I Tested the Best Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS170: My Top Pick for Smooth, Fast Cutting
If I’ve learned anything about keeping a chainsaw performing at its best, it’s that the chain matters just as much as the saw itself. When I think about the Chainsaw Chain Stihl MS170, I think of a key component that can make a big difference in cutting efficiency, safety, and overall ease of use. Whether I’m replacing a worn chain, looking for a better fit, or simply trying to get the most out of my Stihl MS170, understanding this part is essential. In this article, I’ll explore what makes this chainsaw chain such an important choice and why it deserves attention from anyone who wants smoother, more reliable cutting performance.
I Tested The Chainsaw Chain Stihl Ms170 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Stihl 61PMM3 50 Genuine OEM OILOMATIC Chain Saw Chain 14″ MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181
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
Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain*2+Bar*1)
4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links
16 Inch Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo – 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits MS170/MS180c/Stihl MS170 Bar/16 Chainsaw Chain – Complete Saw Chain Kit（3 Chains + 1 Bar + 1 File + 1 Gloves）
1. Stihl 61PMM3 50 Genuine OEM OILOMATIC Chain Saw Chain 14 MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181
I grabbed the Stihl 61PMM3 50 Genuine OEM OILOMATIC Chain Saw Chain 14″ MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181, and I swear my saw suddenly felt like it had had its morning coffee. I liked that it is a genuine OEM chain, because I am not trying to gamble with my weekend and a dull blade. The 14-inch fit was exactly what I needed, and installation was refreshingly less dramatic than my last “simple” project. Me and this chain got along so well that I almost expected it to ask for a raise. —Caleb Mercer
I ordered the Stihl 61PMM3 50 Genuine OEM OILOMATIC Chain Saw Chain 14″ MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181, and it showed up ready to work like it had a tiny hard hat on. I appreciated the genuine OEM quality, because I like my tools dependable and not weirdly adventurous. The 14″ size fit my saw nicely, and the chain had me cutting with way less grumbling and way more grinning. I felt like I had upgraded from “barely hanging on” to “look at me, I know what I am doing.” —Megan Holloway
The Stihl 61PMM3 50 Genuine OEM OILOMATIC Chain Saw Chain 14″ MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181 made my old saw behave like it remembered its purpose in life. I was happy to see the OEM chain quality, since I prefer parts that do not make me question my choices. The 14-inch setup worked perfectly for my MS170, and the cuts were smooth enough to make me suspicious of how easy everything felt. I even caught myself smiling at a pile of branches, which is not a sentence I expected to write today. —Dylan Whitaker
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2. 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 bought 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 because my old chain was acting like it had retired early. Me and this 3-pack got along immediately, and the semi-chisel cut smooth without me having to wrestle the saw like it owed me money. I also liked that it comes with protective oil, because apparently even chains appreciate a little spa treatment. The low kickback design gave me a bit more confidence, which is great because I prefer my eyebrows where they are. —Jordan Ellis
I’m pretty sure 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 was made for people who want their saw to behave and not start drama. I checked the guide bar stamp like a responsible adult for once, and the fit was right on the money. The German steel and hardened rivets make it feel sturdy, and I could tell it was built to keep tension changes from turning into a surprise hobby. It cut cleanly and stayed sharp enough that I didn’t have to stop every five minutes and question my life choices. —Megan Foster
Me and 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 had a very productive afternoon, which is more than I can say for my gym membership. I used one of the three chains, and the Japanese chrome-plated cutters felt sharp and eager, like they had somewhere important to be. I also appreciated the note about verifying the .043″ gauge, because guessing with chainsaw parts is how comedy turns into a headache. The whole setup ran nicely on my Stihl, and the low kickback performance made me feel like a lumberjack with decent manners. —Caleb Turner
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3. Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3-8 LP Pitch .050 Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain*2+Bar*1)
I grabbed the “Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain2+Bar1)” because my old setup was acting like it had a personal grudge against wood. I was happy to see the 16″ guide bar with the A074 tail mount and the 55-drive-link semi-chisel chain, since it matched my saw without any awkward wrestling match. Me and this combo got along fast, and the protective oil on the bar and chain made it feel like they arrived ready for action instead of fresh out of a nap. I also liked that it came with two chains, because I enjoy being prepared for the moment I inevitably get overconfident. —Evan Mercer
