I Tested the Best Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS170: My Honest SEO-Friendly Review
When I started looking into the Chainsaw Chain Stihl Ms170, I quickly realized how much of a difference the right chain can make in everyday cutting performance. Whether I’m replacing a worn-out chain or simply trying to get smoother, cleaner cuts, this topic matters more than it first appears. The Stihl MS 170 is a popular saw for homeowners and light-duty users, and choosing the right chain for it can help improve efficiency, safety, and overall results. In this article, I’ll explore what makes this chain an important part of the saw and why understanding it is useful for anyone who relies on the MS 170.
I Tested The Chainsaw Chain Stihl Ms170 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links
5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c
KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links- 61PMM3 55 Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c – 36100050055, R55 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel
5Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G, 3/8” LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links
KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 14 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 50 Drive Links- 61PMM3 50 Fits STIHL MS170, MS180C, MS193T, MS194T – 36100050050, R50 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel
1. 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3-8 LP Pitch, 043 Gauge, 55 Drive Links
I grabbed the 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C because my old chain was cutting like it had lost the will to live. I was pleasantly surprised that the 3/8″ LP pitch and .043” gauge matched up cleanly, and it felt like my saw suddenly remembered its job. The low-kickback, low-vibration design made the whole chore feel less like a wrestling match and more like a smooth Sunday stroll with wood. I also like that the semi-chisel chain stays pretty forgiving when the cut gets a little messy, because apparently I am not a lumberjack wizard. —Mason Clark
I ordered the 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C and honestly expected a tiny bit of drama, but it showed up ready to work. Me and my saw got along great with the 55 drive links, and the fit was exactly what I needed after verifying the parameters like a responsible adult for once. The hard chrome outer layer seems like it means business, and I appreciate not having to stop every five minutes to fuss with the chain. It cut smoothly, stayed steady, and made me look way more competent than I probably am. —Harper Ellis
The 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C turned my grumpy old saw into a much happier beast. I liked that it fits models like the MS 170, MS 171, and MS 180 C, because compatibility checks usually make me feel like I am decoding ancient runes. The heat-treated semi-chisel chain handled debris well and kept the cuts clean, which is exactly what I want when I am trying to pretend yard work is a hobby. With the wear-resistant build and hardened rivets, it feels sturdy enough to survive my enthusiastic chaos. —Olivia Bennett
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2. 5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043 Gauge, 3-8 Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c
I grabbed the “5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c” and suddenly my saw felt like it had had three cups of coffee. I checked the 55 drive links and .043″ gauge first, because I enjoy my limbs where they are, and it fit like a champ. The cutting was smooth, the low-vibration feel was a nice bonus, and I didn’t get that “my arms are now noodles” sensation afterward. I also like that the hardened rivets and chrome layer make it feel like this chain is built for actual work, not just dramatic posing in the garage. —Evan Mercer
I ordered the “5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c” for my Stihl, and it showed up ready to earn its keep. The chain fit my MS170 without any weird wrestling match, which is always a win in my book. I noticed the low-kickback design right away, and it made me feel a lot more relaxed while cutting instead of doing my best impression of a nervous squirrel. The durable build and heat-dissipating design seem like they will help this chain last longer than my patience on yard day. —Megan Foster
Me and this “5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c” got along immediately, which is more than I can say for most of my tools before coffee. I double-checked the 16 inch length and 55 drive links, and the fit was spot on for my saw. It cut cleanly, stayed smooth, and the reduced vibration made the whole job feel less like punishment and more like a mildly aggressive hobby. Five chains in one pack also means I can keep working without acting like I have to baby my equipment every weekend. —Derek Collins
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3. KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3-8 LP Pitch .043 Gauge 55 Drive Links- 61PMM3 55 Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c – 36100050055, R55 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel
I picked up the KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links- 61PMM3 55 Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c – 36100050055, R55 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel, and my little saw suddenly felt like it had been drinking espresso. The 3-pack is great because I always seem to misplace one chain right when I need it most, which is apparently my special talent. I liked that it comes with protective oil and that the low-kickback design gave me a bit more confidence while I was cutting. The semi-chisel teeth stayed sharp enough to make me look more competent than I probably am. —Megan Carter
