FS 120, FS 120 R, FS 200, FS 250, FS 250 R
English
3
The terminology utilized in this manual 
when referring to the power tool reflects 
the fact that different types of cutting 
attachments may be mounted on it. The 
term "trimmer" is used to designate an 
FS unit that is equipped with a nylon line 
head or a head with flexible plastic 
blades (i.e., the PolyCut head). A 
"brushcutter" designates a unit 
equipped with a rigid metal blade. Many 
FS models may be used as either a 
trimmer or a brushcutter – therefore, the 
power tool is referred in this manual as a 
"trimmer / brushcutter." Some smaller 
and / or lightweight FS models may only 
be used as a trimmer, i.e., they may not 
be used with metal blades.
The term "clearing saw" indicates a 
high-powered trimmer / brushcutter that 
is particularly suited for use with a 
circular saw blade to clear saplings or 
small trees.
FS models with an "R" on the nameplate 
were originally configured (at the time of 
distribution) as a trimmer with a loop 
handle.
Have your STIHL dealer show you how 
to operate your power tool. Observe all 
applicable local safety regulations, 
standards and ordinances.
Use your trimmer / brushcutter equipped 
with the appropriate cutting attachment 
only for cutting grass, brush, wood and 
similar material.
Safety Precautions and 
Working Techniques
Because a trimmer / 
brushcutter is a high-
speed, fast-cutting power 
tool sometimes equipped 
with sharp cutting blades, 
special safety precau
-
tions must be observed to 
reduce the risk of per
-
sonal injury.
It is important that you 
read, fully understand 
and observe the following 
safety precautions and 
warnings. Read the 
instruction manual and 
the safety precautions 
periodically. Careless or 
improper use may cause 
serious or fatal injury.
Warning!
As more fully explained later in these 
Safety Precautions, to reduce the risk of 
personal injury, make sure your unit is 
equipped with the proper handle, har
-
ness and deflector for the type of cutting 
attachment you are using. Use only cut
-
ting attachments that are specifically 
authorized by STIHL for use on your FS 
model.
Warning!
Do not lend or rent your power tool with
-
out the instruction manual. Be sure that 
anyone using it understands the infor
-
mation contained in this manual.
Warning!
The use of this machine may be hazard
-
ous. If the rotating line or blade comes in 
contact with your body, it will cut you. 
When it comes in contact with solid for
-
eign objects such as rocks or bits of 
metal, it may fling them directly or by ric
-
ochet in the direction of bystanders or 
the operator. Striking such objects could 
damage the cutting attachment and may 
cause blades to crack, chip or break. 
Thrown objects, including broken heads 
or blades, may result in serious or fatal 
injury to the operator or bystanders. 
STIHL does not recommend the use of 
rigid blades when cutting in stony areas.
Warning!
Do not use it for other purposes, since 
misuse may result in personal injury or 
property damage, including damage to 
the machine.
Warning!
Minors should never be allowed to use 
this power tool. Bystanders, especially 
children, and animals should not be 
allowed in the area where it is in use.