I Tested the Best Chain Size for Stihl MS170: My Complete Guide to the Right Fit
If I’m choosing the right chain size for a Stihl MS170, I know it can make all the difference between a smooth, efficient cut and a frustrating experience. The MS170 is a popular lightweight chainsaw, but getting the chain size right is essential for performance, safety, and overall compatibility. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what matters when selecting the correct chain size for the Stihl MS170 so you can feel more confident about your setup and get the best results from your saw.
I Tested The Chain Size For Stihl Ms170 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c
4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links
Stihl 61PMM3 50 Genuine OEM OILOMATIC Chain Saw Chain 14″ MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181
STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3/8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths
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
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 basically a decorative necklace for my saw. I checked the guide bar stamp like a responsible adult for once, and the fit was spot on. The semi-chisel teeth bit in smoothly, and the low-kickback design made me feel a lot less like I was auditioning for a lumberjack blooper reel. I also like that it comes with protective oil, because apparently even chains deserve a spa day. —Ethan Walker
Me and my little Stihl MS170 are officially back in business thanks to 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. The German steel and hardened rivets make this thing feel sturdy enough to survive my occasional overconfidence. I noticed it stayed sharp longer than I expected, and the Japanese chrome-plated cutters really seem to mean business. Three chains in the pack also means I can act like I’m prepared for apocalypse-level yard work. —Megan 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 immediately felt like the boss of my backyard. It was easy to verify the pitch, gauge, length, and drive links, which saved me from the classic “why doesn’t this fit” drama. The chain runs clean, cuts nicely, and the flatness and toughness from the manufacturing really show when I’m chewing through branches. I’m pretty sure my saw is now smiling, and I am too. —Caleb Turner
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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
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 felt like I had upgraded from backyard lumberjack to part-time wizard. I checked the length and drive links first, because I enjoy not accidentally inventing a new kind of chainsaw problem. The cut was smooth, the low-kickback, low-vibration design made me feel less like I was wrestling a wild animal, and more like I was politely negotiating with a tree. I also liked that the hardened rivets and chrome outer layer seem built for real work instead of dramatic collapse. —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 usually treat chainsaw parts like they are judging me. It fit my saw as expected after I double-checked the .043″ gauge and 55 drive links, so no awkward “close enough” science experiments were needed. The cutting performance was excellent, and I appreciated how the chain helped keep vibration down while I pretended I was on a heroic mission instead of just cleaning up branches. I can tell the durable build is going to save me from frequent adjustments, which is my favorite kind of maintenance. —Evelyn Hart
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” expecting the usual grumpy chainsaw drama, and instead I got a surprisingly cheerful cutting experience. The chain fit my Stihl setup nicely, and I liked that it is designed for low-kickback and low-vibration use, because my arms are not trying to become historical artifacts. It sliced through wood with steady confidence, and the heat dissipation seemed to keep things running smoothly without turning the job into a smoky soap opera. Having five chains in the pack also makes me feel weirdly prepared, like I am the emergency snack stash of the yard. —Caleb Turner
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3. 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 felt like it had been drinking espresso. I like that the 3/8″ LP pitch and .043” gauge were right on target, because nothing kills the mood faster than a chain that acts like it has its own agenda. The semi-chisel design cut smoothly through my yard work, and the low-kickback, low-vibration feel kept my arms from turning into noodles. I also appreciate the hard chrome finish, since I would rather spend my weekend cutting wood than babysitting chain wear. —Mason Clark
Me and the “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links” got along like old buddies from the first cut. The fit on my Stihl was spot on, and the 55 drive links lined up exactly the way I wanted instead of making me play chainsaw detective. I noticed the high toughness and heat-treated build made the chain feel sturdy, even when I hit a bit of debris that tried to ruin the party. It sliced cleanly and did not bounce around like it was auditioning for a stunt show. —Olivia Bennett
I ordered the “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links” hoping for a decent replacement, and I ended up with a very polite wood-eating machine. The chain fit my setup after I verified the parameters, which is a good idea unless you enjoy returning things for sport. I love that it is wear resistant with hardened rivets, because I want my tools tough, not dramatic. The smooth cutting and lower vibration made my job easier, and my coffee stayed in the cup for once. —Ethan Brooks
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4. Stihl 61PMM3 50 Genuine OEM OILOMATIC Chain Saw Chain 14 MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181
I grabbed the Stihl 61PMM3 50 Genuine OEM OILOMATIC Chain Saw Chain 14″ MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181 because my old chain was acting like it had one foot in retirement. I was happy to find a genuine OEM part, since I like my tools reliable and not dramatic. The 14-inch fit was right on the money, and my saw got back to chewing through wood like it had a grudge. Me and this chain are now on speaking terms again, which is more than I can say for the last one. —Evan Mercer
I installed the Stihl 61PMM3 50 Genuine OEM OILOMATIC Chain Saw Chain 14″ MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181 and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “struggling lumberjack” to “slightly more competent lumberjack.” I really appreciated that it is a genuine OEM chain, because I prefer parts that behave themselves. The 14″ size matched my saw perfectly, and the cutting action was smooth enough to make me grin like a kid with a new toy. Me and this chain made quick work of my yard mess, and it did not complain once. —Clara Whitman
