WE ARE PROUD TO BE INDEPENDENT AND IN NO WAY ASSOCIATED WITH MANUFACTURERS. TO STAY UNBIASED, WE DO NOT ACCEPT FREE PRODUCTS. WE EARN FROM ADVERTISING FEES PAID BY EBAY, ACE HARDWARE, NORTHERN TOOL OR FARM & FLEET ON QUALIFYING PURCHASES.

Stihl BG 86 C-E - 444 CFM Gas Handheld Blower Vac

The Stihl BG 86 C-E is a 2-in-1 blower/vacuum delivering 444 CFM at 190 MPH. It features a 2-cycle 27.2cc engine. (Read full specs)

Compare ShortlistShortlistedRemoved from shortlist 64
Stihl BG 86 C-E 444 CFM Gas Blower Vac
According to Stihl's Internet Sales Policy (opens in a new tab), it is not possible to ship a NEW Stihl product in the USA. The only way to get the Stihl BG 86 C-E shipped to your place is to get it second hand or refurbished on eBay. Online stores such as Ace Hardware, Northern Tool, and Farm & Fleet (links below) may allow online purchase and in-store pickup of Stihl products.

Features and Specifications

Type
Type Gas-Powered
Handling Handheld
CFM Up to 444
MPH Up to 190
Blowing Force 15 N
Engine
Make 2-MIX
Engine displacement 27.2cc
Strokes 2
Fuel/oil ratio 50:1
Speed settings Variable
Features
Cruise controlYes
Fuel tank 14.9 fl. oz.
Vacuum Yes
Mulcher No
Misc
Weight 9.9 lbs
Noise rating 70 dB
Warranty 2 years

Unlike many websites, we did our best to research each of the specs above. That being said, we are not immune to making the occasional mistake or omission. Should you notice any missing or incorrect values, don't hesitate to suggest improvements so we can address the issue. Should you wish more detailed specs on the Stihl BG 86 C-E, the user manual is available here (opens in a new tab).

Spec Improvement×

This form does not send us any personal data (not even your IP address)

Description

Ultimate power meets ultimate simplicity. The STIHL BG 86 C-E is the best of both worlds, offering the same no-compromise power and comfort found in the BG 86, but with the Easy2Start™ technology. Now, starting the engine is fast and easy for just about anyone – just a long slow pull of the start cord instead of a hard jerk. To make it even easier, this blower has the simplified starting system that incorporates a specialized stop switch that automatically returns to the start position, as well as a semi-automatic choke lever that helps prevent accidental flooding. And just like the BG 86, this blower comes with both flat and round nozzles for better versatility on the job. (source: Stihl)

Overview of the Stihl BG 86 C-E

The Stihl BG 86 C-E in use

The Stihl BG 86 C-E

  • Power: The Stihl BG 86 C-E is a gas-powered blower with a maximum air volume rating of 444 cubic feet per minute (CFM) and an air speed of 190 MPH.
  • Handling: Ideal for those seeking a compact and portable leaf blower, this model provides ease of handling and use, making it a convenient choice for any task. The Stihl BG 86 C-E weighs 9.9 lbs, placing it within the average weight range for gas-powered handheld blowers, neither the lightest nor the heaviest in its category.
  • Engine: This blower's 2-MIX engine has a displacement specification of 27.2cc. Given its 2-cycle design, it's essential to mix gasoline and oil correctly for the unit's engine. The proper fuel ratio set by the manufacturer for the BG 86 C-E is 50:1.
  • Speed Settings: Users seeking ease of use will appreciate the BG 86 C-E's variable speed settings for precise airflow adjustment and cruise control for consistent operation.
  • Vacuum: Not just a blower, the BG 86 C-E offers the convenience of a built-in vacuum feature, allowing users to tidy up their outdoor spaces by effortlessly collecting leaves and debris into an attached bag (vacuum kit and bag not included).
  • Noise: With a decibel rating of 70 dB, the BG 86 C-E is neither louder nor quieter than its rivals in the gas-powered handheld category.
  • Fuel Tank: With a capacity of 14.9 fl. oz., this Stihl blower is average compared to other gas handheld blowers.
  • Easy2Start™: The BG 86 C-E has the letter “E” in its name, which is Stihl’s indication that it benefits from Stihl’s proprietary Easy2Start™ (also called “ErgoStart”) technology. As the name suggests, this technology makes the starter mechanism more reliable thanks to an additional spring between the crankshaft and the starter rope. Upon pulling the starter rope, the engine will attempt to start regardless of how hard the rope was pulled – even a simple two-finger pull is sufficient to start it. Easy2Start™ allows the BG 86 C-E to be started with remarkably less effort than most other blowers.

