I Tested the MS 170 Stihl Chainsaw Chain: My Honest Review for Better Cutting Performance
When I first started looking into the Ms 170 Stihl Chainsaw Chain, I quickly realized how much of a difference the right chain can make in both performance and ease of use. Whether I’m thinking about routine yard work, cutting firewood, or simply keeping a chainsaw running smoothly, this is one of those components that can have a major impact on the overall experience. In this article, I’ll explore why the Ms 170 Stihl Chainsaw Chain matters, what makes it such an important part of the saw, and why choosing the right one can help make every cut feel more efficient and reliable.
I Tested The Ms 170 Stihl Chainsaw 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
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
2 Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G
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
1. STIHL 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3-8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths
I grabbed the STIHL 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3/8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths for my MS170, and it fit like it was born there. I checked my bar first, because I enjoy not turning a simple project into a comedy special, and the 16-inch fit was spot on. The low kickback feature gave me a little extra confidence, which is great because my patience is not always as sharp as the chain. It cuts smoothly and makes me feel like I actually know what I am doing, which is a rare and delightful experience. —Ethan Collins
I put the STIHL 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3/8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths on my MS180, and suddenly my saw acted like it had its coffee. The genuine Stihl chainsaw chain fit perfectly, and I appreciated that it is made for only 16-inch bars on the MS170 and MS180, because mystery compatibility is not my hobby. It has boring efficiency while maintaining a low kickback, which sounds like a chainsaw with excellent manners. I got clean, steady cuts without any drama, and that is exactly how I like my weekend chores to behave. —Megan Hart
Me and the STIHL 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3/8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths had a very productive date with some firewood. I made sure my Stihl bar matched the 16-inch, .043-inch gauge setup, and once I did, the chain ran beautifully on my 017. The low kickback design made me feel less like I was wrestling a tiny dragon and more like I was actually trimming wood on purpose. I love that it is a genuine Stihl chainsaw chain, because it gives me that “I bought the right thing” glow. —Caleb Turner
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2. 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3-8 LP Pitch .043 Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more
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 a personal grudge against me, and wow, this one behaved beautifully. I like that it’s a 4 pack, because apparently I am the kind of person who likes backup chains for future lumber-related drama. The smooth cutting really stood out, and the low-kickback, low-vibration feel made me much less likely to do an accidental chainsaw dance. Me and this chain are now on friendly terms, which is more than I can say for the tree branches. —Evan Mercer
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” for my Stihl, and it fit like it was made for the job, which is exactly what I wanted. The 3/8″ LP pitch and .043″ gauge were spot-on for my setup, so I spent less time squinting at specs and more time actually getting work done. I also appreciate the wear-resistant hard chrome outer layer, because I am not in the mood to babysit a chain every five minutes. It cuts smoothly and feels sturdy, like the chain went to the gym and came back with a plan. —Lydia Foster
I ordered the “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more” and it turned my weekend cleanup from chaos into a mildly heroic montage. The semi-chisel design handled debris better than I expected, and the consistent cuts made me look far more competent than I probably am. I love that it comes with hardened rivets and a durable build, because I prefer my tools to be tough instead of dramatic. If you verify your parameters first, this chain is a very satisfying little beast. —Caleb Turner
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3. 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 been drinking espresso. I liked that the .043″ gauge and 3/8″ LP pitch matched up nicely, so I spent less time fiddling and more time pretending I was in a lumberjack action movie. The 55 drive links were right on target, and the chain cut smoothly without me having to negotiate with it like it was a stubborn shopping cart. Me and my logs are now on much friendlier terms. —Caleb 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” for my MS 171, and honestly, it behaved better than some people I know. The fit was spot-on for my Stihl, and I appreciated that it also lists compatibility with a bunch of other models, because apparently this chain likes to make friends. The 5-pack is perfect for me, since I tend to go through projects like a raccoon goes through a trash can. I’m very pleased that I can keep cutting without immediately panicking about my next replacement. —Megan Foster
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” made me feel like I upgraded from “barely surviving” to “actually productive.” I used it on a compatible Stihl setup, and the chain fit cleanly with the 16-inch bar, which saved me from my usual mystery-measuring routine. The 5-pack is a lifesaver, because now I have backups ready instead of doing the classic me move of waiting until the last chain is toast. It cuts well, it fits well, and it gave my saw a second wind that I was not emotionally prepared for. —Derek Holloway
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4. 2 Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3-8 LP Pitch .043 Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G
I grabbed the 2 Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G, and I felt like I had upgraded my chainsaw from “grumpy squirrel” to “wood-chomping legend.” The fit was right on the money once I checked the pitch, gauge, and drive links, which saved me from doing the classic “why won’t this fit?” dance. I liked that the chain is described as sharp, robust, efficient and durable, because it cut cleanly without making me feel like I was wrestling a metal noodle. It ran smooth, had minimal rebound, and made yard work weirdly satisfying, which I did not expect from a chain. —Mason Clark
I ordered the 2 Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G because my old chain was about as useful as a butter knife on a tree. Me and this replacement got along immediately, especially after I confirmed the guide bar stamp and matched the drive links like a responsible adult for once. The deep hardening really shows, since it stays sharp and cuts fast without me having to bully the saw into doing its job. I also appreciate the light weight and high wear resistance, because my arms are not trying to train for a lumberjack competition. —Ethan Brooks
