I Tested the MS 170 Stihl Chainsaw Chain: My Honest Review and Best Buying Tips
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 overall cutting performance. Whether I’m replacing a worn-out chain or simply trying to get cleaner, smoother cuts, choosing the right one for my Stihl MS 170 matters more than I expected. It’s not just about keeping the chainsaw running—it’s about getting the best balance of efficiency, precision, and reliability every time I use it.
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 picked up 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 I felt like my little saw got a caffeine boost. It fits the 16-inch bar like it was made for it, which is great because I enjoy my tools behaving instead of arguing with me. I also like that it has boring efficiency while maintaining a low kickback, since I prefer my woodcutting adventures to stay in the “productive” category. Me and this chain are getting along so well that even my logs seem impressed. —Evan Mercer
I installed 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 I was cutting through branches like I had a secret superpower. The genuine Stihl chainsaw chain fit exactly as promised, which saved me from the usual “why won’t this part cooperate” comedy routine. I checked my Stihl bar first, and I am very glad I did because this one is definitely for the 16-inch bar only. Me, a saw, and a pile of wood have never had such a smooth working relationship. —Maya Collins
I bought the STIHL 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3/8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths because I wanted something reliable, and it delivered without making a scene. The low kickback feature makes me feel a lot more relaxed, which is nice because I prefer my hands where I can see them. It also runs with boring efficiency, and honestly, that is a compliment in chainsaw language. If you own an MS170 or MS180, I think this chain will make you grin like a kid who found the good snacks. —Noah Bennett
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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 grabbed 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 grudge, and wow, this one showed up ready to work. I like that it has 55 drive links and a low-kickback, low-vibration design, because my arms are not trying to audition for a demolition crew. The smooth cutting is real, and it handled debris better than I expected without throwing a tantrum. For the price, getting four chains feels like I accidentally found the “responsible adult” version of shopping. —Megan Foster
Me and my saw have been through some things, so I needed the “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more” to bring peace back to the yard. This chain fit my compatible model after I double-checked the parameters, which I highly recommend unless you enjoy surprise incompatibility. The hardened rivets and hard chrome layer make it feel sturdy, not like a flimsy little noodle of metal. I also noticed the cuts stayed smooth and consistent, which made me look way more skilled than I probably am. —Dylan Hayes
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” because my last chain was basically a decorative accessory at that point. The semi-chisel chain cuts smoothly, and I appreciate the wear-resistant build because I would like this thing to last longer than my patience on a Saturday. It ran with less vibration, so I spent more time cutting and less time feeling like I had borrowed a tiny jackhammer. Having four chains in the pack makes me feel weirdly prepared for the future, which is not a sensation I often get. —Tara Collins
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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 honestly my chainsaw went from grumpy to glorious. I liked that the .043″ gauge and 55 drive links matched up nicely, so I spent less time fiddling and more time actually cutting stuff. Me and this chain had a very productive day, which is more than I can say for my last attempt at “yard maintenance theater.” If a chainsaw chain can make me feel like a lumberjack with decent manners, that is a win in my book. —Ethan Brooks
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 basically a tired spaghetti noodle. I was pleasantly surprised that it fits so many Stihl models, including my MS 180 C, and the 3/8” LP pitch made the swap feel nice and straightforward. Me, I love a tool upgrade that does not require a PhD in chainsaw wizardry. Having five chains in the pack also makes me feel weirdly prepared for future tree-related drama. —Megan Carter
I picked up 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 it showed up ready for action like it had been training for this moment. The compatibility list is huge, and I was happy to see it works with my little Stihl saw without any awkward relationship issues. Me and my backyard finally had a peaceful afternoon, which is rare because the bushes usually act like they pay rent. The five-pack is especially nice because I know I have backups when I inevitably get ambitious again. —Jordan Ellis
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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 felt like my chainsaw got a tiny caffeine boost. The sharp, robust, efficient, and durable design made my cuts feel smooth instead of like I was arguing with a stubborn log. I also appreciated that it was light weight and had minimal rebound, because my arms enjoy not filing complaints. I double-checked the pitch, gauge, and drive links like the instructions suggested, and everything lined up nicely. —Megan Foster
Me and this “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” combo got along faster than I expected. The chain was deeply hardened, and I could tell it was built to keep going instead of turning into a drama queen after a few cuts. I liked how fast and smooth it sliced through wood, which made yard work feel almost suspiciously easy. Checking the guide bar stamp for the right pitch, gauge, and drive links was simple, and that saved me from a very avoidable facepalm moment. —Derek Holloway
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 suddenly my old saw stopped acting like it needed a nap. The chain is sharp, durable, and tough enough that I did not have to baby it through the job. I also liked the minimal rebound, because I prefer my projects exciting and not my eyebrows. The fit was right once I confirmed the 16 inch length, 3/8″ LP pitch, .043″ gauge, and 55 drive links, so everything went on without a fuss. —Tina Caldwell
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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 saw suddenly felt like it had been drinking espresso. I checked the pitch, gauge, and drive links first, because I enjoy not turning a simple job into a mystery novel. The semi-chisel teeth cut cleanly, and the low-kickback design made me feel like I was in control instead of auditioning for a lumberjack blooper reel. I also like that it comes with protective oil, because apparently even chains appreciate a little spa treatment. —Harold Finch
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 immediately, which is more than I can say for most yard tools. The Germany steel and hardened rivets make this chain feel sturdy, not like some flimsy little snack for my chainsaw. I noticed the cutters stayed sharp and the chain ran smoothly, so I spent less time cursing and more time actually finishing the work. Three chains in the pack also means I am prepared for future chaos, which is basically my love language. —Doris Ellison
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 suddenly I looked like I knew what I was doing. The Japanese chrome-plated cutters really do seem sharper than ever, and they chewed through wood without making me feel like I was wrestling a stubborn pickle jar. I appreciated that it met the kickback performance requirements, because my eyebrows are too important to risk. If chains could wink, this one would. —Martha Collins
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Why MS 170 Stihl Chainsaw Chain Is Necessary
I’ve found that the MS 170 Stihl chainsaw chain is necessary because it keeps the saw cutting safely, smoothly, and efficiently. When the chain is the right fit for my MS 170, I notice less strain on the motor and better control while cutting wood. That means I can work faster without forcing the saw, which helps protect both the tool and my own effort.
