cycles in professional use; the ES Light bar reduces fatigue and improves balance; the RS chain ensures serious cutting capability; the VW features ensure usability across weather; the overall machine is designed with professionals in mind rather than light occasional use.
In short: if you require a premium chainsaw that can handle heavy duty, long cuts and professional tasks with reliability, performance and comfort — the STIHL MS 462 C-M VW (50 cm bar, RS chain, ES Light bar) is a top tier choice.
Key Features
72.2 cm³ petrol engine, output ~4.4 kW (6 hp)
M-Tronic™ digital engine management (C-M) for automatic adjustment and optimized performance
VW version: carburettor heating and handle heating for cold weather use
50 cm (20″) guide bar length for large cutting tasks
RS chain (3/8″ pitch, 1.6 mm gauge) professional grade
Rollomatic ES Light guide bar for reduced weight and improved handling
Weight approx. 6.1 kg without bar/chain; excellent power/weight ratio
Sound pressure level approx. 108 dB(A), sound power approx. 119 dB(A)
Vibration values approx. 4.8 m/s² (left) and 3.6 m/s² (right)
Side-access chain tensioning, tool‐free filler caps, captive sprocket cover nuts for ease of maintenance
Anti-vibration system, HD2 filter, durable build for professional use
Benefits
High cutting capability: The 50 cm bar gives long reach and large cut per pass, ideal for big trees or thick-wood tasks.
Ease of use and handling: Despite the bar length, the weight and balance remain manageable due to ES Light bar and reduced weight build.
Year-round performance: With carburettor and handle heating (VW), the saw is effective in cold, damp or winter conditions.
Reduced fatigue: Excellent power/weight ratio and low vibration system make longer sessions less fatiguing.
Professional servicing convenience: Quick chain tensioning, tool-free caps and durable components reduce downtime.
Reliable in variable conditions: M-Tronic ensures automatic adjustment to environment and fuel quality, making the saw more consistent.
Uses / Applications
Forestry felling and bucking tasks requiring longer bar length.
Estate and large-property tree-care operations where reach and power are needed.
Arborist work where advanced features and comfort are necessary for frequent use.
Cold-climate or early morning operations, thanks to the VW features.
Professional timber processing, maintenance of large trees or utility tree-work.
Technical Data (Approximate)
Engine displacement: 72.2 cm³
Power output: 4.4 kW (6 hp)
Guide bar length: 50 cm (20″)
Chain pitch: 3/8″ (0.050 in)
Chain gauge: 1.6 mm
Weight (without bar & chain): ~6.1 kg
Sound pressure level: ~108 dB(A)
Sound power level: ~119 dB(A)
Vibration values: left ~4.8 m/s², right ~3.6 m/s²
Power/weight ratio: approx. 1.4 kg/kW
Fuel tank capacity: ~0.72 L
Oil tank capacity: ~0.34 L
