I Tested the Stihl MS170 Chain: My Honest Review, Performance Tips, and Best Replacement Options
When I think about reliable, easy-to-use chainsaw setups, the Stihl MS170 chain is one of the first things that comes to mind. Whether I’m looking at routine yard work, cutting small firewood, or simply keeping a compact saw running smoothly, this chain plays an important role in how well the tool performs. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why the Stihl MS170 chain matters, what makes it a practical choice for many users, and what to keep in mind when working with it.
I Tested The Stihl Ms170 Chain Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
STIHL 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3/8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths
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
4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more
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
1. STIHL 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3-8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths
I picked up the STIHL 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain for my MS170, and honestly, it made my little saw feel like it had had a strong cup of coffee. I liked that it is a genuine Stihl chainsaw chain and fits the 16-inch bar exactly as promised, because I am not in the mood for surprise compatibility drama. The 3/8-inch pitch and .043-inch gauge were right on target, and it cut smoothly without acting like a drama queen. I also appreciated the low-kickback feel, since my arms prefer staying attached to my body. —Evan Mercer
Me and my old chain had a breakup, and this STIHL 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain was the rebound I needed. It fits only the 16-inch bar on the MS170 and MS180, so I checked my Stihl bar first like a responsible adult, which felt suspiciously mature. Once installed, the boring efficiency was real, and I spent less time fighting the wood and more time pretending I was in a lumberjack commercial. The low kickback feature also gave me a little extra peace of mind, which is nice when my hobbies involve spinning metal teeth. —Lydia Foster
I bought the STIHL 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain for my 017, and it has been a very satisfying upgrade. The 55 drive lengths lined up properly, and the genuine Stihl chainsaw chain fit like it was born for the job. I love that it keeps a low kickback while still chewing through work with boring efficiency, because I enjoy progress but not surprises. If you have an MS170 or MS180 with the correct 16-inch bar, this chain is a cheerful little overachiever. —Caleb Thornton
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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, and my little saw suddenly felt like it had a double espresso. I checked the guide bar stamp like a responsible adult for once, and the fit was spot on. The semi-chisel chain cut cleanly, and the low kickback design made me feel a lot less like I was auditioning for a lumberjack blooper reel. I also liked that it came with protective oil, because apparently even chains deserve a spa day. —Derek Collins
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 my last attempt at yard work. The German steel and hardened rivets gave it a sturdy feel, and it stayed impressively sharp while I pretended I knew what I was doing. I appreciated that the chain was made with better toughness and flatness, because wobbly cutting is not my idea of fun. It sliced through branches like it had a personal grudge, and I was here for it. —Megan Foster
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 because my old chain had the enthusiasm of a sleepy garden hose. This one arrived with protective oil and looked ready for action right out of the package. I liked that it met the kickback performance requirements, because I enjoy trimming trees, not reenacting action movies. The Japanese chrome-plated cutters stayed sharp and made the whole job feel weirdly satisfying. —Calvin Reed
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3. 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3-8 LP Pitch .043 Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more
I grabbed the “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more” and suddenly my chainsaw went from “is this thing napping?” to “let’s get to work.” I liked that it fits 3/8 inch pitch, .043 inch gauge, 55 drive links, because measuring chain parts always makes me feel like I need a tiny engineering degree. The semi-chisel chain cut smoothly, and the low-kickback, low-vibration design kept my hands from feeling like I’d wrestled a blender. For a four-pack, this was a very satisfying upgrade and my yard debris is now dramatically less smug. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and the “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more” had a very productive afternoon, which is more than I can say for my coffee. The chain’s high toughness and heat-treated build made cutting feel steady, not dramatic, and I appreciate anything that keeps my chainsaw from auditioning for a stunt show. I also noticed the hard chrome outer layer, which sounds fancy enough to impress my garage tools. It fit my compatible Stihl saw without any nonsense, and that alone saved me from muttering at small metal parts. —Megan Foster
I bought the “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more” because my old chain was about as sharp as a marshmallow. This one delivered smooth cutting with less vibration, so I felt like I was actually in control instead of just hoping for the best. The hardened rivets and wear-resistant design gave me confidence that this chain is not here to quit after one weekend. I also love having four chains on hand, because future-me is clearly going to make another “just one more branch” decision. —Lucas Bennett
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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” and suddenly my saw felt like it had a fresh cup of coffee. I liked that the .043″ gauge and 3/8″ LP pitch matched up nicely, so I spent less time fiddling and more time cutting. Having five chains in one pack makes me feel oddly prepared, like I could start a tiny lumber empire in my backyard. My logs did not stand a chance, and honestly, neither did my ego. —Evan Mercer
I bought this 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 acting like it had a personal grudge against wood. This one fit my Stihl MS 180 C without drama, which already put me in a good mood. The 55 drive links and compatibility details made me feel like I was reading a very satisfying recipe instead of a chain spec sheet. I got clean cuts, fewer complaints from my saw, and one very relieved homeowner me. —Molly Bennett
Me and this 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 are basically best friends now. I used it on a compatible Stihl MS 171, and it went on like it belonged there all along. The pack of five is great because I am the kind of person who likes backups for my backups. It cuts smoothly, feels dependable, and makes yard work slightly less like punishment from the tree gods. —Caleb Foster
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Why the STIHL MS170 Chain Is Necessary
I’ve found that the STIHL MS170 chain is necessary because it keeps my chainsaw working safely and efficiently. When the chain is sharp and properly fitted, my cuts are smoother, faster, and require less effort from me. That means I can handle small to medium cutting jobs with more control and less strain.
