Stihl Farm Boss Chain Size — What Chain Fits Your Farm Boss?
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Stihl Farm Boss Chain Size — What Chain Fits Your Farm Boss?
The Stihl Farm Boss is one of the most popular chainsaws in Australia. If you've got one and need a replacement chain, this guide covers the exact specs you need — pitch, gauge, and drive links — so you get the right chain first time.
Which Models Are "Farm Boss"?
Stihl has used the Farm Boss name across a few different models over the years. The two most common are:
- Stihl MS 271 Farm Boss — the current model
- Stihl MS 391 Farm Boss — the bigger brother, designed for heavier work
Older models like the MS 290 and MS 390 were also sold as Farm Boss variants. The chain specs depend on which model you have and what bar length is fitted.
Stihl Farm Boss Chain Specs
MS 271 Farm Boss
| Bar Length | Pitch | Gauge | Drive Links |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16" | .325 | .063 | 62 |
| 18" | .325 | .063 | 68 |
| 20" | .325 | .063 | 72 |
The MS 271 runs .325 pitch with .063 gauge. This is a Stihl-specific gauge — don't confuse it with .058 which is for Husqvarna saws.
MS 391 Farm Boss
| Bar Length | Pitch | Gauge | Drive Links |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16" | 3/8 | .063 | 60 |
| 18" | 3/8 | .063 | 66 |
| 20" | 3/8 | .063 | 72 |
The MS 391 runs 3/8 pitch with .063 gauge. This is a step up from the MS 271 — bigger pitch for more aggressive cutting.
How to Confirm Your Chain Size
Before ordering, always double-check by looking at your guide bar. You'll find the pitch, gauge, and drive link count stamped on the bar — usually near the base where it meets the saw body.
If you can't read the markings, send us a photo and we'll sort it out for you.
What About Older Farm Boss Models?
If you've got an older Farm Boss (MS 290 or MS 390), here's what you're likely running:
- MS 290: .325 pitch, .063 gauge (same as MS 271)
- MS 390: 3/8 pitch, .063 gauge (same as MS 391)
Always confirm on your bar — Stihl occasionally changed configurations between production runs.
Upgrade to Tungsten Carbide
If you're cutting Australian hardwood, dirty timber, or doing regular firewood runs, a tungsten carbide tipped chain is worth considering. They last around 10x longer than a standard chain before needing sharpening.
We stock tungsten carbide chains in both .325 .063 and 3/8 .063 — so both Farm Boss models are covered.
- .325 Tungsten Carbide Chains — suits MS 271 Farm Boss
- 3/8 Tungsten Carbide Chains — suits MS 391 Farm Boss
Not Sure Which Farm Boss You Have?
Check the model number on the data plate — it's usually on the rear handle or starter housing. Or use our Chain Finder tool to look up your saw by brand and model.
For the full Stihl size chart covering every model, check out our Complete Stihl Chainsaw Chain Size Guide.
Need Help?
Not sure what you need? Send us a message or give us a call on 0431 183 421. Happy to help you work out the right chain for your Farm Boss.