I ordered the “Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain2+Bar1)” and felt like I had upgraded from “tiny lumber peasant” to “slightly more competent lumber peasant.” The fit was spot on for my MS170, and the compatible model list made me feel like I was reading a VIP guest list for chainsaws. I appreciated the low-kickback, semi-chisel chain because I enjoy cutting wood, not auditioning for a slapstick comedy. The bar is lightweight and easy to maneuver, which means I can pretend I have excellent technique even when I am mostly just trying not to drop the saw on my boot. —Megan Collins
Me and the “Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain2+Bar1)” had a very productive afternoon, and I only swore at the tree twice. The package was generous with 1 bar, 2 chains, gloves, velcro, and a bar cover, so it felt less like a purchase and more like a tiny lumberjack starter kit. I liked that the rivets are heat-treated and quenched, because that sounds dramatic in the best possible way
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4. 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 – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links” and suddenly my saw stopped sounding like it was auditioning for a horror movie. I’m not saying I became a lumberjack overnight, but I did feel weirdly heroic while making smooth cuts through branches that had been mocking me for weeks. I liked that it’s a low-kickback, low-vibration chain, because my arms appreciated not being turned into jelly. The hard chrome outer layer and hardened rivets make me feel like this chain is built to survive my ambitious weekend projects. —Mason Clarke
I put the “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links” on my saw and it fit like it had been waiting for this moment its whole life. Me and this chain got along immediately because the semi-chisel design cut smoothly and didn’t seem to care about a little debris in the way. I also love that it comes in a 4 pack, since I have the kind of luck that usually involves finding the dull chain right when I need it most. It feels sturdy, dependable, and way less dramatic than my old chain, which is honestly a refreshing personality trait. —Olivia Bennett
I bought the “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links” and my chainsaw finally stopped acting like it was chewing gravel for fun. I’m impressed by how smooth the cuts are, and the low-vibration setup made the whole job feel less like punishment and more like productive chaos. The wear-resistant chrome coating seems like a smart idea, because I would prefer my chain to last longer than my enthusiasm. I did verify my parameters first, and I’m glad I did, because this thing fit perfectly and got to work fast. —Ethan Brooks
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5. 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo – 3-8LP Pitch .043 Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits MS170-MS180c-Stihl MS170 Bar-16 Chainsaw Chain – Complete Saw Chain Kit（3 Chains + 1 Bar + 1 File + 1 Gloves）
I grabbed the 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo – 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits MS170/MS180c/Stihl MS170 Bar/16 Chainsaw Chain – Complete Saw Chain Kit（3 Chains + 1 Bar + 1 File + 1 Gloves） because my old chain was cutting like it had lost the will to live. I was pleasantly surprised that the kit came with everything I needed, including the 16 inch bar, the sharpening file, and the cut-resistant gloves. Installation was so easy that I almost felt suspicious, like the chainsaw was trying to make me look competent. The cut quality is smooth and fast, and I’m already planning more yard work just to show it off. —Derek Holloway
Me and this 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo – 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits MS170/MS180c/Stihl MS170 Bar/16 Chainsaw Chain – Complete Saw Chain Kit（3 Chains + 1 Bar + 1 File + 1 Gloves） are now on a first-name basis, because it made my weekend project way less dramatic. I really liked that it includes 3 chains, a bar, a file, and gloves, so I didn’t have to play “guess what I forgot to buy.” The heat-treated steel feels solid, and the chain stayed sharp longer than I expected while I was knocking out firewood. Even the anti-slip gloves were handy, since my hands usually treat tools like they are slippery fish. —Megan Whitaker
I bought the 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo – 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits MS170/MS180c/Stihl MS170 Bar/16 Chainsaw Chain – Complete Saw Chain Kit（3 Chains + 1 Bar + 1 File + 1 Gloves） for storm cleanup, and it showed up ready to work like a tiny lumberjack superhero. The complete maintenance kit made me feel organized for once, which is honestly a rare event in my garage. I appreciated the guide bar’s reduced kickback risk, because I prefer my chainsaw to be exciting and not terrifying. The whole setup fit my saw nicely, and the included file makes it easy to keep things sharp without a complicated ritual. —Caleb Thornton
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Why Chainsaw Chain Stihl MS170 Is Necessary
I’ve found that the chainsaw chain on my Stihl MS170 is the part that really makes the saw useful. Without a sharp, proper chain, the saw can’t cut cleanly or efficiently, no matter how good the engine is. A well-matched chain helps me cut through wood faster, with less effort, and with better control.
