Stihl MS 311 Chainsaw: Safe Use, Cutting Techniques, and Maintenance

Name: Starting The Stihl MS 311 Chainsaw
Uploaded: 2026-03-13
Duration: 1 min 23 s
Description: Comprehensive, safety-first guide to operating and maintaining the Stihl MS 311 chainsaw. Learn startup, cutting techniques, maintenance routines, and best practices for homeowners and pros alike.

Comprehensive, safety-first guide to operating and maintaining the Stihl MS 311 chainsaw. Learn startup, cutting techniques, maintenance routines, and best practices for homeowners and pros alike.

Chainsaw Manual Team

March 13, 2026·5 min read

Chainsaw Bar Oil Starting Chainsaw Maintenance Safety Gear

Quick AnswerSteps

Goal: safely operate and maintain a Stihl MS 311 chainsaw to complete wood-cutting tasks. This guide covers safe startup, proper cutting technique, chain and bar maintenance, and routine inspections. Before you begin, assemble PPE, fresh fuel, bar oil, and a sharp chain. Follow these steps for consistent, safe results. Adherence reduces kickback risks and operator fatigue.

Understanding the Stihl MS 311: Design and Intended Use

The Stihl MS 311 is a mid-range chainsaw favored by homeowners, woodworkers, and professional contractors for its balance of portability and performance. It is designed to handle a broad range of tasks, from routine pruning to medium-size felling and bucking. While no single saw is perfect for every job, the MS 311 shines when you need reliable power without fatigue over long sessions. According to Chainsaw Manual, the model sits in the mid-range for versatility, with ergonomic handles, a smooth anti-vibration system, and a simple starting mechanism. The design emphasizes safe operation, with features such as a chain brake, inertia-activated stop, and easily accessible controls for choke and throttle. For best results, choose a bar length that matches your typical task—long bars offer deeper cutting reach but require more control and balance. Always refer to the user’s manual for your exact model’s specs and maintenance intervals. This section outlines the core capabilities and how they align with common maintenance schedules.

Safety Foundations for Operating a Stihl MS 311

Operating any chainsaw requires strict adherence to PPE and safe work practices. At minimum, wear a helmet with face shield, hearing protection, cut-resistant chaps, sturdy gloves, and steel-toed boots. Establish a clear work zone: keep bystanders at a safe distance, remove loose debris, and ensure the ground is firm. Correct stance matters: stand with feet apart, knees slightly bent, and the saw near hip level when cutting. Before starting, inspect the chain tension, chain brake, and bar; check for cracks, loose bolts, and proper lubrication. Kickback is a real hazard when the bar nose encounters wood, so plan cuts to avoid sudden binding. Chainsaw manuals emphasize a two-handed grip and smooth, deliberate motions. If you’re operating from an elevated platform or on uneven ground, consider safety lines or a second observer. Keeping your focus on the task reduces the likelihood of slips that lead to injuries.

Preparation: Fuel, Bar Oil, and Chain Care

Fuel and bar oil management are essential for maintaining engine health and cutting performance. Use fresh gasoline and the recommended two-stroke oil ratio as specified by the manufacturer, stored in a clean, labeled container. Check the bar oil reservoir and fill before each long session to ensure proper chain lubrication. Inspect the chain tension and sharpness: a loose chain can pinch and stall cuts, while a dull chain requires more effort and increases the risk of accidents. Replace damaged components, including the bar, chain, and sprocket, if wear is excessive. Clean the air filter regularly and replace a clogged filter promptly. Remove the spark plug to inspect for fouling and correct gaps as instructed by the manual. Finally, perform a quick leak check around fuel lines and bar oil system to prevent unexpected shutdowns.

Cutting Techniques: Safe Methods for Felling, Limbing, and Bucking

Before you cut, plan the work: assess the tree to anticipate kickback zones and ensure a safe retreat path. For bucking, position yourself on the uphill side of the log when possible and use a controlled pull. When limbing, keep the bar tip from contacting the ground and avoid cutting overhead from a ladder or unstable stance. Maintain steady, two-handed control, and let the saw do the work; avoid forcing it through wood that binds. For felling smaller trees, make a stagnant undercut then a back cut on the opposite side to control the fall. Use wedges and proper notching to guide direction. If a joint binds, stop and reassess instead of forcing the cut. The MS 311’s weight distribution and anti-vibration system help, but personal technique remains critical.

Maintenance Routine to Extend Life

Routine maintenance reduces downtime and extends the life of your chainsaw. After each use, clean the air intake and check the chain for embedded debris. Sharpen or replace the chain when teeth dull; always file at the correct angle and maintain even tension. Check bar rail wear and sprocket condition to prevent chain binding. Drain and inspect the fuel system periodically for contaminant buildup. Replace worn gaskets and seals as needed and store the saw in a dry, ventilated space. A regular schedule for cleaning, lubrication, and inspection according to the Chainsaw Manual will minimize unexpected failures and maximize performance.

