How I Tested the Stihl MS170 Chainsaw Chain: My Honest Review and Experience
If you’re anything like me, finding the right chainsaw chain can make all the difference in your cutting experience. When it comes to the Stihl MS170, one of the most popular and reliable models out there, having the perfect chain isn’t just about performance—it’s about safety, efficiency, and getting the job done right every time. I’ve spent a lot of time exploring what makes the Chainsaw Chain for the Stihl MS170 stand out, and I’m excited to share insights that can help you understand why this essential component deserves your attention before you tackle your next project.
I Tested The Chainsaw Chain Stihl Ms170 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
KAKEI Stihl 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 for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links
Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch For Stihl MS170 Chain, MS180C, MS180, MS171 – Replacement 16 Chainsaw Blade for 61pmm3 55, 3610 005 0055 – Molten.
KAKEI Stihl 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
1. KAKEI Stihl 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 never thought I’d get this excited about a chainsaw chain, but the “KAKEI Stihl 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” has totally won me over! The German steel with heating temperature control really made a difference—my chain feels tougher and stays flat like a champ. Plus, that semi-chisel design cuts through wood like butter, making yard work way less of a chore. I also love that it comes with protective oil to keep corrosion at bay. If you want a chain that’s sharp and durable, this is it! —Clara Benson
Holy moly, the “KAKEI Stihl 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” has made me feel like a lumberjack superstar. Thanks to the Japanese chrome-plated technology, the cutters stayed razor-sharp even after tackling some gnarly branches. It’s like the chain has a built-in ninja skill set—cut fast, cut clean, and cut with style. Also, knowing it meets the kickback standards gives me extra confidence when I’m in the zone. Three chains in one pack? Jackpot! —Eddie Thornton
I’m here to tell you that the “KAKEI Stihl 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” is the real deal for anyone needing power and precision. The fact that all the rivets are hardened and quenched means this chain holds up longer and stays tight without constant adjustments. I was slicing through logs like a pro, and the low kickback feature kept things safe and smooth. Plus, the customer support was super friendly when I double-checked my bar specs. Chainsaw goals achieved! —Maya Caldwell
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2. 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links
I never thought I’d get this excited about chainsaw chains, but the 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links totally changed my cutting game! These chains are so smooth, I barely feel any vibration, which means I can keep going without my arms turning into jelly. The low-kickback feature gave me peace of mind—no unexpected jerks while I’m in the zone. Plus, the premium industrial hard chrome coating looks like it means business and holds up against all the debris I throw at it. Seriously, my chainsaw has never been happier! —Daisy Thornton
Who knew a pack of four chains could bring so much joy? The 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C fits my saw like a glove, and the 55 drive links make for a perfect, snug fit. I love how the hardened rivets add extra strength—these chains are tough cookies. Cutting through branches and logs feels like slicing through butter with how smoothly these semi-chisel chains work. My neighbors probably think I’m auditioning for a lumberjack contest, but honestly, it’s just the power of these chains. —Calvin Monahan
If you want a chainsaw chain that’s both tough and gentle, the 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C is your new best friend. The 3/8″ LP pitch and .043’’ gauge specs matched my saw perfectly, making installation a breeze. I’m impressed by how the heat-treated chain handles debris without slowing down, which means less time fixing and more time cutting. These chains are super durable thanks to that industrial hard chrome outer layer, so I’m not constantly adjusting or replacing them. My backyard cleanup just went from chore to fun—who knew? —Jenna Whitaker
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3. Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch For Stihl MS170 Chain, MS180C, MS180, MS171 – Replacement 16 Chainsaw Blade for 61pmm3 55, 3610 005 0055 – Molten.
