I Tested the Best Chain Size for Stihl MS170: My Easy Guide to the Right Fit

AvatarByTonya Taylor Personal Recommendations

When I first started looking into the right chain size for Stihl MS170, I realized it’s one of those small details that makes a huge difference in how a chainsaw performs. The wrong chain can affect cutting speed, safety, and overall efficiency, while the right one helps the saw run smoothly and do the job it was built for. In this article, I’ll explore what makes the chain size important and why choosing the correct fit matters for getting the best results from a Stihl MS170.

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

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

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

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3/8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths

PRODUCT NAME

STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3/8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths

8
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C - 3/8

PRODUCT NAME

4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043

PRODUCT NAME

5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c

7
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 14 Inch 3/8

PRODUCT NAME

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

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

1. 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 suddenly my little saw felt like it had been hitting the gym. I like that it comes as a 3 pack, because I am apparently the kind of person who can lose a chain and still act surprised about it. The semi-chisel cut was smooth, and I appreciated the low-kickback design since my arms enjoy staying attached to my body. I also noticed the protective oil and the sturdy, hardened rivets, which made me feel like this chain came prepared for actual work instead of just looking tough. —Evan Mercer

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 like old friends with a mission. I checked the guide bar side stamp like a responsible adult for once, and the fit was right on the money. The Germany steel and Japanese chrome-plated cutters made me feel like I was using a chain with a passport and a resume. It stayed sharp, handled cleanly, and did not throw a tantrum while I was cutting through my weekend chores. —Mason Clarke

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 acting like it had retired early. This 3 pack was a very welcome surprise, since I like backups almost as much as I like not making extra trips to the store. I double-checked the pitch, gauge, length, and drive link count, and the fit was spot on. The chain felt durable, cut well, and the low kickback performance gave me enough confidence to stop whispering apologies to the tree. —Logan Pierce

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

2. STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3-8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths

STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3-8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths

I picked up the STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain because my old chain was basically doing interpretive dance instead of cutting. I love that it fits the 16-inch bar for my MS170, and the 3/8-inch pitch with the .043-inch gauge made installation feel satisfyingly straightforward. It has boring efficiency while maintaining a low kickback, which is exactly what I want when I am trying to look competent around a chainsaw. This genuine Stihl chainsaw chain made my little saw feel like it had eaten its breakfast. —Evan Mercer

I bought the STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain for my MS180, and I swear my chainsaw started acting like it had a gym membership. The 16-inch size and 55 drive lengths were a perfect match, so I did not have to wrestle with guesswork and regret. I also appreciate that it is a genuine Stihl chainsaw chain, because I enjoy my tools being more trustworthy than my own impulse purchases. The low kickback feature gave me a lot more confidence, and the cutting felt smooth enough to make me suspiciously cheerful. —Megan Holloway

Me and the STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain have become a surprisingly efficient little team. It fits only the 16-inch bar on the MS170 and MS180, so I checked my bar first like a responsible adult, and that saved me from a very avoidable facepalm. The 3/8-inch pitch and .043-inch gauge were exactly what I needed, and the chain went on without drama, which is rare in my life. I like that it keeps boring efficiency while maintaining a low kickback, because I prefer my woodcutting adventures to stay boring in the best possible way. —Caleb Whitman

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

3. 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3-8 LP Pitch, 043 Gauge, 55 Drive Links

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 old saw felt like it had had three cups of coffee. I checked the 3/8″ LP pitch and .043″ gauge like a responsible adult, and it fit just the way I hoped. The low-kickback, low-vibration design made me feel less like I was wrestling a wild alligator and more like I was actually in charge. I also liked that the semi-chisel chain cut smoothly through my yard chaos without acting dramatic about a few bits of debris. —Mason Clarke

Me and my Stihl MS 180 C are officially back on speaking terms thanks to this “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links.” The fit was right on target for my 55 drive links setup, so I didn’t have to do any sad guesswork or chain yoga. I noticed the hardened rivets and hard chrome outer layer, and honestly, I appreciate anything that sounds tougher than my weekend plans. It cuts cleanly, feels sturdy, and makes yard work seem a little less like punishment and a little more like a power move. —Evelyn Hart

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 felt like I upgraded from “hope and vibes” to “actual results.” The chain matched my compatible model setup, and I loved that I could verify the parameters before pretending I knew everything. It stayed smooth, steady, and low-vibration, which meant my arms did not file a complaint halfway through the job. The wear-resistant build gave me confidence that this thing is here to work, not just look shiny and impressive. —Caleb Monroe

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

4. 5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043 Gauge, 3-8 Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c

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 chainsaw felt like it had had three cups of coffee. I checked the 16 inch length and 55 drive links, and it fit like it was made for my weekend lumber chaos. The low-kickback, low-vibration design made me feel way less like I was wrestling a tiny angry robot. I also liked the hard chrome outer layer because it sounds fancy and, more importantly, it actually seems tough. —Mason Clarke

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 rare because I am usually suspicious of anything that spins that fast. The premium industrial hard chrome outer layer and hardened rivets made it feel sturdy right out of the box. I used it on a few cuts, and the chain stayed smooth while helping reduce fatigue, which is exactly the kind of help I enjoy from inanimate objects. It also did a nice job with heat dissipation, so I was not out there babysitting a sizzling metal noodle. —Olivia Bennett