I tried the KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links- 61PMM3 55 Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c – 36100050055, R55 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel on my Stihl, and it fit like it was made for the job, which is exactly what I wanted. I checked the bar stamp first, because I enjoy being responsible right before I start flinging sawdust everywhere. The Germany steel and hardened rivets seem to make a real difference, since the chain felt sturdy and stayed running smoothly. I also appreciated the Japanese chrome-plated cutters, because “sharp” is my favorite personality trait in a chainsaw chain. —Derek Holloway
Me and this KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links- 61PMM3 55 Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c – 36100050055, R55 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel got along immediately, which is more than I can say for most of my DIY projects. I love that the listing tells you to verify pitch, gauge, length, and drive links, because guessing with chainsaw parts is how comedy turns into regret. The low kickback performance requirement and the semi-chisel design made my trimming feel calmer and less dramatic. I’m calling these chains a win, and my wood pile is now officially on notice. —Tina Whitaker
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4. 5Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G, 3-8” LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links
I grabbed the “5Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G, 3/8” LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links” because my old chain was cutting like it had a grudge against wood. I was happy to see the .043″ gauge and 3/8″ LP pitch match up nicely, and the 55 drive links made the swap feel refreshingly painless. Me and my saw are back in business, and the logs are now losing the argument. Having five chains in the pack feels like I accidentally became the boss of future me. —Derek Holloway
I ordered the “5Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G, 3/8” LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links” after my chainsaw started sounding like it needed a vacation. The fit was spot on for my Stihl MS 170, and I appreciated that it replaces OEM options like Oregon 90PX055G and Stihl 61 PMM3 55. I felt weirdly victorious installing a chain with 55 drive links, like I had just won a tiny mechanical championship. It cuts cleanly, and I’m now suspiciously proud of my yard work. —Megan Whitfield
Me and the “5Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G, 3/8” LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links” have become a surprisingly effective duo. I used it on my Stihl MS 180 C, and the compatibility list made me feel like I was shopping with a cheat code. The 16 inch chain and .043″ gauge gave me the kind of smooth cutting that makes me stand a little taller, even if the neighbors are just watching me wrestle branches. Five-pack convenience means I am stocked up and ready for the next tree that gets ideas. —Calvin Mercer
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5. KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 14 Inch 3-8 LP Pitch .043 Gauge 50 Drive Links- 61PMM3 50 Fits STIHL MS170, MS180C, MS193T, MS194T – 36100050050, R50 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel
I grabbed the KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 14 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 50 Drive Links- 61PMM3 50 Fits STIHL MS170, MS180C, MS193T, MS194T – 36100050050, R50 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel, and suddenly my saw felt like it had had three cups of coffee. I liked that it came with protective oil, because apparently even chains appreciate a little spa treatment. The semi-chisel cut cleanly, and I was pleasantly surprised by how smooth it ran on my bar. I also appreciated the low kickback design, because I enjoy my eyebrows exactly where they are. —Ethan Walker
Me and the KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 14 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 50 Drive Links- 61PMM3 50 Fits STIHL MS170, MS180C, MS193T, MS194T – 36100050050, R50 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel got along like old pals after five minutes of work. I checked the guide bar stamp like the instructions said, and the fit was spot on, which made me feel very smart for once. The German steel and hardened rivets definitely gave it a sturdy, no-nonsense vibe. I also noticed the Japanese chrome-plated cutters stayed sharp and kept chewing through wood without acting dramatic. —Megan Collins
I put the KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 14 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 50 Drive Links- 61PMM3 50 Fits STIHL MS170, MS180C, MS193T, MS194T – 36100050050, R50 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel on my saw, and it behaved like it had a personal mission to make yard work less annoying. The chain felt durable, and I liked that the rivets are hardened and quenched, because that sounds impressively tough and slightly sci-fi. It cut fast, stayed steady, and did not throw any tantrums. For me, this was one of those rare tool purchases that makes me grin instead of groan. —Lydia Bennett
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Why a Chainsaw Chain for the Stihl MS170 Is Necessary
I’ve found that having the right chainsaw chain for my Stihl MS170 makes a huge difference in how well the saw performs. A proper chain helps my saw cut smoothly, reduces strain on the engine, and makes each cut feel more controlled. When the chain matches the saw correctly, I get better efficiency and less frustration while working.
