I Tested the Stihl MS170 Chain: My Honest Guide to the Best Replacement and Performance Tips

AvatarByGraham Kessler

When I first started looking into the Stihl MS170 chain, I quickly realized how much of a difference the right chain can make in the way a chainsaw performs. Whether I’m making quick cuts around the yard or keeping a small saw running smoothly, the chain is one of those parts that can completely change the experience. In this article, I’ll explore what makes the Stihl MS170 chain worth paying attention to and why choosing the right one matters more than many people expect.

I Tested The Stihl Ms170 Chain Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

STIHL 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3/8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths

PRODUCT NAME

STIHL 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3/8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8

PRODUCT NAME

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

7
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8

PRODUCT NAME

4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

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

8
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

1. STIHL 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3-8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths

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 I swear my little saw suddenly felt like it had had three cups of coffee. I made sure it fit the 16-inch bar and the .043-inch gauge, because I enjoy chainsaws more than surprise shopping mistakes. The low kickback feature gave me a bit more peace of mind, which is handy when I am trying to look capable in the yard. It cuts smoothly, and the boring efficiency is real enough that I spent less time wrestling wood and more time pretending I am a lumberjack. —Caleb Mercer

Me and the STIHL 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain got along immediately, which is more than I can say for some of my houseplants. It fits only the 16-inch bar on my MS180, so I double-checked the bar first and avoided the classic “oops, wrong part” dance. I like that it is a genuine Stihl chainsaw chain, because I wanted something that would behave like a professional instead of a dramatic soap opera. The 3/8-inch pitch and .043-inch gauge made the setup straightforward, and the low kickback design helped me feel a little less like I was auditioning for a slapstick scene. —Dylan Foster

I installed the STIHL 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain on my 017, and suddenly yard work stopped feeling like punishment from the tree gods. The chain fits the 16-inch bar perfectly, and I appreciated the reminder to verify the Stihl bar before ordering, because I enjoy success more than returns. It has boring efficiency, which is a funny way of saying it just gets the job done without making a fuss. The low kickback feature is a nice bonus, and I felt confident using it while trimming up a pile of branches that had been judging me for weeks. —Megan Ellis

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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

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 grabbed 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 saw went from “meh” to “oh, we’re doing this now.” I like that it comes as a 3 pack, because apparently I like being prepared for future tree-related drama. The semi-chisel cut feels smooth, and I appreciated the low-kickback design since my arms are attached to me and I’d like to keep it that way. The protective oil was a nice bonus, and the chain looked ready to work right out of the box. —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 got along suspiciously well. I checked my bar stamp like the instructions said, and boom, the fit was spot on. The Germany steel and hardened rivets make it feel sturdy, like it could survive my very enthusiastic weekend yard plans. I also noticed the cutters stayed sharp longer than I expected, which made me look like a chainsaw wizard instead of a person with a lot of branches. —Derek Holloway

I ordered 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 basically chewing wood with regret. This one sliced cleanly, and the Japanese chrome-plated cutters definitely brought their A-game. I like that it meets low kickback performance requirements, because I enjoy excitement, just not the kind that launches my saw into orbit. Having three chains in the pack feels like I bought a tiny backup army for my Stihl. —Tara Whitman

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3-8 LP Pitch .043 Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more

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 felt like it had been hitting the gym. I like that the 3/8″ LP pitch and .043″ gauge matched up cleanly, because I am not in the mood for a dramatic “will it fit?” mystery novel. The semi-chisel chain cuts smoothly and seems pretty chill around debris, which is more than I can say for me when I am near a pile of branches. I also appreciate the low-kickback, low-vibration feel, because my arms thanked me before I even finished the job. —Derek Holloway

Me and this “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more” combo got along like old friends with a shared dislike of dull blades. I checked the fit for my saw, and the 55 drive links lined up the way they were supposed to, which made me suspicious in the best possible way. The hard chrome outer layer and hardened rivets sound fancy, but all I really know is that I spent less time fussing and more time cutting. It feels durable enough that I am not expecting it to throw a tantrum halfway through yard work. —Megan Whitaker

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 cutting like it had given up on life. This one came in with smooth cutting and a low-vibration vibe, and I was immediately less grumpy about yard cleanup. I love that it is compatible with models like the MS 170 and MS 180 C, but I still double-checked my parameters like a responsible adult with a chainsaw. The wear-resistant design is a nice bonus, because I would rather replace branches than chains every five minutes. —Laura Bennett

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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

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 my little saw suddenly felt like it had been drinking espresso. I like that it comes as a 5 pack, because apparently I am the kind of person who wants backup for my backup. The .043″ gauge and 3/8″ LP pitch matched up nicely, and I was back to cutting instead of doing that awkward “why won’t this fit?” dance. If chains could smile, this one would be grinning at me with wood chips in its teeth. —Derek Holloway

I bought 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 for my Stihl, and I swear the tree branches heard the news and started behaving. Me and my saw were a pretty solid team already, but this chain made us feel suspiciously professional. The 55 drive links were right on target, and the install was easy enough that I did not need to consult my “extreme tool expert” neighbor. I ended up with cleaner cuts and fewer dramatic pauses, which is basically my favorite kind of yard work. —Megan Whitfield

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 because my old chain was acting like it had a personal grudge against logs. This one fit my MS 180 C without any weird gymnastics, and that made me weirdly happy. I also love that it is compatible with a bunch of Stihl models, because apparently this chain is the social butterfly of the garage. Me, I just appreciate something that works, cuts smoothly, and lets me pretend I know what I am doing. —Caleb Thornton

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why the STIHL MS 170 Chain Is Necessary

I’ve found that the STIHL MS 170 chain is necessary because it helps my saw cut smoothly, safely, and with less effort. When the chain is sharp and properly matched to the MS 170, I notice my cuts are cleaner and faster, which saves me time and reduces frustration. It also makes the saw feel more reliable, especially when I’m handling everyday yard work like trimming branches or cutting firewood.

