STIHL 26RS 81 Rapid Super Chainsaw Chain 20in - Aggressive, Durable

In this review the STIHL 26RS 81 Rapid Super Chainsaw Chain for 20in bars is evaluated as a direct replacement chain for select Stihl saws. The bottom line: this is a genuine Stihl chain built for fast, aggressive cutting and long life between sharpenings, making it a strong choice for professionals and serious homeowners who need reliable performance. The review focuses on fit, cutting performance and durability based on product details and user feedback indicating clean cuts, consistent sharpness, and good value for money.

Key Features

• Genuine Stihl construction: The chain is an OEM-style part so it fits Stihl specifications and gives consistent, factory-grade performance when matched to compatible saws.
• .325 pitch: The.325 pitch balances cutting speed and control, making the chain suitable for both limb work and felling medium timber.
• .063 gauge: The thicker.063 gauge provides stiffness and stability for aggressive cutting and longer intervals between sharpening.
• 81 drivers configuration: The 81 driver drive links are designed for smooth engagement with the bar and sprocket, reducing bounce and improving feed.
• 20in length compatibility: Precisely made for 20in bars to ensure accurate tensioning and secure fit on the listed Stihl models.

Who It's For

This chain is best for owners of compatible Stihl chainsaws such as 024, 026, 028, 034, 036, MS241, MS260, MS261, MS270, MS271, MS290 and MS291 who run a 20in bar and need a replacement that mirrors factory performance. It suits landscapers, arborists and property owners who cut regularly and value a chain that stays sharp and cuts aggressively.

Those who should look elsewhere include casual users with only occasional small pruning tasks or owners of non-Stihl saw models or different bar lengths; they should match pitch, gauge and driver count to their specific saw and bar instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Genuine Stihl build quality gives consistent, dependable cutting performance and a good fit on compatible models.
• Customers report the chain cuts cleanly and stays sharp longer, reducing time spent sharpening.
• The.325 pitch and.063 gauge balance cutting speed with durability for aggressive work.

Cons

• Only fits specific Stihl models and a 20in bar, so it is not a universal replacement for other saw brands or bar lengths.

Specifications

Brand	Stihl
Model	26RS 81 Rapid Super
Compatible Bar Length	20in
Pitch	.325
Gauge	.063
Drive Links	81
Fits Stihl Models	024, 026, 028, 034, 036, MS241, MS260, MS261, MS270, MS271, MS290, MS291

Our Verdict

The STIHL 26RS 81 Rapid Super chain is a practical, authentic replacement for owners of compatible Stihl saws who need an aggressive, durable cutter on a 20in bar. It offers strong cut quality, good longevity between sharpenings and reliable fit, making it good value for professionals and dedicated homeowners who want predictable factory-grade performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this chain fit my Stihl MS271 with a 20in bar?
Yes, the chain is specified to fit MS271 models when used with a 20in bar and matching pitch and gauge.

What pitch and gauge does this chain use?
The chain uses a.325 pitch and a.063 gauge.

Is this an original Stihl part?
The product is sold as a genuine Stihl-style chain built to meet Stihl specifications for fit and cutting performance.