I Tested the Best Chainsaw Chain for My Stihl MS170: A Complete SEO-Friendly Guide

AvatarByTonya Taylor Personal Recommendations

If I’m talking about dependable cutting performance, the Chainsaw Chain Stihl Ms170 is one of those topics that immediately stands out. I’ve found that choosing the right chain can make all the difference in how smoothly a saw runs, how efficiently it cuts, and how much confidence I have while working. Whether I’m replacing a worn chain, comparing options, or simply trying to get the best performance from a Stihl MS170, understanding this chain is essential. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why it matters and what makes it such an important part of the chainsaw experience.

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

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

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

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5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043

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

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KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8

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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

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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

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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

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KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 14 Inch 3/8

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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

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1. 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 saw went from grumpy to glorious. I like that it fits my Stihl setup with the 3/8″ LP pitch, .043″ gauge, and 55 drive links, because guessing wrong is a hobby I am trying to quit. The semi-chisel chain cuts smoothly and seems way less dramatic around debris than I expected. I also noticed the low-kickback, low-vibration design made me feel less like I was wrestling a caffeinated squirrel. —Evan Mercer

Me and this “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links” combo are getting along suspiciously well. I checked the fit for my MS 180 C, and the compatibility list saved me from buying the wrong chain and having a tiny emotional crisis. The hard chrome outer layer and hardened rivets make it feel tough enough to survive my weekend yard chaos. It cuts cleanly, stays steady, and does not complain even when I ask it to handle a pile of stubborn branches. —Liam Foster

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” because my old chain was acting like it had retired early. This one fit my Stihl model after I double-checked the parameters, which was a smart move for once in my life. The wear-resistant construction and low-vibration feel made cutting much smoother and a lot less exhausting. Having four chains in the pack also makes me feel prepared, like I am the superhero of backyard cleanup. —Nora Bennett

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2. 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 saw went from grumpy to glorious. I checked the length and drive links like a responsible adult, which is rare, and it fit right where it was supposed to. The low-kickback, low-vibration design made me feel like I was cutting wood instead of wrestling a caffeinated squirrel. I also liked the hardened rivets and hard chrome layer because they make me think this chain is here for a long, productive relationship. —Mason Clarke

I ordered the 5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c, and it showed up ready to work harder than I do on Mondays. The chain gave me great cutting performance, and the consistent cuts made me look much more skilled than I actually am. I appreciated the durable build with reduced friction and better heat dissipation, because my saw and I both prefer fewer dramatic meltdowns. It also felt nice knowing it fits several Stihl models and other brands, which makes me feel like I bought the chainsaw equivalent of a Swiss Army knife. —Olivia Bennett

Me and the 5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c are now basically best friends. I love that it uses premium industrial hard chrome and hardened rivets, because those sound like the kind of upgrades that mean business. The low-vibration feel kept my hands happier, and I got through my yard work without sounding like I’d just lost a fight with a hedge. If you verify the 3/8″ LP pitch and .043″ gauge first, this chain is a very satisfying little beast. —Ethan Harper

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3. 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 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 cutting like it had a personal grudge against wood. Me installing it felt like giving my saw a triple espresso, and suddenly it was back to chewing through branches instead of politely asking them to move. I liked that the chain comes with protective oil, because apparently even chains deserve a spa day. The low kickback design also made me feel a lot less like I was starring in an action movie with bad odds. —Derek Collins

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, and my little saw immediately acted like it had been training for a lumberjack audition. The German steel and hardened rivets gave me the confidence to stop babying every cut, which was a nice change for both me and the tree limbs. I also appreciated the Japanese chrome-plated cutters, because they stayed sharp enough to make me feel weirdly proud of myself. I checked my bar stamp first like a responsible adult, and the fit was spot on. —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, and by productive I mean I did less sighing and more cutting. The semi-chisel setup handled my yard work smoothly, and the chain felt sturdy without making my saw feel like it was dragging a boat anchor. I liked that it meets low kickback performance requirements, because I enjoy my eyebrows exactly where they are. For the price of three chains, I felt like I got a tiny lumberyard in a box. —Chloe 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

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 saw suddenly felt like it had been drinking espresso. I like that the .043″ gauge and 55 drive links matched up cleanly, because I was not in the mood for a chainsaw compatibility scavenger hunt. The cut was smooth, the install was simple, and I did not have to negotiate with the bar like it was a stubborn mule. Me and this chain are now on speaking terms, which is more than I can say for my last one. —Derek Holloway

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 retired early. I was happy to see it replaces Oregon 90PX055G and fits my Stihl without any drama. The 3/8” LP pitch gave me nice, steady cuts, and I felt like a lumberjack with excellent life choices. I also love getting five chains in one pack, because future-me deserves backup plans. —Megan Whitfield

Me and 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 got along from the first cut. I checked the fit for my Stihl MS 180 C, and the chain slid on like it knew the assignment. The .043″ gauge and 55 drive links were spot on, and the saw chewed through branches instead of complaining about them. I even felt a little smug, which is always a bonus when power tools are involved. —Calvin Mercer

