A new Stihl MS 250 chainsaw with an 18-inch bar typically costs about $400-$500 before sales tax, with many buyers paying around $450 at an authorized dealer. The final price depends on dealer pricing, included setup, local taxes, and whether the saw is new, used, or bundled with accessories.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New MS 250, 18-inch bar | $400 | $450 | $500 | Before tax; dealer availability and pricing vary |
| Used saw in working condition | $150 | $250 | $350 | Price depends on age, maintenance, and included bar |
| Replacement 18-inch chain | $20 | $30 | $45 | Price depends on chain type and dealer |
| Sales tax | $0 | $25 | $50 | Illustrative amount on a $450 purchase |
What an 18-inch MS 250 typically costs
For a new MS 250 fitted with an 18-inch bar, a practical budget is $400-$500 before tax. Around $450 is a reasonable planning figure for a standard retail purchase, though local authorized dealers set their own prices and may have different inventory or package offers. The estimate is for the powerhead, bar, and chain, not optional protective gear or extra chains.
Most buyers should plan on roughly $425-$475 before tax for a basic new saw. A lower quote may reflect a promotion or a different package; a higher quote may include accessories, delivery, or other items. Confirm the exact model, bar length, and included equipment before comparing prices.
Assumptions: New MS 250, 18-inch bar and chain, standard retail purchase, no bundled accessories, before sales tax.
How the dealer quote breaks down
A dealer quote may combine the saw and its included cutting equipment with setup or add-ons. Ask for an itemized price so optional products are not mistaken for required charges. The amounts below are typical budgeting ranges, not a fixed national price list.
| Quote item | Typical price | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| MS 250 saw with 18-inch bar | $400-$500 | Confirm model and bar configuration |
| Extra chain | $20-$45 | Match chain pitch, gauge, and drive links |
| Bar oil and two-cycle oil | $10-$30 | Check bottle size and whether oil is already included |
| Protective chaps and eye protection | $60-$180 | Optional gear; price depends on type and rating |
| Sales tax | About 0%-10% of taxable items | Rate depends on the purchase location |
Accessories can add $30-$200 or more, so compare the saw-only total separately. Dealer preparation or demonstration may be included in the retail price; ask whether any setup charge is optional.
Which bar, condition, and package change the price
The 18-inch bar is a configuration detail, not a guarantee that every listing includes the same chain or accessories. Check the exact product description: a bare or incomplete used saw is not directly comparable with a new, ready-to-run dealer purchase. Included cases, extra chains, and maintenance items can account for part of a higher package total.
Condition creates the largest spread in used listings. A saw that starts, idles, oils the chain, and cuts correctly may fall around $200-$300; one with uncertain maintenance or repair needs may be closer to $150-$200. A clean, recently serviced example with useful extras can approach $350, but documentation and an in-person test matter more than appearance alone.
Compare like with like: 18-inch bar, chain condition, service history, and included accessories. A worn bar or chain may need replacement soon, reducing the value of an apparently cheaper used saw.
New dealer saw versus a used MS 250
A used MS 250 can save roughly $100-$250 against a new dealer purchase, but the savings can shrink if it needs a chain, bar, carburetor work, or other repairs. Before paying, inspect for fuel leaks, damaged handles, loose or damaged chain-brake parts, and excessive wear. Ask the seller to start it cold and demonstrate that the chain oiler works.
For a used saw, reserve about $40-$100 for likely near-term maintenance if service records are missing. Repair estimates depend on the fault and local shop labor. A major engine repair can make a low purchase price poor value; get a repair quote before buying when compression or starting behavior is questionable.
A working used saw around $250 may be a better deal than a $175 saw with unknown mechanical problems. A new purchase usually offers clearer dealer support and a defined warranty, while used-sale coverage depends on the seller and transaction.
Why MS 250 prices differ by region
Retail pricing can vary with dealer inventory, local operating expenses, competition, and the availability of promotions. As a budgeting estimate, rural or lower-overhead markets may come in about 5%-10% below a broad $450 planning price, while high-cost metro areas can be about 5%-15% above it. These are comparison ranges, not guaranteed regional price rules.
Sales tax changes the checkout total independently of the advertised price. For example, a $450 saw taxed at 8% costs $486 before any accessories. Rural buyers may also face travel or delivery expenses, while urban buyers may have more nearby dealers to compare.
Compare the out-the-door total, not just the listed price. Ask whether the quote includes tax, setup, and any delivery fee, and check that the quoted bar length is 18 inches.
What dealer setup and add-ons may cost
Some dealers include assembly checks, operating instructions, and a brief demonstration in the purchase price; others may list preparation or delivery separately. If a separate setup charge appears, ask what work it covers and whether it is required. A delivery charge, where offered, can range from about $15-$75 depending on distance and dealer policy.
Useful extras can include a spare chain, bar oil, fuel mix, and protective equipment. Budget around $30-$75 for basic fluids and a spare chain, or more for a full set of protective gear. Avoid paying twice for items already included in the package or supplied with the saw.
Request an itemized quote before agreeing to dealer services or add-ons. Keep the receipt and warranty information, and follow the manufacturer’s operating and maintenance instructions.
Ways to lower the 18-inch MS 250 purchase price
Compare at least two local dealer quotes for the same MS 250 configuration, then ask whether the lower total is available with the same included items and support. Check authorized dealers for seasonal promotions, but compare the final price rather than focusing on a discount percentage. A package is worthwhile only if its accessories are items the buyer would otherwise purchase.
For a used purchase, inspect and test the saw before paying, and subtract the likely cost of a replacement chain or bar from the seller’s asking price. If an online or private listing is far below typical used prices, verify that the saw is complete, starts reliably, and is not being sold with a serious defect.
The clearest savings usually come from controlling add-ons and comparing equivalent quotes. Do not choose a bar length or accessory package solely to reduce the price if it does not match the intended work.