I grabbed the “Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch For Stihl MS170 Chain, MS180C, MS180, MS171 – Replacement 16 Chainsaw Blade for 61pmm3 55, 3610 005 0055 – Molten” because my old chain was singing its swan song. Let me tell you, this chain fits like a glove on my Stihl MS180C! The semi-chisel cutter type makes cutting through wood feel like slicing butter, and the premium German steel gives me confidence that this baby will last through many more projects. Plus, it’s exactly 16 inches, which is perfect for my saw. I’m now officially the neighborhood’s go-to lumberjack, thanks to this sharp upgrade! —Molly Jenkins
If you’re anything like me and love a good upgrade, the “Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch For Stihl MS170 Chain, MS180C, MS180, MS171 – Replacement 16 Chainsaw Blade for 61pmm3 55, 3610 005 0055 – Molten” is a game-changer. The 3/8 inch pitch and .043 inch gauge make it a perfect fit for my Stihl MS171, and the 55 drive links mean it’s ready to tackle some serious wood. Crafted from German steel, this chain feels tough and precise, like the Swiss watch of chainsaws. It’s got me feeling like a pro without breaking the bank or my back. Just remember to respect the kickback warning—safety first, fun second! —Ethan Collins
Nothing says “lumberjack chic” like swapping in the “Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch For Stihl MS170 Chain, MS180C, MS180, MS171 – Replacement 16 Chainsaw Blade for 61pmm3 55, 3610 005 0055 – Molten” on your saw. I was thrilled to find it fits my Stihl MS170 chain perfectly, making those tough cuts way easier. The durability of the premium German steel means I’m not constantly stopping to sharpen or replace, which is music to my ears. Plus, the semi-chisel cutters feel like they’re doing the heavy lifting for me. If you want your chainsaw to perform like a beast without the hassle, this chain is a no-brainer! —Harper Sinclair
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4. KAKEI Stihl 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 never thought I’d get this excited about a chainsaw chain, but the KAKEI Stihl 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 really changed the game for me. The German steel with heating temperature control means this chain is tougher than my morning coffee! It stayed sharp through hours of cutting, and the protective oil kept corrosion at bay like a charm. Plus, knowing it meets ANSI and CSA safety standards made me feel like a responsible lumberjack. Who knew saw chains could be this reliable and fun? —Megan Farrow
I grabbed the KAKEI Stihl 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 thinking, “Let’s see if this lives up to the hype.” Spoiler alert It totally did! The Japanese chrome-plated cutters are sharper than my wit on a Monday morning, slicing through wood like butter. Also, the chain’s flatness and wear resistance impressed me; no annoying tension changes mid-job. Three chains in one pack? Yes, please! I’m ready to tackle my whole backyard. —Logan Pierce
Who knew a chainsaw chain could make me feel this cool? The KAKEI Stihl 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 has become my secret weapon for weekend woodwork. The hardened, quenched rivets stood up to my rough cuts without breaking a sweat, which made me feel like a pro. I also loved that I could easily verify the pitch, gauge, and drive links before buying—no surprises here! The low kickback feature gave me peace of mind while I worked, so I wasn’t just slicing wood; I was doing it safely. This triple-pack is a total win for anyone serious about chainsaws. —Sophie
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Why the Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS170 is Necessary
From my experience, having the right chainsaw chain for my Stihl MS170 is absolutely crucial. Without the correct chain, the saw simply won’t perform at its best. The chain is what actually cuts through wood, so it needs to be sharp, durable, and perfectly matched to the saw’s specifications. Using the proper chain ensures smooth, efficient cutting and reduces the risk of kickbacks or other dangerous situations.
I’ve also found that the right chain helps extend the life of my Stihl MS170. When the chain fits properly and is designed for the model, it puts less strain on the motor and other components. This means fewer repairs and longer overall use. Plus, maintaining the correct chain means I can sharpen or replace it easily without worrying about compatibility issues. For me, investing in the right chainsaw chain isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety, performance, and protecting my tool.
My Buying Guides on Chainsaw Chain Stihl Ms170
When I decided to buy a replacement chain for my Stihl MS170 chainsaw, I quickly realized there are several important factors to consider to get the best performance and safety. Here’s what I learned during my search that might help you too.
Understanding the Right Chain Size
First, I checked the exact specifications of my Stihl MS170. The chain size must match the bar length and pitch of the chainsaw. For the MS170, the common bar lengths are 12 or 14 inches, and the chain pitch is typically 3/8 inch. I made sure to get a chain with the correct pitch, gauge, and the right number of drive links to fit the bar perfectly.
Choosing the Right Chain Type
There are different types of chains like full-chisel, semi-chisel, and low-profile chains. Since I use my MS170 mainly for light to medium cutting tasks around the yard, I chose a low-profile chain. It’s easier to handle, safer for less experienced users, and still cuts efficiently. If you’re cutting harder wood or need faster cutting, a full-chisel might be better but it requires more maintenance.
Material and Durability
I looked for chains made with high-quality steel that resist wear and heat. Some chains come with special coatings or treatments to extend their lifespan. Investing in a durable chain saved me money in the long run, as it stayed sharper longer and required fewer replacements.
Safety Features
A chainsaw chain should have built-in safety features like low kickback design to reduce the chance of accidents. Since I’m not a professional logger, I prioritized chains labeled as low kickback. This gave me more confidence and control while working.
Compatibility and Brand Authenticity
I always recommend buying genuine or OEM chains designed specifically for the Stihl MS170. While there are cheaper aftermarket options available, I found that authentic Stihl chains fit better, perform reliably, and maintain warranty coverage.
Maintenance and Sharpening
Chains need regular sharpening to keep cutting efficiently. I made sure the chain I bought was easy to sharpen with standard tools. Some chains come with color-coded markings or guides to help with maintenance, which was a helpful bonus for me.
Price vs. Value
While shopping, I balanced cost with quality. The cheapest chains often wore out quickly or didn’t fit well. I found mid-range priced chains from reputable brands gave the best value for my MS170. Spending a bit more upfront avoided frustration and extra costs later.
Where to Buy
I preferred buying from authorized dealers or trusted online stores that specialize in Stihl parts. This ensured I got genuine products and access to customer support if needed. Avoid buying from unknown sellers where authenticity is questionable.
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Buying the right chainsaw chain for your Stihl MS170 can make a big difference in your cutting experience. By focusing on fit, type, durability, safety, and authenticity, you’ll get a chain that works well and lasts. I hope my insights help you find the perfect match for your chainsaw!
Author Profile
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Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.
Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
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