A used Stihl MS 390 typically costs $200-$500, with a serviceable saw averaging about $350; clean, well-maintained examples can list for more. The model is discontinued, so condition, included bar and chain, local availability, and repair needs matter more than a standard new retail price.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Used MS 390 | $200 | $350 | $500 | Running saw, ordinary wear |
| Non-running project saw | $75 | $150 | $250 | Repair risk; diagnosis needed |
| New old stock | $450 | $650 | $800+ | Uncommon; verify condition and seller |
| Common repair allowance | $50 | $150 | $350 | Parts and shop labor vary |
Price ranges reflect typical U.S. private-party and small-dealer listings; location and saw condition can shift results.
What a running Stihl MS 390 usually costs
For a saw that starts, idles, oils the chain, and cuts normally, buyers commonly pay $250-$450. Around $350 is a reasonable planning figure for a used MS 390 with a usable bar and chain, intact handles, and no obvious engine or oiling-system problems. A worn or incomplete example may fall below $200, while an unusually clean saw with accessories can reach $500 or more.
Because the MS 390 is no longer a current-production model, a new-in-box listing is not comparable to ordinary used pricing. New old stock can be priced at $450-$800 or higher, but a premium is not proof of value. Check storage condition, seller credibility, and whether the saw has actually been run.
Budget about $350 for a sound, ordinary used saw, then reserve money for inspection and wear parts.
Which parts of an MS 390 quote add up
A seller’s asking price may not include the cost of making an older saw ready for work. A shop inspection can identify problems before purchase, while a used chain, air filter, or spark plug may be routine upkeep rather than evidence of a major failure.
| Cost item | Low | Average | High | What changes the price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inspection or diagnosis | $30 | $60 | $100 | Shop minimum and testing time |
| Bar and chain | $45 | $85 | $150 | Bar length and component quality |
| Carburetor service | $60 | $130 | $250 | Cleaning versus replacement |
| Clutch or oiling repair | $75 | $175 | $350 | Parts availability and labor |
| Shipping or local pickup | $0 | $40 | $100 | Distance, packaging, and carrier |
A low purchase price can be misleading if the saw needs a carburetor, bar, chain, or safety repair.
Why bar length and engine condition change the price
The MS 390 is a roughly 64 cc gas chainsaw, and its intended workload and condition strongly affect what buyers should pay. A saw sold with a straight, serviceable 18-inch bar may be more useful than one with a longer worn bar, but bar length alone does not establish value. Check that the chain matches the bar and that the oil pump feeds oil during operation.
Engine symptoms deserve particular attention. Hard starting, low power, erratic idling, or visible damage can point to repairs that exceed a small tune-up. A seller may ask $100-$200 for a project saw, but that price is sensible only if the buyer can diagnose and repair it or has priced shop work into the budget.
For a used MS 390, verified compression, reliable starting, and working chain lubrication matter more than cosmetic condition.
How regional listings differ across the United States
Local supply and demand can move used prices roughly 10%-25% from the ranges above. In rural timber and firewood areas, more saws may be available, but buyers may also find stronger demand for working equipment. In large cities, fewer listings can mean higher asking prices and less opportunity to test a saw in person.
Shipping adds expense and risk because a used gas saw must be prepared and packed according to carrier rules. A $300 online listing can become a $350-$400 purchase after shipping and transaction charges. Local pickup allows a cold-start test and closer inspection, which may be worth more than a modest discount from a distant seller.
How much inspection and repair labor may cost
Small-engine shops commonly charge about $75-$125 per hour, with minimum diagnostic or service fees of roughly $30-$100. A basic tune-up may take 1-2 hours and cost about $100-$250 including common parts. More extensive engine work can run $250-$500 or more, depending on damage and parts availability.
Example: 1.5 labor hours × $90 per hour equals $135 in labor, before parts and shop fees.
Ask whether a quote includes parts, testing, and tax, and whether the shop will contact the owner before exceeding an estimate. On an older saw, compare the repair bill plus purchase price with the cost of another inspected unit.
Three MS 390 buying examples with different totals
| Scenario | Saw price | Added expense | Estimated total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Running saw, 18-inch bar, local pickup | $325 | $50 inspection | $375 |
| Used saw needing bar and chain | $250 | $85 bar and chain, $60 inspection | $395 |
| Project saw with carburetor service | $150 | $130 service, $40 parts | $320 |
These examples assume ordinary access to parts and no hidden engine damage. The project-saw total can rise quickly if diagnosis reveals a damaged cylinder or other major fault.
Compare the ready-to-cut total, not just the amount printed in the listing.
When repair beats replacing an older MS 390
A repair of $50-$150 is often reasonable for a sound saw that needs normal maintenance. A $300-$500 repair is harder to justify unless the engine and major components are confirmed healthy and the saw has value beyond its resale price. For a non-running listing, request a diagnosis or price it as a parts or repair project.
Before committing, compare the combined purchase and repair cost with other tested used saws in the area. A functioning alternative may cost more upfront but avoid uncertain labor and parts expense. Replacement parts availability and the buyer’s ability to complete repairs also affect the practical value of an MS 390.
Ways to keep the MS 390 purchase within budget
Set a maximum all-in price before negotiating. Test a cold start, warm restart, throttle response, chain brake, and oil delivery when possible. Inspect the bar rails, chain condition, starter, handles, and visible fuel or oil leaks, and ask what repairs have been done.
Choose a standard, serviceable bar length rather than paying extra for accessories that are worn or unnecessary. Compare at least two local listings, request a written shop estimate for known problems, and avoid paying a new-old-stock premium unless the saw’s condition and warranty terms are documented.
The most reliable savings come from verifying function before purchase and leaving room in the budget for routine wear items.