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STIHL introduce the MS 400.1

May 29, 2025/in Machinery, News, Press Release/by Admin

STIHL introduce the MS 400.1: Setting new standards in the 60cc class, the new MS 400.1 forestry chainsaw offers professionals the best power-to-weight ratio of any professional chainsaw on the market. Sitting in between the MS 261 C-M and MS 462 C-M, the new MS 400.1 replaces the existing MS 362 and MS 400.0 models […]

Andy Walker Retires After 49 Years the Howardson Group

May 29, 2025/in News, People, Press Release/by Admin

Andy Walker Retires After 49 Years the Howardson Group: After nearly five decades of dedicated service, Andy Walker, Field Support Manager at the Howardson Group, is set to retire, marking the end of an era for one of the industry’s most respected figures. Andy’s journey began in 1976 when, aged just 16, he walked into […]

STIHL introduce the MS 400.1

May 29, 2025/in Machinery, News, Press Release/by Admin

Andy Walker Retires After 49 Years the Howardson Group

May 29, 2025/in News, People, Press Release/by Admin

Full Sized Blog Element (Big Preview Pic)

STIHL introduce the MS 400.1

May 29, 2025/in Machinery, News, Press Release/by Admin

STIHL introduce the MS 400.1: Setting new standards in the 60cc class, the new MS 400.1 forestry chainsaw offers professionals the best power-to-weight ratio of any professional chainsaw on the market.

Sitting in between the MS 261 C-M and MS 462 C-M, the new MS 400.1 replaces the existing MS 362 and MS 400.0 models in the lineup. The MS 400.1 has been re-developed from the ground up and is a completely new machine, building on the strengths of the original MS 400 and taking it to the next level. The MS 400.1 weighs 5.5kg, 300g less than the original MS 400, and has a smaller engine displacement of 62.6cc. Despite this, the MS 400.1 still maintains an impressive power output of 3.9 kW, resulting in the best power-to-weight ratio of any petrol chainsaw available.

STIHL introduce the MS 400.1

A second advantage of the MS 400.1 is the 4.3Nm of torque. When cutting large timber, the saw is less pressure sensitive and less likely to bog down mid-cut. Like all STIHL professional petrol chainsaws, the MS 400.1 uses the latest M-Tronic technology, resulting in easy starting and super-fast acceleration.

As well as technical improvements to the engine, a larger magnesium flywheel and improved muffler help to keep the saw cool during operation. A new larger HD2 filter keeps the saw running in tough conditions and cuts down on maintenance and downtime during the working day.

The geometry of the rear handle has been improved for more comfortable handling, and the end profile has been widened to rest securely on the operator’s leg, resulting in easier plunge cutting. This, combined with the new compact design, makes the MS 400.1 exceptionally easy to handle.

The rib pattern on the underside has been optimised to make cleaning faster. It also helps the saw to glide along the trunk when snedding, preventing bark and twigs from getting caught.

Located on the petrol tank, the new 50% marker gives a quick indication of the total fuel level, helping the operator to keep track of their consumption and fill up efficiently.

STIHL have also improved access to the oil pump control bolt, meaning adjustments can be made with a standard combination tool rather than a specialist screwdriver.

For more information on the MS 400.1, visit www.stihl.co.uk.

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

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Andy Walker Retires After 49 Years the Howardson Group

May 29, 2025/in News, People, Press Release/by Admin

Andy Walker Retires After 49 Years the Howardson Group: After nearly five decades of dedicated service, Andy Walker, Field Support Manager at the Howardson Group, is set to retire, marking the end of an era for one of the industry’s most respected figures.

Andy’s journey began in 1976 when, aged just 16, he walked into the SISIS factory on a whim. When asked if he’d been sent from the job centre, he quickly said yes – even though he hadn’t. As luck would have it, the real candidate’s taxi never turned up, and Andy landed a one-month trial. It didn’t take long for him to “cut the mustard,” and he soon secured a permanent role.

Andy Walker Retires After 49 Years the Howardson Group

From humble beginnings on the shop floor, Andy’s ambition quickly became apparent. A chance conversation with a manager at a nearby engineering site led to an opportunity in the design engineering department, where Andy thrived. While working full-time, he also completed a five-year engineering course at Stockport Technology College and was later promoted to department manager.

In 1983, Andy took a new path into sales – a move that would define much of his career. After twelve years, he stepped into the role of Product Evaluation Manager, using his deep technical knowledge to test and refine new equipment before it went to market. By 2009, he had taken on the title of Field Support Manager – a role in which he became a true ambassador for both the Dennis and SISIS brands.

When SISIS was acquired by the Howardson Group in 2011, Andy welcomed the change. “It was the best thing that could have happened,” he said. “Dennis and SISIS complement each other perfectly. It was a natural fit, and we’ve only gone from strength to strength since.”

Andy’s career has taken him across the globe – from the UK’s bowling greens to Premier League football stadiums, and everywhere in between. He’s delivered product demonstrations, led mower seminars, and worked with clients from grassroots clubs to government ministers. He’s visited every continent – highlights include a visit to Pearl Harbor in Hawaii and a memorable trip to Alcatraz during a stateside demo tour.

One of his proudest achievements was working closely with Manchester City FC. As a lifelong City fan, being part of that project was a personal and professional highlight. “It was a lot of back and forth, a lot of tweaking and testing, but we got there. They ordered over 20 machines.”

Beyond the travel and product launches, it’s the people that have made the journey worthwhile. “It’s a lovely industry to work in,” Andy reflected. “You meet such a range – from people at local bowling greens to heads of sports facilities all over the world. And I’ve been lucky to work with some great colleagues who’ve become lifelong friends.”

Among those he’s closest to is Ben Lloyd, who Andy’s worked alongside for over 20 years. “I’ve probably spent more time with him than anyone else in recent years. We’ve shared some graft, plenty of laughs – and I’ll leave it at that!”

But when asked who deserves the biggest thank you, Andy’s answer is simple: his wife, Linda. “She’s the one who made it all possible. In the early years, I’d be away for three months of the year. With two young daughters at home, she held everything together. I owe her everything.”

As he steps into retirement, Andy plans to thank Linda properly – starting with a tour of the British coastline in their caravan, followed by road trips through France and Spain. “It’s time for our own adventure,” he says.

Andy leaves behind an incredible legacy – 49 years, countless miles travelled, and a lasting impact on turf care both at home and abroad.

“I never dreaded going to work. That’s the truth of it. I’ve had a blast.”

For further information visit www.howardsongroup.com

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

Half Sized Blog Element (Single Author Style)

Half Sized Blog Element (Multi Author Style)

STIHL introduce the MS 400.1

STIHL introduce the MS 400.1

Full Sized Blog Element (Big Preview Pic)

STIHL introduce the MS 400.1

STIHL introduce the MS 400.1: Setting new standards in the 60cc class, the new MS 400.1 forestry chainsaw offers professionals the best power-to-weight ratio of any professional chainsaw on the market.

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