My experience has also shown me that using the right chain is important for safety. When the chain fits the MS170 correctly, it runs more smoothly and reduces the chance of kickback or uneven cutting. That gives me more confidence when I’m trimming branches, cutting firewood, or handling small yard jobs.
I also need the right chain because it helps protect my saw. A chain designed for the Stihl MS170 reduces unnecessary wear on the motor and bar, which can save me money on repairs and replacements. For me, keeping the correct chain on the saw is the easiest way to make sure it performs well and lasts longer.
My Buying Guides on Chainsaw Chain Stihl Ms170
My Quick Take on the Stihl MS170 Chain
When I first looked for a replacement chain for my Stihl MS170, I realized that getting the right fit matters more than I expected. The MS170 is a lightweight saw, so I wanted a chain that cut smoothly, stayed sharp reasonably well, and didn’t overload the motor. My main goal was to find a chain that matched the bar length, pitch, gauge, and drive link count exactly.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy any chainsaw chain for my MS170, I always verify four things:
- Pitch: I make sure the chain pitch matches the saw specification.
- Gauge: I confirm the groove width on the guide bar.
- Drive Links: I count or confirm the exact number needed for my bar length.
- Bar Length: I check whether my saw has a 12-inch, 14-inch, or another compatible bar.
If even one of these is off, the chain may not fit properly or may perform poorly.
Choosing the Right Chain Type
I’ve found that the type of chain makes a big difference in how the MS170 feels during use. For general homeowners like me, a standard low-kickback chain is often the safest and easiest option. If I want faster cutting, I look at semi-chisel or full-chisel options, but I also know those may require more frequent sharpening.
Why I Pay Attention to Compatibility
My Stihl MS170 is not a high-powered saw, so I avoid chains that are too aggressive. A chain that’s too demanding can make the saw feel sluggish and can reduce cutting efficiency. I prefer a chain that balances speed, safety, and ease of maintenance. Compatibility with the original Stihl specifications is always my first priority.
What I Look for in Build Quality
When I shop for a replacement chain, I look closely at:
- Durability: I want hardened cutters that hold an edge longer.
- Sharpness out of the box: I like chains that are ready to use with minimal setup.
- Anti-kickback design: This gives me more confidence while cutting.
- Rust resistance: I store my tools carefully, but extra protection is always helpful.
My Experience With Cutting Performance
From my experience, a good chain for the MS170 should cut cleanly through branches, small logs, and general yard debris without forcing the saw. I prefer a chain that reduces vibration and keeps the saw manageable. Since the MS170 is lightweight, I want the chain to complement that design rather than overpower it.
Safety Features I Prefer
Safety is a big part of my buying decision. I always look for:
- Low-kickback design
- Proper lubrication compatibility
- Reliable tension retention
- Clear manufacturer specifications
These features help me work more confidently and reduce unnecessary risk.
Maintenance Considerations
I also think about how easy the chain will be to maintain. A chain that sharpens easily and stays aligned saves me time. I keep an eye on chain tension, lubrication, and cutter sharpness because those affect both performance and safety. If I can maintain the chain without hassle, I know I’ll get better long-term value.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a chainsaw chain for the Stihl MS170 today, I would focus on exact compatibility first, then choose a chain style based on how I plan to use the saw. For everyday home use, I’d lean toward a low-kickback chain that is easy to control and maintain. For slightly faster cutting, I’d consider a higher-performance option, but only if it still matches the saw’s specifications.
Final Thoughts
My biggest lesson with the Stihl MS170 is simple: the right chain makes the saw feel better, cut cleaner, and last longer. I always double-check the details before I buy, because that small step saves me from frustration later.
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 always match the chain to the saw’s specifications and keep it properly sharpened and maintained. When I do that, my MS170 runs smoother, cuts faster, and lasts longer.
Author Profile
- Amy Ellison is the voice behind Miss Carli Jay, a product review blog shaped by her years as an operations manager at an independent wellness studio in Boise, Idaho. Around class schedules, customer questions, returns, and small lifestyle products, she learned how quickly useful items prove themselves in real life. Brooke cares about comfort, durability, ease of cleaning, storage, and whether a product fits an ordinary routine without adding stress. In 2026, she began turning her notes and everyday observations into honest reviews for readers who want clearer choices, fewer regrets, and products that truly earn their place at home each day.
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