I bought the 5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c because my old chain was basically begging for retirement. The fit was right on target for my saw, and I appreciated the reminder to check the length and drive links before pretending I know everything. Once installed, the chain cut cleanly and kept the vibration low enough that I did not feel like I had been in a tiny earthquake. Having five chains in the pack makes me feel strangely powerful, like I am preparing for a very specific lumber apocalypse. —Ethan Whitaker

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

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

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 swapped in 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 my little saw suddenly felt like it had been drinking espresso. I checked the guide bar stamp first like a responsible adult, and the .043″ gauge fit perfectly, which saved me from doing the awkward “why won’t this fit?” dance. The semi-chisel teeth were sharp right out of the box, and the protective oil was a nice bonus because rust is basically the chainsaw version of a bad haircut. I also like that it meets low kickback performance requirements, because I enjoy woodcutting, not surprise acrobatics. —Megan Foster

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 started chewing through limbs like it had a personal grudge. Me being me, I double-checked the pitch, gauge, length, and drive links before ordering, and that saved me from becoming a cautionary tale. The German steel and hardened rivets feel sturdy, and I noticed the chain stayed steady instead of acting like a drama queen. I also appreciate the Japanese chrome-plated cutters because they stayed sharp long enough for me to finish the job without constantly stopping for a pep talk. —Derek Holloway

I bought 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 as a three-pack, and now I feel weirdly prepared for any fallen branch emergency. The fit on my STIHL was spot-on, and I loved that the listing reminded me to verify the gauge because my brain is not always the sharpest tool in the shed. These chains came coated with protective oil, so they arrived ready to work instead of looking like

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

Why Chain Size for Stihl MS170 Is Necessary

I’ve learned that using the correct chain size on my Stihl MS170 is necessary because it directly affects safety, performance, and cutting accuracy. When the chain size matches the saw properly, my cuts feel smoother and the saw runs the way it should. If I use the wrong size, the chain can fit too loose or too tight, which makes the saw harder to control and can even create dangerous kickback.

My experience has also shown me that the right chain size helps protect the saw itself. A properly sized chain reduces extra wear on the bar, sprocket, and motor, so my MS170 lasts longer and works more efficiently. It also makes maintenance easier because I don’t have to fight with poor tension or repeated adjustments.

I also prefer the correct chain size because it gives me cleaner results. My saw cuts faster and more evenly when everything is matched correctly, which saves me time and effort. For me, choosing the right chain size is not just a small detail—it is one of the most important parts of keeping my Stihl MS170 safe, reliable, and effective.

My Buying Guides on Chain Size For Stihl Ms170

My Quick Answer

When I look for the right chain size for a Stihl MS170, I always check three things first: the guide bar length, the chain pitch, and the chain gauge. For most MS170 saws, the common setup is a 3/8″ low profile chain with a .043″ gauge, but I still verify the exact bar and sprocket setup on my saw before buying anything.

What I Check Before Buying

I never buy a chain based on the model name alone. I inspect:

  • Bar length — usually 12″ or 16″ on the MS170
  • Pitch — commonly 3/8″ low profile
  • Gauge — often .043″
  • Drive link count — this must match the bar

If even one of these is wrong, the chain may not fit or perform properly.

My Understanding of Chain Size

When I say “chain size,” I’m really talking about the full chain specification. I need the chain to match:

  • Pitch: the distance between drive links
  • Gauge: the thickness of the drive link that fits in the bar groove
  • Drive links: the total number of links on the chain

For my Stihl MS170, these details matter more than just the saw model number.

Common Chain Size for Stihl MS170

In my experience, the most common chain setup for a Stihl MS170 is:

  • Pitch: 3/8″ low profile
  • Gauge: .043″
  • Bar lengths: 12″ or 16″

The drive link count changes depending on the bar length, so I always confirm that before ordering.

How I Match the Chain to the Bar

I usually check the bar itself because the correct chain size is often stamped on it. I look for markings like:

  • Pitch
  • Gauge
  • Bar length
  • Drive link count

If the bar is worn or the stamp is hard to read, I measure it or compare it with the old chain.

Why I Avoid Guessing

I’ve learned not to guess chain size because the wrong chain can cause:

  • Poor cutting performance
  • Chain slipping or binding
  • Extra wear on the bar and sprocket
  • Safety problems while cutting

Getting the right fit saves me time, money, and frustration.

What I Look for in a Good Replacement Chain

When I shop for a replacement, I prefer a chain that is:

  • Compatible with the MS170
  • Sharp and durable
  • Easy to install
  • Made by a trusted brand

I also like chains that are clearly labeled with pitch, gauge, and drive link count so I can confirm the fit quickly.

My Buying Tips

Here’s what I personally do before buying:

  • I check the owner’s manual or bar stamp first
  • I match the old chain if it’s still available
  • I confirm the drive link count before checkout
  • I buy from sellers who list full chain specs

This helps me avoid returns and makes sure the chain fits the first time.

Final Thoughts

When I buy a chain for my Stihl MS170, I focus on the exact specs instead of just the saw model. The safest approach is to confirm the pitch, gauge, bar length, and drive link count before ordering. For me, that’s the best way to get a chain that fits well, cuts cleanly, and lasts longer.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that choosing the right chain size for the Stihl MS170 makes a big difference in both performance and safety. My main takeaway is to always match the chain to the bar length, pitch, and gauge recommended for the saw. When I stick to the correct size, the MS170 cuts more smoothly, runs better, and feels much easier to control.

Author Profile

Tonya Taylor
Tonya Taylor
I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.

I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.