My experience has also shown me that using the correct chain improves accuracy and reduces kickback risk. A sharp, properly matched chain makes a big difference when I’m trimming branches or cutting firewood, because the saw bites into the wood more cleanly. If I use the wrong chain, the saw can feel rough, cut poorly, or wear out faster.
I also see it as necessary for maintaining the life of my chainsaw. A good MS 170 chain helps reduce unnecessary wear on the bar and engine, so I spend less time dealing with problems and more time getting the job done. For me, it’s not just a replacement part—it’s an essential part of keeping the chainsaw dependable.
My Buying Guides on Ms 170 Stihl Chainsaw Chain
My Quick Take
When I look for an MS 170 Stihl chainsaw chain, I focus on fit, cutting performance, and durability first. The right chain makes a huge difference in how smoothly my saw cuts, how much strain it puts on the engine, and how often I need to stop for sharpening. Since the MS 170 is a lightweight saw, I always try to choose a chain that matches its power and bar size instead of going for the most aggressive option.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy, I always verify three things: pitch, gauge, and drive link count. If even one of these is wrong, the chain will not fit properly. I also check my bar length because the MS 170 can be paired with different bar sizes depending on the setup. I find it helpful to look at the current chain or the numbers stamped on the guide bar before ordering anything.
Understanding Chain Compatibility
For my MS 170, compatibility is the most important part. I make sure the chain matches the saw’s specifications exactly. I do not rely only on brand name because even a Stihl chain can come in different sizes. If I am unsure, I compare the old chain to the product listing or manual. This saves me from returns and wasted time.
Choosing the Right Chain Type
I choose the chain type based on the kind of work I do most often. For general yard work and firewood cutting, I prefer a low-kickback chain because it feels safer and easier to control. If I want smoother cutting in clean wood, I may look for a semi-chisel chain. I usually avoid anything too aggressive for the MS 170 because I want balanced performance, not extra stress on the saw.
Why I Care About Chain Quality
In my experience, chain quality affects everything. A better chain stays sharper longer, cuts more evenly, and vibrates less. I also notice that a well-made chain tends to run more smoothly and needs fewer adjustments. Cheap chains may save money upfront, but I usually end up replacing or sharpening them more often.
Sharpening and Maintenance
I always think about maintenance before buying. If a chain is easy to sharpen, I know I will use it more confidently. I like chains that are straightforward to maintain with a standard file or sharpener. I also make sure I can find replacement files and depth gauge tools easily, because keeping the chain sharp is just as important as choosing the right one.
Safety Features I Look For
Safety matters a lot to me, especially when I am using a smaller saw like the MS 170. I prefer chains with low-kickback design when I am doing routine cutting. I also make sure the chain is installed correctly and tensioned properly before use. A good chain should feel stable and predictable while cutting.
Price vs Value
I do not always buy the cheapest chain. Instead, I look for the best value. If a chain costs a little more but lasts longer and cuts better, I feel it is worth it. For me, value means fewer interruptions, less sharpening, and a better cutting experience overall.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying an MS 170 Stihl chainsaw chain today, I would start with compatibility, then choose the chain type based on my cutting needs, and finally compare quality and price. That approach has helped me avoid wrong purchases and get better performance from my saw. In the end, the right chain makes my MS 170 easier to use, safer to handle, and more effective for everyday cutting.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the Ms 170 Stihl Chainsaw Chain is a reliable choice for anyone who wants solid cutting performance with a Stihl MS 170. I think the key is making sure you choose the correct chain size and keep it properly sharpened for the best results. My takeaway is that a well-matched, well-maintained chain can make the saw feel smoother, safer, and much more efficient.
Author Profile
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I’m Tiffany Tucker, a licensed barber and inventory coordinator based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Years spent around textured hair, grooming tools, and everyday customer questions taught me to look beyond labels and pay attention to how products actually perform over time. I started Locks N Chops in 2026 to share practical, first person opinions shaped by real use, comparison, and research.
I’m especially drawn to products that make routines simpler, last longer, and feel worth the money. Away from work, I enjoy cooking, basketball, family time, and the small satisfaction of finding something useful that quietly earns a permanent place comfortably in daily life.
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