In this series of articles, we will be sharing exclusive coverage from APF 2024. 

IN contrast to its long-time rival, Stihl had gone for a more ‘traditional’ (but no less impressive) approach. The forestry centrepiece of its popular stand – on which visitors could even get a haircut – was its new MS 400 C. 

A 62.6 CC chainsaw, it is due to be launched in 2025 and will provide a middle ground between the manufacturer’s current MS 362 and MS 400. 

Paul Hicks, Stihl’s marketing and product manager, said: “It retains the power of 3.9 kW, which is pretty much the same as the 4 kW on the existing MS 400. But we have managed to reduce the weight of the machine by 300 g and lower the CCs so we have the best power-to-weight ratio in the 60 CC saw class. 

“We are really excited to get the saw to market. It’s not a revision of a previous MS 362 or MS 400.

Paul Hicks, Stihl’s marketing and product managerPaul Hicks, Stihl’s marketing and product manager (Image: FJ/AG)

"It has been built from the ground up.” 

Equally first-rate during the show was Stihl's arb offering, which, as always, enjoyed a healthy rivalry with Husqy (to the point where flags from both appeared on the other’s stand on the Saturday morning). On its own space, it displayed a wealth of new products (most of them aimed at forestry). 

As for its arb machinery, its first professional battery-powered pruner – the GTA 40 – was very much the focal point. 

Complete with a 6” Stihl Light 01 guide bar with low friction sprocket nose, and a narrow Stihl 1/4” Picco Micro 3 saw chain, the pruner is said to ensure a smooth cut, and impressed during a demonstration for eA. 

“We have a lot of products in the AS range using these batteries already,” said Paul. “This is our first double battery, professional grade pruner. 

Paul demonstrates the GTA 40Paul demonstrates the GTA 40 (Image: FJ/AG)

“It’s certified for climbing. If you are an arborist, you can use it up the tree. It’s a really, really good tool.

“We have had a more domestic pruner in the range for a while with a guard on the top. The GTA 40 is more for arborists.” 

Head to our YouTube channel to watch a full version of this interview, which will be published in the coming weeks.