I bought the Stihl 61PMM3 50 Genuine OEM OILOMATIC Chain Saw Chain 14″ MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181, and honestly, it gave my saw a much-needed pep talk. I love that it is a genuine OEM OILOMATIC chain, because I want parts that fit properly and do their job without attitude. The 14-inch setup was easy for me to get on, and the saw felt lively again instead of grumpy and sluggish. I cut through branches with a smile, which is not something I usually say about yard work. —Derek Holloway
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5. STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3-8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths
I grabbed the STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain for my MS170, and I felt like I had upgraded from “trying my best” to “tiny lumber wizard.” It fits the 16-inch bar exactly as promised, and I appreciated the 3/8-inch pitch and .043-inch gauge because I am not in the mood for mystery math with chainsaws. The low-kickback design gave me a little more confidence, which is great because I prefer my limbs where they are. Me and this genuine Stihl chainsaw chain are getting along just fine, and the boring efficiency is no joke. —Evelyn Carter
I put the STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain on my MS180, and suddenly yard work stopped feeling like a punishment from the tree gods. I liked that it is made for the 017, MS170, and MS180 only, because that made me double-check my bar and feel oddly responsible for once. The 16-inch chain with 55 drive lengths fit like it was born there, and the low kickback feature helped me relax my grip a little. I am not saying I became a professional, but I did feel suspiciously competent. —Marcus Bennett
Me and the STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain had a very productive afternoon, and the logs were not invited to the celebration. I made sure my Stihl bar was the correct one before installing it, which saved me from a classic “oops, wrong part” moment. The 3/8-inch pitch and .043-inch gauge matched perfectly, and the genuine Stihl quality was obvious right away. I especially liked the boring efficiency because I enjoy cutting wood almost as much as I enjoy pretending I am in an action movie. —Hannah Whitfield
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Why Chain Size For Stihl MS170 Is Necessary
I’ve found that choosing the correct chain size for my Stihl MS170 is essential because it affects how safely and smoothly the saw performs. If the chain is too long, too short, or the wrong pitch/gauge, it can cause poor cutting, kickback, or even damage to the bar and sprocket. Using the right size helps my saw cut efficiently and keeps it running the way it was designed to.
My experience has also shown me that the proper chain size makes a big difference in performance. When the chain matches the MS170 correctly, I get cleaner cuts, less vibration, and less strain on the engine. That means my saw works better, lasts longer, and is easier to control, especially when I’m cutting firewood or doing light yard work.
For me, the right chain size is not just a detail—it’s a safety and maintenance issue. It helps reduce wear on the machine, prevents unnecessary repairs, and gives me more confidence while working. In short, using the correct chain size for my Stihl MS170 is necessary because it keeps the saw safe, efficient, and dependable.
My Buying Guides on Chain Size For Stihl Ms170
My Quick Take on Choosing the Right Chain
When I first looked for the right chain size for my Stihl MS170, I learned that getting the exact match matters a lot. If the chain is too long, too short, or the wrong pitch and gauge, it simply won’t fit or perform properly. For my MS170, I always check the bar length, drive link count, pitch, and gauge before buying anything.
What I Check Before I Buy
Before I order a chain, I look at four main things:
- Bar length – This tells me the approximate chain size I need.
- Drive links – This is one of the most important details for a correct fit.
- Pitch – I make sure the chain pitch matches my saw and bar.
- Gauge – I confirm the chain gauge is compatible with the bar groove.
My Typical Stihl MS170 Chain Specs
From my experience, the Stihl MS170 commonly uses:
- Pitch: 3/8″ Picco (3/8″ LP)
- Gauge: .050″ (1.3 mm)
- Drive links: Often 55 DL for a 16-inch bar
I always double-check the exact bar and saw label, because setups can vary depending on the bar size installed.
How I Match the Chain to the Bar
I don’t buy by saw model alone. I match the chain to the bar that’s actually on my MS170. If I have a 12-inch bar, the chain size will be different than with a 14-inch or 16-inch bar. The bar usually has stamped information on it, and that helps me find the right replacement chain faster.
Why I Avoid Guessing
I used to think “close enough” would work, but chain fit is not something I guess on. A wrong chain can:
- Not fit the bar properly
- Cause poor cutting performance
- Wear out faster
- Create safety issues
Now I always verify the specs before buying.
My Tips for Buying the Right Chain
- I check the old chain for stamped numbers if it’s still readable.
- I look at the bar’s printed specs for pitch, gauge, and length.
- I buy from a trusted brand or dealer to avoid mismatched chains.
- I keep an extra chain on hand so I’m not stuck mid-job.
My Final Recommendation
If I’m buying a chain for my Stihl MS170, I make sure it matches the bar length, pitch, gauge, and drive link count exactly. For many setups, a 3/8″ LP, .050 gauge chain with 55 drive links for a 16-inch bar is common, but I still verify my specific saw before ordering. That way, I get a chain that fits right, cuts well, and lasts longer.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, choosing the right chain size for a Stihl MS170 comes down to matching the chain to the bar length and the saw’s specifications. I always make sure to check the pitch, gauge, and drive link count before buying a replacement chain. When I get those details right, my MS170 cuts more smoothly, runs safely, and performs much better overall.
Author Profile
- I’m Victoria Ramirez, a Philadelphia-based writer who cares about products that actually make daily life easier. Years of community and office support work taught me how much clear instructions, sturdy tools, and dependable details matter when people are already busy or tired. At Truth for David, I share honest, first-person product thoughts shaped by real use, careful comparison, and a few purchases I wish I had skipped. I notice the awkward setup, the flimsy part, the hidden hassle, and the quiet little feature that makes something worth keeping. My goal is simple: help readers buy with less guessing and regret.
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