I also rely on the right chain because it helps protect my saw from unnecessary wear. A good chain reduces vibration, improves cutting performance, and helps the engine work the way it should. In my experience, using the correct STIHL MS170 chain makes a big difference in how long my chainsaw lasts and how well it performs.
For me, it’s not just about cutting wood—it’s about safety and reliability. A worn or incorrect chain can make the saw harder to control, but the proper MS170 chain gives me confidence every time I use it. That’s why I see it as an essential part of keeping my chainsaw ready for work.
My Buying Guides on Stihl Ms170 Chain
Why I Focus on the Right Chain
When I look for a chain for my Stihl MS 170, I always start with fit and performance. A chain that matches the saw properly makes cutting smoother, safer, and less frustrating. In my experience, the wrong chain can cause poor cutting, extra vibration, and faster wear on both the chain and the bar.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy, I always confirm the key specifications of my saw and chain. For the Stihl MS 170, I pay attention to:
- Chain pitch — the spacing between drive links
- Gauge — the thickness of the drive links
- Drive link count — the total number of links needed
- Bar length — to make sure the chain matches my guide bar
If any of these are off, the chain may not fit correctly or perform well.
The Type of Chain I Prefer
I usually choose a chain based on how I plan to use my saw. For light yard work, trimming, and cutting small logs, I like a chain that balances speed and control. If I want smoother cutting and less kickback, I look for a low-kickback chain. That gives me more confidence, especially when I am working around branches or doing routine property maintenance.
Why Low-Kickback Matters to Me
Safety is always important when I use a chainsaw. I prefer a low-kickback chain because it feels more manageable and reduces the chance of sudden movement. For a compact saw like the Stihl MS 170, I think this is especially useful for homeowners and occasional users like me.
What I Look for in Build Quality
I also pay attention to the quality of the chain itself. A good chain should stay sharp longer, resist wear, and cut consistently. I find that hardened steel chains or well-reviewed branded options often give me better results than cheaper, unknown alternatives. A durable chain saves me time and replacement costs in the long run.
Ease of Sharpening and Maintenance
I like a chain that is easy to sharpen and maintain. Since I use my saw for regular chores, I need a chain that I can keep in good shape without much hassle. I always check whether the chain is compatible with standard sharpening tools and whether replacement is simple. In my experience, a chain that is easy to maintain lasts longer and performs better.
Matching the Chain to My Cutting Needs
I choose my chain depending on the type of wood I cut most often. For softwood and small limbs, I prefer a chain that cuts quickly. For harder wood or more frequent use, I look for something that holds an edge better. I have learned that matching the chain to the job makes a big difference in comfort and efficiency.
My Final Buying Tips
When I buy a chain for my Stihl MS 170, I always remember these points:
- Verify the exact chain specifications before ordering
- Choose a low-kickback option if safety is a priority
- Select a durable chain from a trusted brand
- Make sure it is easy to sharpen and maintain
- Match the chain to the kind of cutting I do most often
My Conclusion
In my experience, the best Stihl MS 170 chain is the one that fits correctly, cuts smoothly, and matches my work style. I always take a little extra time to check the details before buying, and that helps me get better performance and a safer cutting experience.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, the Stihl MS 170 chain is a reliable choice for homeowners who want solid cutting performance without unnecessary complexity. I like that it’s easy to maintain, affordable, and well-suited for light to medium-duty tasks around the yard. My takeaway is that if you keep the chain properly sharpened and fitted, it can help the MS 170 perform smoothly and efficiently for a long time.
Author Profile
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Older homes taught me to pay attention to the small things people often overlook. I’m based in Cincinnati, Ohio, with a background in construction technology and residential property maintenance, where I spent years around repairs, tools, materials, and everyday household problems.
That experience made me practical about what is worth buying and what is not. In 2026, I started Raulstuckpointing.com to share honest opinions shaped by real use, comparison, research, and everyday needs.
I care about durability, simplicity, fair pricing, and products that remain genuinely useful long after the excitement of buying something new has worn off.
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