Abstract: The invention is directed to an exhaust gas muffler for a two-cycle engine, especially for a handheld portable tool, such as a chain saw. In exhaust gas mufflers equipped with a catalyzer, the formation of flame from the fuel-containing exhaust gases exiting from the muffler must be prevented. These exhaust gases are intensely overheated because of the exothermal process in the catalyzer. The muffler according to the invention includes a catalyzer which establishes a connection between separate component chambers of the muffler housing. The muffler can be mounted directly on the motor outlet.