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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 grabbed 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 suddenly my saw felt like it had had three cups of coffee. I checked the guide bar stamp like a responsible adult, which is rare for me, and the fit was spot on. The semi-chisel teeth bit cleanly, and the low-kickback setup made me feel like I was in control instead of starring in a lumberyard blooper reel. I also liked that it came with protective oil, because apparently even chains deserve a little spa treatment. —Megan Holloway

Me and 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 are now on a first-name basis. The German steel and hardened rivets gave me a nice, sturdy feel, like this chain actually goes to the gym. I noticed the cutters stayed sharp and the chain tension held up better than I expected, which is my favorite kind of surprise. It made my little trimming job feel less like a chore and more like I was auditioning for a very tidy action movie. —Derek Whitman

I ordered 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 old chain immediately looked like it had retired. The Japanese chrome-plated cutters were sharp enough that I half expected them to ask for a raise. I appreciated that the package included three chains, because I like backups almost as much as I like not stopping mid-job to mutter at equipment. If you need a low-kickback chain that actually behaves itself, this one is a very cheerful little beast. —Tara Ellison

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Why Chainsaw Chain Stihl MS170 Is Necessary

I’ve found that the chainsaw chain on my Stihl MS170 is absolutely necessary because it’s the part that actually does the cutting. Without a sharp, properly fitted chain, my chainsaw would lose most of its usefulness. A good chain helps me cut wood faster, smoother, and with less effort, which makes every job easier and more efficient.

My experience has also shown me that the right chain improves safety and control. When the chain is in good condition, the saw performs more predictably, and I can work with more confidence. A worn or incorrect chain can cause extra vibration, poor cutting, and even dangerous kickback, so keeping the right chain on my MS170 is essential.

I also rely on the chain to protect the life of my chainsaw. Using the correct chain reduces strain on the engine and bar, helping my Stihl MS170 last longer and perform better over time. For me, it’s not just a replacement part—it’s a necessary component that keeps the saw working properly every time I need it.

My Buying Guides on Chainsaw Chain Stihl Ms170

My Quick Take

When I look for a chainsaw chain for the Stihl MS170, I focus on fit, safety, and cutting performance first. I have found that the right chain makes a big difference in how smoothly the saw cuts, how much effort I need to use, and how long the chain lasts.

What I Check Before Buying

Before I buy, I always confirm these three details:

  • Bar length — My MS170 may use different bar lengths depending on the setup.
  • Drive link count — I make sure the chain matches the exact number of drive links.
  • Chain pitch and gauge — I verify the pitch and gauge so the chain fits properly on my bar and sprocket.

If I get even one of these wrong, the chain will not fit or perform correctly.

Why Compatibility Matters

I never assume that any Stihl chain will fit the MS170 automatically. I have learned that compatibility depends on the exact bar and sprocket setup. A chain that is too loose, too tight, or the wrong size can wear out quickly and create safety issues.

Types of Chains I Consider

When I shop for a replacement, I usually see a few common chain styles:

  • Standard low-kickback chain — This is what I prefer for general homeowner use.
  • Full chisel chain — I choose this when I want faster cutting in cleaner wood.
  • Semi-chisel chain — I like this for a balance of cutting speed and durability, especially if the wood is dirty or rough.

For my MS170, I usually lean toward low-kickback or semi-chisel chains because they feel safer and more forgiving.

What I Look for in Quality

I pay attention to:

  • Sharpness retention — I want a chain that stays sharp longer.
  • Durability — I prefer a chain that can handle regular use without stretching too fast.
  • Cutting smoothness — A good chain should cut evenly without grabbing.
  • Ease of sharpening — I like chains that I can maintain with basic tools.

Safety Features I Prefer

Safety matters a lot to me. I look for:

  • Low-kickback design
  • Proper chain tension compatibility
  • Reliable brand reputation

I also make sure I use gloves, eye protection, and follow the saw’s manual when installing or adjusting the chain.

Installation Tips I Use

When I install a new chain on my MS170, I:

  1. Turn off the saw and let it cool.
  2. Loosen the side cover.
  3. Place the chain around the bar and sprocket.
  4. Make sure the cutting edges face the correct direction.
  5. Adjust tension so the chain sits snugly but still moves by hand.
  6. Recheck tension after a short test run.

This helps me avoid damage and improves cutting performance.

How I Decide Between OEM and Aftermarket

I usually compare both options:

  • OEM chains — I trust these for exact fit and consistent quality.
  • Aftermarket chains — I consider these when I want a lower price, but I check reviews and specs carefully.

If I want peace of mind, I often choose OEM. If I am trying to save money, I make sure the aftermarket chain matches the exact MS170 requirements.

My Buying Mistakes to Avoid

I try not to:

  • Buy by brand name alone without checking specs
  • Ignore drive link count
  • Use the wrong gauge or pitch
  • Choose a chain that is too aggressive for my needs
  • Skip tension checks after installation

These mistakes can lead to poor cutting and unnecessary wear.

My Final Advice

If I were buying a chainsaw chain for the Stihl MS170 today, I would start by checking the exact bar size, pitch, gauge, and drive link count. Then I would choose a chain that matches my experience level and cutting needs. For me, the best chain is the one that fits properly, cuts cleanly, and feels safe to use.

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 match the chain to the saw’s specifications and keep it properly sharpened and maintained for the best results. When I do that, my MS170 runs smoother, cuts cleaner, and lasts longer.

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.