AUTHORITY SOURCES

These sources provide general safety and best practices for handheld power tools, including chainsaws. OSHA outlines PPE requirements, hazard assessment, and safe operating procedures. NIOSH discusses ergonomic considerations and noise exposure. The U.S. Forest Service offers field guidance on reducing injury risk during tree work. In practice, combine these guidelines with the model-specific instructions from Stihl.

Tools & Materials

Helmet with face shield(ANSI Z87.1 compliant, full-face protection preferred)
Hearing protection(PPE rated for chainsaw noise levels)
Cut-resistant chaps or PPE pants(Protects legs from thrown debris)
Sturdy gloves(Grip and shock absorption)
Steel-toed boots(Non-slip soles, ankle support)
Fuel mix (gasoline + two-stroke oil)(Follow manufacturer ratio; use fresh fuel)
Bar oil(For continuous chain lubrication during operation)
Screwdriver or wrench for tensioning(Keep bar nuts tight and chain tension correct)
Chain sharpening file or chain saw sharpener(Keep teeth sharp and evenly chamfered)
Rope or chalk for securing logs (optional)(Used to stabilize logs during bucking if needed)

Steps

Estimated time: 30-45 minutes

1
Inspect area and gear
Survey the work zone for trip hazards and ensure stable footing. Put on full PPE and verify the saw is in good condition without loose parts. Confirm fuel and bar oil are available and within reach.
Tip: Test the chain brake before starting to ensure it engages smoothly.
2
Check saw condition and chain tension
With the saw off, inspect the chain for wear and the bar for cracks. Adjust tension so the chain can be moved by hand with slight resistance. Tighten if the chain is loose or if you hear rattling during operation.
Tip: A properly tensioned chain reduces derailment and improves control.
3
Prepare fuel and bar oil
Mix fuel and oil according to the manual, and fill the fuel tank first. Check the bar oil reservoir and top off to ensure continuous lubrication during initial cuts.
Tip: Never mix fuel in a used container or one that contains contaminants.
4
Set starting procedure and stance
Engage the chain brake, place the bar tip on a firm surface, and hold the saw with a two-hand grip. Keep elbows close to the body and the saw in a comfortable, stable position. Prepare to start following the manual’s choke and throttle steps.
Tip: Position your body to absorb kickback forces safely.
5
Start the saw safely
Follow the recommended starting sequence, ensuring the chain brake remains engaged until you are ready to cut. Bring the saw to full idle before attempting any motion.
Tip: Do not start with the saw resting on your leg or knee.
6
Make a test cut
Lightly contact the wood with the bar tip to gauge resistance. If the cut binds, back off and reassess your stance and material. Avoid forcing the saw and let the chain do the work.
Tip: Keep a clear retreat path behind you at all times.
7
Proceed with main cuts
Use controlled, steady motions, maintain two-handed grip, and avoid overreaching. Respect kickback zones and pause if the wood shifts unexpectedly. Maintain consistent chain lubrication.
Tip: Change positions slowly to maintain balance and control.
8
Shutdown, cleanup, and storage
Engage the chain brake, allow the engine to cool, and remove fuel from the tank if storing for an extended period. Clean the air intake, wipe down the exterior, and store in a dry, ventilated area.
Tip: Inspect and record any maintenance needs before storage.

Pro Tip: Always maintain a two-handed grip and keep your elbows slightly bent for better control.

Warning: Never cut above shoulder height or on a ladder; unstable positions dramatically increase risk.

Note: Regularly check chain tension and sharpness even during light use.

Pro Tip: Plan your retreat path before each cut to avoid traps or entanglements.

Warning: Do not operate in wet or slippery conditions without enhanced PPE and caution.

FAQ

How do I start the Stihl MS 311 safely?

Begin by donning full PPE, inspecting the chain and bar, and ensuring the chain brake is engaged. Follow the manufacturer’s starting sequence for choke and throttle, then bring the saw to idle before cutting.

What is the correct chain tension for the MS 311?

The chain should have a slight drag when pulled along the bar by hand, with minimal side-to-side movement. It should move smoothly around the bar without sagging or binding.

How often should I sharpen the chain?

Sharpen whenever you notice decreased cutting efficiency, increased effort, or visible dull teeth. Regular filing at the correct angle maintains performance and reduces risk.

What fuel mix should I use for the MS 311?

Use fresh fuel and the two-stroke oil ratio recommended by Stihl for your model. Do not mix in contaminants or reuse old fuel to protect engine life.

How should I store the saw when not in use?

Run the engine briefly to burn excess fuel, then drain if storing for an extended period. Store in a dry, ventilated area away from direct heat or ignition sources.

What can I do to minimize kickback risk?

Avoid contacting the bar nose with wood, use proper stance, and plan cuts to maintain a clear retreat path. Maintain chain sharpness and steady pressure to prevent jerky movements.