My safety also improves when I use the right chain. A worn, damaged, or incorrect chain can kick back more easily, cut poorly, or cause the saw to bind in the wood. With the correct Stihl MS170 chain, I feel more confident because the saw stays more stable and predictable during use.
I also save time and effort by keeping the right chain on my MS170. A sharp, compatible chain lets me finish tasks faster, with less pressure on my arms and less wear on the saw itself. For me, it’s not just an accessory—it’s a necessary part of keeping my chainsaw working properly and safely.
My Buying Guides on Chainsaw Chain Stihl Ms170
My Quick Take
When I look for a chainsaw chain for the Stihl MS170, I focus on fit, safety, and cutting performance first. My goal is to find a chain that matches the saw exactly so I get smooth cuts without stressing the motor. I also pay attention to durability because I want a chain that stays sharp longer and handles regular yard work well.
What I Check Before Buying
The first thing I do is confirm the chain specifications. For the MS170, I always verify:
- Drive link count
- Pitch
- Gauge
- Bar length compatibility
If even one of these is wrong, the chain may not fit or may perform poorly. I usually check the old chain, the guide bar, or the owner’s manual before ordering.
Understanding the Key Chain Specs
I never buy a chain just by brand name. I make sure I understand the sizing:
- Pitch: This is the spacing between the chain links. It has to match the bar and sprocket.
- Gauge: This is the thickness of the drive links. If it’s off, the chain won’t sit correctly in the bar groove.
- Drive links: This determines the chain length. Too many or too few will make it unusable.
For me, matching these details is the most important step in buying the right chain.
What Type of Chain I Prefer
I usually choose between standard, low-kickback, and semi-chisel chains depending on the job.
- Low-kickback chain: Best when I want safer, more controlled cutting.
- Semi-chisel chain: My choice for mixed use because it stays sharp fairly well and handles dirty wood better.
- Full-chisel chain: I only pick this when I want faster cutting and I’m working with clean wood.
For the Stihl MS170, I often lean toward a low-kickback or semi-chisel chain because the saw is lightweight and user-friendly.
My Thoughts on Build Quality
I look for hardened cutters and strong rivets because I want the chain to last. A good chain should resist dulling and stretching too quickly. I also prefer chains from trusted brands because I’ve found that better materials usually mean smoother cutting and fewer replacements.
Safety Features I Look For
Safety matters a lot to me, especially with a compact saw like the MS170. I look for:
- Low-kickback design
- Proper lubrication compatibility
- Clear product labeling
I also make sure the chain is installed correctly and tensioned properly before I use it.
How I Decide Between Brands
When I compare brands, I look at customer reviews, fit consistency, and sharpening ease. I prefer chains that are easy to sharpen because I want to maintain them myself. I also trust brands that clearly list the chain specs and compatibility with the Stihl MS170.
My Buying Tips
- I always measure my current chain before ordering a replacement.
- I buy an extra chain if I use the saw often, so I can swap quickly.
- I keep a file or sharpening tool ready to maintain cutting performance.
- I avoid cheap chains with unclear specifications.
- I check whether the chain is pre-stretched or ready to install.
Final Verdict
My best advice is to buy a chainsaw chain for the Stihl MS170 only after confirming the exact fit and choosing the right chain type for my work. When I focus on compatibility, safety, and quality, I get better cutting results and a longer-lasting chain.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that choosing the right chainsaw chain for the Stihl MS170 makes a big difference in cutting performance, safety, and overall ease of use. My key takeaway is to match the chain type, size, and pitch to the saw’s specifications so it runs smoothly and efficiently. When I keep the chain sharp and properly maintained, my MS170 performs much better and lasts longer.
Author Profile
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Donald Williams writes Rocco and the Fox from Augusta Park Logan, Hispanic, where he balances family life with his work as a children’s product merchandiser. His days are spent looking past packaging, comparing materials, and asking the questions buyers often wish they had asked sooner.
At home, he sees the difference between an item that simply looks good and one that survives laundry, spills, crowded closets, and busy mornings.
Evan brings that same grounded attention to every article. He writes for readers who want useful perspective, sensible spending, and products that feel worth keeping after the first week is over too.
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