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STIHL MS 500i Centennial Edition – 100 Years of Innovation

02/11/2026
100 Years Chainsaw Special

STIHL MS 500i Centennial Edition – 100 Years of Innovation

To celebrate 100 years of engineering and craftsmanship, STIHL has released a special limited edition of one of its flagship professional chainsaws, the MS 500i. This Centennial Edition pays tribute to a century of innovation by combining cutting-edge technology with a striking new design.

The original MS 500i is renowned as one of the most advanced petrol chainsaws ever developed. It was the world’s first chainsaw equipped with an electronically controlled fuel injection system, a feature that provides exceptionally smooth starts and consistent power delivery under all conditions. The Centennial Edition builds on this heritage with unique styling and commemorative detailing that mark an important milestone in STIHL’s history.

Performance That Still Leads the Industry

The MS 500i is engineered for demanding cutting tasks. Its intelligent fuel injection system delivers rapid acceleration and optimised engine performance without the need for a traditional carburettor. This results in strong torque across a wide range of conditions, reduced fuel consumption, and lower exhaust emissions compared with older designs. The advanced engine technology contributes to performance that professionals have come to rely on.

Traditionally, professional users and serious enthusiasts appreciate a chainsaw that starts easily, responds instantly to the throttle, and sustains its power throughout sustained cutting work. The MS 500i Centennial Edition retains these characteristics while delivering a bold new appearance that reflects STIHL’s century of innovation.

What Makes the Centennial Edition Special

The Centennial Edition is distinguished by its exclusive design and limited availability. It has been produced in a special colourway and includes commemorative elements that set it apart from standard models. Although the mechanical specifications remain consistent with the regular MS 500i — known for its excellent power-to-weight ratio and high cutting performance — the visual and thematic presentation makes this edition particularly appealing to collectors and fans of the brand as well as professionals seeking something unique in their toolbox.

One of the biggest draws of this edition is its status as a limited release. Special production runs like this are typically available in smaller quantities and may be distributed through select channels. For enthusiasts or professionals looking to mark STIHL’s centenary with a standout machine, this edition holds particular appeal.

Professional Features You Expect

Like the standard MS 500i, the Centennial Edition comes with features designed to enhance usability and reliability:

  • Electronically controlled fuel injection for consistent power and easy starting

  • High power-to-weight ratio for agile handling

  • Smooth engine performance across a range of cutting conditions

  • Practical design elements to support extended use

These characteristics make the MS 500i well suited for heavy cutting, forestry work, and demanding professional applications where reliability and performance are essential.

Why This Matters for UK Users

For UK forestry workers, arborists, and serious garden users, STIHL products represent a combination of engineering excellence and long-term dependability. A chainsaw like the MS 500i has become a benchmark in the industry, and this special edition underscores the brand’s enduring presence in outdoor power tools.

The limited nature of the Centennial Edition adds appeal not just from a technical performance perspective but also as a commemorative tool that marks a significant chapter in STIHL’s history. Whether you are a professional user or a collector of notable outdoor power equipment, this edition brings heritage and high performance together.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is special about the MS 500i Centennial Edition?

It is a limited-edition version of the MS 500i chainsaw released to commemorate 100 years of STIHL innovation, featuring a unique design and exclusive presentation.

Does the Centennial Edition perform differently from the standard MS 500i?

Mechanically, it shares the same advanced features as the standard MS 500i, including electronic fuel injection and high power-to-weight performance. The primary difference is in its limited-edition styling and commemorative features.

Why is the MS 500i significant?

The MS 500i was the first chainsaw to use electronic fuel injection, which provides instant throttle response and consistent power delivery across varied conditions.

Is the Centennial Edition widely available?

Limited editions are typically produced in smaller quantities and may be available through select specialist dealers.

Final Thoughts

The STIHL MS 500i Centennial Edition stands as a remarkable tribute to a century of product development in outdoor power equipment. It pairs world-class performance with a distinctive presentation that reflects the heritage of a brand trusted by professionals and enthusiasts alike.

At Gayways Ltd, we recognise the value of tools that combine proven engineering with innovation. If you are interested in learning more about the MS 500i or other high-performance chainsaws, our team is here to offer expertise and guidance.