Product Videos

The Stihl BG 86 C-E's performance versus other blowers

The following charts are provided to give you an idea how the key specs of the Stihl BG 86 C-E compare with similar leaf blowers.

  • Forced air exiting this blower has been clocked at a max speed of 190 MPH. This puts the BG 86 C-E ahead of the pack as far as air speed is concerned in gas-powered handheld blowers. If you wish to benefit from air expelled at the fastest possible speed, the Craftsman BV2500 and its 250 MPH could be an option to consider.
  • Regarding its air volume, the airflow of the Stihl BG 86 C-E can reach 444 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute), which is on par with other gas-powered handheld blowers. If air volume is important to you, the Ryobi JET FAN RY25AXB, with 520 CFM, could be in your good books.

Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:

Price comparison

As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other blower vacs, the Stihl BG 86 C-E is on the average side of the price range.

Therefore, this blower nicely fits in the expected budget for this kind of product.

2-Mix Engine Technology

Stihl's 2-Mix engine is a more eco-friendly and powerful approach to the traditional 2-stroke engine. It features what Stihl calls "stratified scavenging", which simply means that a layer of air is created between the combustion chamber and the crankcase. This action allows the engine to separate fresh fuel from the exhaust, which in turn minimizes the scavenging losses and eliminates the components of the mix that pose a health and environmental hazard (compliant with European Emissions Directive, Stage II). The 2-Mix engine offers a high torque over a wide speed range, a fuel consumption up to 20% lower than conventional 2-cycle engines, and fewer harmful emissions.

The bottom line

STRENGTHS:
  • In the expected price range
  • Cruise control
  • Easy2Start™ technology
  • 2-Mix Engine
  • High MPH (190 MPH)
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent weight (9.9 lbs)
  • Decent tank (14.9 fl. oz.)
  • Acceptable noise (70 dB)
  • Decent CFM (444 CFM)
WEAKNESSES:
  • Leaf collection bag not included

Do you own the Stihl BG 86 C-E and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?

Let us know and write your own review.

About Stihl

Stihl AG & Company KG was founded by Andreas Stihl in 1926. The German company specializes in handheld outdoor power equipment. Over the past fifty years, Stihl has opened manufacturing plants in Brazil, the United States, and China. The German company’s sure and steady expansion has made it a leading provider of in the lawn, forestry, and landscape maintenance industries.

Warranty Information

The Stihl BG 86 C-E is covered under a warranty for up to 2 years. This warranty may not cover all parts of the blower.
For more information about the warranty of Stihl blowers, please consult Stihl's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-800-467-8445.

Questions & Answers

My Leaf blower has lost power! I have replaced the plug but to no avail. The air filter is not dirty. (Asked August 22, 2019)

Try to check the carburetor and the muffler, as indicated page 22 of the owner's manual. You can also have a look at our troubleshooting guide.

What is the spark plug gap on the Stihl leaf blower BG 86/C. (Asked September 30, 2021)

The electrode gap is 0.020 in.

Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.

Ask a question

Your name and email address will not be publicly published. We only need them to be able to answer you directly

We would love to know your opinion

Leave a review

Your total score

Leaf Blower Guide
Logo
Compare items
  • Total (0)
Compare

You can compare as many blowers as you wish. However, for the best results, we recommend you to compare only 2 blowers at a time.

0