Stihl 084 Review: A Classic Chainsaw Still King in 2025

The Stihl 084 is a giant of a chainsaw with a 122 cc (7.44 cu in) engine that puts out 8.2 horsepower (6.03 kW). Stihl stopped making it in 1997 after 12 years but professionals and collectors still want one.

Why does the Stihl 084 AV still stand out in 2025? Power. Weighing 18.7 pounds as a powerhead this is still the go to saw for big trees and heavy milling. The specs back it up with a single cylinder engine that can rev to 12,000 RPM. Finding an original Stihl 084 is tough but collectors want this classic. Some enthusiasts manage to find complete units with a 36″ bar for around $400 using 2019 prices as a reference. In this review we will break down what makes the 084 Stihl chainsaw legendary 40 years after it was first introduced.

Stihl 084 AV: History and Changes

In 1985 Stihl released the 084 AV as a major step in chainsaw design. It replaced the 090 G and was built in Stuttgart Germany. This high-performance tool was in production until 1997 and is part of Stihl’s 1124 series.

The 084 AV had some big changes. It had an anti-vibration system and a inertia chain brake. These made it much easier and safer to use than the previous models. Stihl also added the Electronic Quickstop to all 084 versions to make it even safer for the user.

The 084 had a single cylinder engine that produced 8.6 hp from 121.6 cc displacement. The engine weighed 9.4 kg not too heavy for its class.

Over the years it was made the 084 earned a reputation of being tough. Its crankshaft was one of the most durable among big modern saws according to many experts. Another unique feature was the manual oiler override. This allowed the user to add more oil when needed beyond what the automatic system could provide.

The Stihl 084 was replaced by the 088 in 1997. The 088 was replaced by the MS880 in 2004 and then the MS881 in 2019. Although the 084 is no longer made its impact in chainsaw design is still felt by both collectors and professionals.

Real-World Performance and Where It’s Used

The 084 proves itself when put to work in tough jobs. With a 121.6cc engine and 6.3kW or 8.6hp it can do jobs that smaller saws can’t. People use it to cut big hardwood logs, huge stumps or bring down big spars.

“I have one to mill with. It has a 96″ bar and I run double 084s on it!” says a enthusiast who mills big hardwood logs. This kind of use shows how well the saw performs with heavy duty cutting.

Although it weighs 9.4kg many users say that using longer bars makes the 084 feel more balanced while cutting. This makes it a good option for long cutting jobs.

People who like high performance machines often upgrade their 084s with high flow air filters to stop the factory filters from clogging. The Buckshot Muffler with a dual ported aluminum faceplate increases performance and makes a sharper exhaust sound. Experts suggest making simple changes like adding a non limited three prong coil switching to a non limited HT1 carb and widening the exhaust outlet by about 15%.

The 084 isn’t just about power – it’s also about dependability and has earned the nickname “a dinosaur that’s hard to kill”. Although newer models like the MS 660 have similar power and weigh less the 084 is still a favorite among professionals who need raw power and tough reliability.

Stihl 084 Price and Parts Availability in 2025

Finding a Stihl 084 in 2025 is a challenge when searching the resale market. Used units on eBay range in price. Basic working units are $305, higher end units in great shape are $2,000. Longer bars cost more. 36″ bar units are $1,200 and 42″ bar units are $1,300.

If you want to buy parts instead of a whole unit now you’re in a tougher environment. Stihl no longer sells many OEM ignition coils and they are getting harder to find. The aftermarket has stepped up to the plate. Cross Performance sells cylinder kits with 60mm bores from $59.95 to $215.70. They also sell piston kits for the 084, 088 and MS880 for $23.99 to $29.99.

Plenty of parts can be swapped with the 088 and MS880. You can find stuff like Max Flow air filter systems for $85.46 to $104.95, chain sprocket covers for $27.47 to $52.99 and certain engine parts from niche sellers like HLS Pro Parts and Saw Zilla.

Collectors who keep their equipment running tend to hoard parts like mufflers which are getting harder to find. Some have noticed parts are being reproduced by Chinese manufacturers and others are making their own custom stainless steel mufflers since the original ones wear out fast.

Pros & Cons of Stihl 084

Pros:

• High Power: 121.6cc engine with 8.6 HP lots of power.
• Durable: Known for being tough and long lasting, hence the nickname “dinosaur that’s hard to kill”.
• Heavy Duty: Performs great with long bars (36″-42″) for milling and cutting big hardwood logs.
• Collector’s Item: Sought after by collectors because of its classic status and historical significance.

Cons:

• Weight: 9.4 kg, heavier than some modern saws which can be a pain to use for extended periods.
• Parts Availability: OEM parts are limited; aftermarket parts are available and some parts are compatible with MS 880 and 088.
• Obsolescence: Discontinued in 1997, hard to find a Stihl 084 in good condition.
• Lack of Modern Features: No electronic ignition and better fuel efficiency.