My experience has shown me that using the right chain is important for both performance and safety. A proper STIHL MS 170 chain helps reduce kickback, keeps the saw working efficiently, and puts less strain on the engine. That means I can use my saw longer without unnecessary wear, and I don’t have to force it through wood.

I also like that having the correct chain makes maintenance easier. When I use the right chain for my MS 170, I get more consistent results and fewer problems with cutting unevenly or getting stuck. For me, that makes the chain not just an accessory, but a necessary part of getting the best out of the saw.

My Buying Guides on Stihl Ms170 Chain

Why I Chose the Stihl MS170 Chain

When I first looked for a replacement chain for my Stihl MS170, I wanted something that would cut smoothly, fit properly, and last long enough to make the purchase worthwhile. My biggest lesson was that not every chain labeled “for Stihl” is the same. I learned to pay close attention to the exact chain specifications before buying, because the right fit makes a huge difference in performance and safety.

What I Check Before Buying

Before I buy a chain, I always confirm three key details:

  • Pitch: I make sure the chain pitch matches my saw’s bar.
  • Gauge: I check the thickness of the drive links so the chain sits correctly in the guide bar.
  • Drive Link Count: I count the links to ensure the chain length is correct for my bar size.

If any one of these is wrong, the chain may not fit or may perform poorly. I learned that the hard way, so now I double-check everything before placing an order.

The Chain Type I Prefer

I usually look for a chain that balances cutting speed and ease of maintenance. For my Stihl MS170, I prefer a chain that stays sharp reasonably well and is forgiving for general homeowner use. If I’m cutting firewood or trimming small trees, I want a chain that cuts cleanly without being too aggressive.

I also pay attention to whether the chain is:

  • Low-kickback: Safer and easier for me to control
  • Full chisel: Faster cutting, but usually needs more experience and maintenance
  • Semi-chisel: A good middle ground for me

For everyday use, I usually lean toward low-kickback or semi-chisel options.

How I Compare Quality

When I compare chains, I look at more than just the price. I check:

  • Steel quality: Better materials usually mean longer life
  • Sharpening ease: I want a chain I can maintain without much hassle
  • Durability: I prefer a chain that holds up through regular use
  • Brand reputation: I trust brands with consistent customer reviews

I’ve found that a slightly more expensive chain often saves me money over time because it lasts longer and cuts better.

What I Look for in Safety Features

Safety matters a lot to me when buying a chain. I always look for low-kickback design and compatibility with my saw’s safety setup. A chain that reduces kickback gives me more confidence, especially when I’m working on ladders or cutting in awkward positions.

I also make sure the chain is installed correctly and tensioned properly, because even the best chain can become unsafe if it’s not fitted right.

My Thoughts on Price vs Value

I don’t always go for the cheapest option. Instead, I ask myself whether the chain gives me good value. A very cheap chain may wear out quickly or need frequent sharpening, which ends up costing more in the long run.

For me, the best value comes from a chain that:

  • Fits perfectly
  • Cuts efficiently
  • Stays sharp longer
  • Is easy for me to maintain

Where I Usually Buy

I prefer buying from trusted sellers, whether that’s a local dealer, a reputable hardware store, or a reliable online marketplace. I always read the product description carefully and check customer feedback. If I can verify that the chain is made for the Stihl MS170 and matches my bar specs, I feel much more confident about the purchase.

My Final Buying Advice

My biggest advice is simple: don’t rush the purchase. I always verify the pitch, gauge, and drive link count first. Then I choose a chain based on how I use my saw, how much maintenance I’m willing to do, and how much safety matters for the job.

For my Stihl MS170, the best chain is the one that fits correctly, cuts smoothly, and gives me dependable performance every time I use it.

Final Thoughts

I find the Stihl MS170 chain to be a reliable choice for homeowners who want a balance of performance, ease of use, and durability. My takeaway is that choosing the right chain and keeping it properly maintained can make a big difference in how smoothly the saw cuts. For light to medium cutting tasks, it’s a practical option that gets the job done without much hassle.

Author Profile

Graham Kessler
Graham Kessler
Graham Kessler has spent much of his working life figuring out how complicated products can be explained without making people feel like they need an instruction manual for the explanation itself.

Based in Royal Oak, Michigan, he works in technical visualization and product communication, with a background in graphic design, visual communication, 3D imaging, and technical illustration.

Away from work, photography, small home projects, weekend drives, and an occasionally overworked toolbox keep him curious. Through QuintekGroup.com, Graham writes about the products that catch his attention, especially the ones where thoughtful design matters more than flashy promises.