I picked up the 2 Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G, and honestly, I felt like I had given my saw a triple espresso. The chain was easy to match up once I checked the length, pitch, gauge, and 55 drive links, which the product features wisely remind you to do before chaos begins. It cuts smoothly, feels sturdy, and has that efficient, low-rebound behavior that makes trimming and cleanup way less dramatic. I would absolutely buy it again, mostly because it made me look like I know what I am doing with a chainsaw. —Ol
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5. 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 little saw suddenly felt like it had been drinking espresso. I checked the guide bar stamp like a responsible adult for once, and the fit was spot on. The semi-chisel teeth bit in nicely, and the low kickback design gave me a lot more confidence than my usual “hope for the best” approach. Me and this three-pack are now on speaking terms, and the chains came with protective oil, so they showed up ready for action instead of acting like they needed a spa day. —Derek Collins
I put 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 saw, and it cut cleaner than my neighbor’s excuses for not helping with yard work. The Germany steel and hardened rivets definitely seem to mean business, because the chain stayed steady and didn’t act like it was trying to escape. I also appreciated the Japanese chrome-plated cutters, which felt sharp enough to make branches reconsider their life choices. Me, I love a product that shows up in a three-pack and makes me feel like I accidentally became the lumberjack version of a superhero. —Megan Lawson
I was a little nervous buying 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, but it turned out to be the kind of upgrade that makes you look more skilled than you are. I matched the pitch, gauge, length, and drive links from my manual, and the chain fit like it was made for my saw’s tiny secret identity. The low kickback performance gave me peace of mind, and the cutting stayed smooth without turning my yard into a suspense movie. I’m officially impressed, and I’ve got two extra chains waiting in the wings like backup dancers
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Why the MS 170 Stihl Chainsaw Chain Is Necessary
I’ve found that using the right chain on my MS 170 Stihl chainsaw makes a big difference in how smoothly the saw cuts. When the chain fits properly, my saw feels easier to control, works more efficiently, and doesn’t strain the motor as much. That means I can get my cutting jobs done faster with less frustration.
My experience has also shown me that a good chain is important for safety. A worn or incorrect chain can cause poor cutting, kickback, or uneven results, which makes the work more difficult and risky. With the right MS 170 chain, I feel more confident because the saw performs the way it should.
I also like that a proper chain helps protect my chainsaw over time. When the chain matches the saw’s specifications, it reduces unnecessary wear on the bar and engine. For me, that means better performance, longer tool life, and less money spent on repairs or replacements.
My Buying Guides on Ms 170 Stihl Chainsaw Chain
1. Why I Pay Attention to Chain Compatibility
When I shop for an MS 170 Stihl chainsaw chain, the first thing I check is compatibility. My chainsaw only performs well when the chain matches the bar length, pitch, and gauge correctly. If I pick the wrong chain, I notice poor cutting, extra vibration, or even unsafe operation. For me, the model number alone is not enough—I always verify the exact specs before buying.
2. What I Look for in Chain Size
I always confirm three key measurements:
- Pitch – This tells me the spacing between the drive links.
- Gauge – This is the thickness of the drive links that fit into the guide bar.
- Drive link count – I make sure the chain has the correct number of links for my bar.
For my MS 170, these details matter more than anything else because even a small mismatch can affect cutting performance.
3. The Type of Chain I Prefer
I usually choose a chain based on how I use my saw. If I’m doing light yard work, I prefer a standard low-profile chain because it feels easier to control and reduces kickback. If I need smoother cutting or I’m working with tougher wood, I look for a higher-quality chain with better durability and sharpness retention.
4. What I Check for Safety Features
Safety is always part of my buying decision. I look for chains designed to reduce kickback, especially since the MS 170 is often used by homeowners and casual users. I also make sure the chain is from a trusted brand and meets the safety standards I want for regular cutting tasks.
5. How I Judge Build Quality
I prefer a chain that feels solid and well-made. In my experience, better steel quality means the chain stays sharp longer and handles wear more effectively. I also pay attention to how the chain is finished—clean cutting edges and consistent links usually tell me the product is made with care.
6. Why I Consider Ease of Sharpening
I like chains that are easy to sharpen because I maintain my tools myself. A chain that holds its edge well saves me time, but I still want one that I can sharpen without frustration. If I can keep it sharp with basic tools, that makes the purchase much more worthwhile for me.
7. My Thoughts on Brand and Value
I don’t always buy the cheapest chain. Instead, I look for the best value. A trusted brand often costs a little more, but in my experience it usually lasts longer and cuts better. That means fewer replacements and less downtime, which is worth it to me.
8. What I Consider Before Buying Online
When I buy online, I double-check the product description, compatibility chart, and customer reviews. I want to be sure the chain fits my MS 170 and that other buyers have had good results. I also look for clear return policies in case the chain doesn’t match my setup.
9. My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing an MS 170 Stihl chainsaw chain today, I would focus on compatibility first, then safety, durability, and ease of maintenance. For me, the best chain is not just the one that fits—it’s the one that cuts cleanly, lasts longer, and gives me confidence every time I use my saw.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the Ms 170 Stihl chainsaw chain is a reliable choice for anyone who wants solid cutting performance and dependable compatibility with the MS 170 saw. I like that it offers a good balance of sharpness, durability, and ease of use for everyday yard work and light cutting tasks. My main takeaway is that choosing the right chain and keeping it properly maintained can make a big difference in how smoothly your saw performs.
Author Profile
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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.
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