Competitor Comparison:

1. Stihl 084

• Engine Power: 121.6cc, 8.6 HP
• Weight: 9.4 kg
• Bar Length Compatibility: 36″ – 42″
• Best For: Heavy-duty milling, large hardwood logs, professional forestry tasks
• Availability: Discontinued in 1997; found in resale markets
• Price Range: $300 – $2,000 (condition-dependent)
• Aftermarket Parts: Limited OEM parts; MS 880 and 088 parts compatible

2. Husqvarna 390 XP

• Engine Power: 88cc, 6.5 HP
• Weight: 7.7 kg
• Bar Length Compatibility: Up to 36″
• Best For: Professional felling, bucking, and general forestry work
• Features: Air Injection™ centrifugal air cleaning system, LowVib® anti-vibration, Smart Start® technology
• Price Range: Moderate; condition and market dependent
• Aftermarket Parts: Available

3. Stihl MS 880

• Engine Power: 121.6cc, 8.4 HP
• Weight: 7.7 kg
• Bar Length Compatibility: Up to 72″
• Best For: Heavy duty cutting, milling, professional forestry
• Features: Electronic ignition, better fuel efficiency, less vibration
• Price Range: High end; premium price
• Aftermarket Parts: Wide availability

4. Echo CS-800P

• Engine Power: 80.7cc, 6.2 HP
• Weight: 7.6 kg
• Bar Length Compatibility: Up to 36″
• Best For: Mid to heavy use, budget conscious pros
• Features: Aluminum handle with rubber over-mold, automatic adjustable oiler with manual override
• Price Range: More affordable
• Aftermarket Parts: Limited availability

Final Thoughts

Even after all these years the Stihl 084 is a beast of a saw that commands respect from serious chainsaw users. The 121.6 cc engine still has an edge over many newer saws when it comes to the toughest cutting jobs. Its unbreakable crankshaft is why enthusiasts still seek out these discontinued saws three decades after they were made.

In my research I found that workers who need solid power to cut through big logs or handle demanding milling tasks still stick with the 084 instead of switching to newer saws. The weight might seem like a drawback but with longer bars it finds a sweet spot and feels easier to handle during long cutting jobs. Aftermarket parts availability has also kept many of these saws running way past when you’d think they’d wear out.

The 084 is still popular today where basic working ones sell for around $300 and pristine ones can go for up to $2,000. Original parts are hard to find now but the busy aftermarket and compatibility with 088 and MS880 parts keep these legendary saws alive and running even after all these years.

The 084 is a perfect mix of power, smart design and durability. Not many tools have such a loyal following so many years after being discontinued. This saw isn’t just a collector’s item; it’s a real workhorse that still shines in tasks where raw power is key. The 084 is proof that Stihl designs their saws well. It’s like an old giant that won’t fade away even in a world where most products are replaced.

Key Takeaways

The Stihl 084 is an iconic chainsaw. Even though it’s been out of production for 30 years it still beats modern saws in tough jobs.

• 121.6cc engine to handle heavy duty jobs like milling hardwood or cutting down big trees where smaller saws fail.
• 9.4kg may seem heavy but it feels well balanced with longer bars making it easier to use during long cuts.
• Price range $300-$2,000 depending on condition. Plenty of aftermarket parts to keep these running.
• Legendary crankshaft strength and design are why pros still choose the 084 over newer saws for hard jobs.
• Compatible with 088 and MS880 parts and a thriving aftermarket means these discontinued saws are still practical to use today.

The 084 shows how good engineering can create tools that are still useful and loved years after they’re made.

FAQs

• Q1. Why is the Stihl 084 so famous? The Stihl 084 has a 121.6 cc engine with 8.6 horsepower. This beast of an engine can handle big jobs like cutting big hardwood logs or taking down big trees with ease. The long lasting crankshaft is another reason why it’s legendary.
• Q2. Is the Stihl 084 still available to buy? The Stihl 084 is no longer made, but you can still find it on resale sites like eBay. Basic working models sell for around $300 and ones in good condition or with longer bars can go up to $2,000.
• Q3. How does the Stihl 084 compare to today’s chainsaws? Even though it’s no longer made, the Stihl 084 holds its own and often beats many modern chainsaws for heavy duty jobs. Its tough build and power makes it popular with pros for big cutting jobs, even though there are newer and lighter options available.
• Q4. Can I still find parts to fix a Stihl 084? Some original parts are no longer made but there are plenty of aftermarket options available. Parts from the 088 and MS880 also work with the 084 so you can keep it running. You can find components like cylinder kits and air filters through specialty stores or online marketplaces.
• Q5. What is the Stihl 084 used for? The Stihl 084 is good for big jobs like cutting big hardwood logs, leveling big stumps and taking down big trees. Its power and build makes it great for long cutting jobs and heavy duty professional work.