The Stihl MS 462 C-M VW is a professional-grade petrol chainsaw engineered for arborists, forestry professionals and demanding tree-care operations where power, reliability and low weight matter. This 2025 model combines high engine output, advanced features and ergonomic design to deliver top performance in a variety of real-world forestry and heavy-duty applications.
At its heart the MS 462 C-M uses a high-performance two-stroke petrol engine with Stihl’s M-Tronic™ electronic engine management system which adjusts automatically for variations in altitude, temperature and fuel quality. This ensures optimal ignition timing and fuel metering without manual carburettor adjustments. The “C-M” designation indicates that the saw includes this electronic management plus a decompression valve and other features to assist starting and ensure efficient running.
One of the standout characteristics is its excellent power-to-weight ratio. Although designed for high-duty usage, the machine remains comparatively light, reducing operator fatigue during long sessions. With a guide bar around 40 cm (≈16″) the saw is configured for high manoeuvrability in medium-sized tree-work, limbing, pruning or when access is a bit tighter. The “VW” suffix often indicates additional features such as heated handle (particularly in colder climates) or variable bar/chain options and anti-vibration systems – making it more comfortable for prolonged use.
Key features include Stihl’s Ematic™ lubrication system (in many versions) which optimises bar oil delivery and reduces consumption; ElastoStart™ or low-effort starter mechanisms to ease pulling; robust anti-vibration systems to minimise wear on the operator’s body; side-access chain tensioners for quick maintenance; and a premium air-filtration system to extend service intervals under dusty or harsh conditions.
In practical use you’ll find this chainsaw excels when you need both mobility and power: for felling smaller to medium-sized trees, bucking logs, pruning in plantation settings, working from ladders or platforms, or managing maintenance tasks where a full-sized 50 cm+ bar machine would be too bulky. The 40 cm bar gives a balance between cut length and manoeuvrability.
Maintenance and durability are solid: the electronic engine management reduces the need for frequent carburettor tuning; the heavy-duty build ensures longevity; and the design supports easy servicing of air filters, chain/ bar changes, and routine lubrication. For a professional tree-care business, this means less downtime and more reliable performance.
In summary: if you’re looking for a high-end petrol chainsaw that delivers professional-level performance, with ease of operation, robust features and the advantage of a somewhat shorter guide bar for improved agility, the Stihl MS 462 C-M VW (40 cm bar) is an excellent choice for serious forestry or tree-care work.
Key Features
Stihl M-Tronic™ engine management for automatic fuel/ignition adjustment.
High power output with a compact design for superior power-to-weight ratio.
Guide bar around 40 cm (≈16″) for efficient cutting in medium-sized trees, manageable size and improved manoeuvrability.
Anti-vibration system to reduce operator fatigue on extended jobs.
Side-access chain tensioner for quick maintenance and chain adjustments.
Decompression valve or low-effort start features to make starting easier.
Ematic™ lubrication (in many units) to reduce bar oil consumption and improve chain/bar lubrication.
Durable air-filtration system, tool-free tank caps, and professional build for long service life.
Ideal for felling, limbing, bucking and professional tree-care operations.
Benefits
Less fatigue: lighter weight than many large-saw competitors means easier handling for longer durations.
Professional finish: excellent acceleration, power and smooth operation for demanding cutting tasks.
Better manoeuvrability: 40 cm bar gives agility in tighter spaces or for intermediate-sized trees without sacrificing too much cutting length.
Higher uptime: premium features reduce maintenance frequency and improve reliability.
Versatile use: suited for both arborist work and more general forestry tasks.
Improved operator comfort: anti-vibration, ergonomic controls and easy starting make it more user-friendly for professionals.
Uses / Applications
Professional tree-care and arborist work (pruning, limbing, tree removal).
Forestry maintenance tasks requiring mobility and good cut length.
Working from aerial platforms, ladders or in tighter terrain where a long bar is cumbersome.
Bucking logs and processing medium-sized timber.
Contractors and users demanding high reliability and quality build in their chainsaws.
Technical Data (Approximate & Subject to Region)
Engine displacement: ~72.2 cm³ (for MS 462 series)
Power output: ~4.4 kW (for comparable spec) Galaxus+1
Weight (without bar & chain) around: ~6 kg (for MS 462 variants)
Guide bar length: ~40 cm (16″) typical for this variant (though longer bars are compatible)
Strategic features: anti-vibration system, side-access chain tensioner, tool-free caps, Ematic lubrication.
Intended for professional use with frequent/long cutting sessions.
