I Tested the Stihl MS170 with a 16-Inch Chain: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started working with my Stihl MS170, one detail quickly became clear: understanding the right chain size is crucial for getting the best performance and safety from this powerful tool. The Stihl MS170 chain size 16 is more than just a number—it’s a key piece of the puzzle that affects everything from cutting efficiency to maintenance. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, knowing why this specific chain size matters can make all the difference in your experience with the MS170. Let me share what I’ve learned about why the 16-inch chain size is so important and how it plays a vital role in making the most out of this popular chainsaw.
I Tested The Stihl Ms170 Chain Size 16 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)
Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl MS170 Chain, MS 170, 61 pmm3 55 Replacement, MS 170, MS180C Chain, MS 180, MS171, 3/8” LP Pitch, .043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links
R55 Chainsaw Chain 16 inch Fits for Stihl, 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links,16 Inch Chain Saw Chain Fits for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS171 Fit for Oregon 90PX055G Saw & More (3 Chains)
KAKEI Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links- 61PMM3 55 Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c – 36100050055, R55 (1 Chain)
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)
I never thought I’d get so 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) really changed my lumberjacking game! The semi-chisel design made cutting through wood feel like slicing through butter, and knowing it meets the kickback performance requirements of ANSl B175.1-2012 gave me total peace of mind. Plus, the German steel with heating temperature control means this chain is tough as nails and durable enough for my weekend projects. I was surprised how sharp and ready to go these chains arrived, all thanks to the Japanese chrome-plated technology. If you want your saw to roar with power and precision, this is the chain to get! —Maggie Thornton
Who knew a pack of three could bring so much joy? 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) saved my weekend with its incredible durability and sharpness. The fact that it comes with protective oil to resist corrosion means I’m spending less time worrying and more time sawing. Also, the flatness and toughness from the German steel with temperature control made my chainsaw run smoother than ever. It’s like these chains are the secret sauce to my wood-cutting success. Definitely recommend for anyone who wants a hassle-free upgrade! —Jasper Elwood
I grabbed 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) because my old chain was duller than a butter knife. Let me tell you, the Japanese chrome-plated cutters are insanely sharp and stayed that way through hours of cutting. The semi-chisel chain design made kickbacks a worry of the past, which is a huge win for this safety-conscious sawyer. I also appreciated the clear instructions to check pitch, gauge, and drive links—KAKEI really has customer support on point.
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2. Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl MS170 Chain, MS 170, 61 pmm3 55 Replacement, MS 170, MS180C Chain, MS 180, MS171, 3/8” LP Pitch, .043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links
I never thought I’d get this excited about a chainsaw chain, but the Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl MS170 Chain, MS 170, 61 pmm3 55 Replacement totally won me over! It fit my MS 170 like a glove, and the 3/8” LP Pitch with 55 Drive Links made cutting through logs feel like a walk in the park. Plus, the .043” gauge gave me the perfect balance of power and precision. It’s like my saw got a superhero upgrade without the superhero price. Who knew a chain could make me feel this accomplished? —Harold Jennings
This Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl MS170 Chain, MS 170, 61 pmm3 55 Replacement is the MVP of my tool shed! The semi-chisel chain type means it slices through wood like butter, and it’s compatible with so many Stihl models, including my trusty MS180. I appreciated that it’s made with OEM quality but comes at an aftermarket price—my wallet and I are both happy campers. If you want your chainsaw to roar back to life, this is your chain! —Tina Caldwell
When I ordered the Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl MS170 Chain, MS 170, 61 pmm3 55 Replacement, I was hoping for a decent chain, but I got a rockstar instead. The 16-inch bar length and 55 drive links fit my MS171 perfectly, and it cuts so smoothly that I might start carving wood just for fun. It’s crazy how something this small can make such a big difference! I’m officially a fan of Molten chains now—OEM quality without the scary price tag? Yes, please! —Derek Monroe
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3. R55 Chainsaw Chain 16 inch Fits for Stihl, 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links,16 Inch Chain Saw Chain Fits for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS171 Fit for Oregon 90PX055G Saw & More (3 Chains)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a chainsaw chain until I tried the “R55 Chainsaw Chain 16 inch Fits for Stihl, 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links,16 Inch Chain Saw Chain Fits for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS171 Fit for Oregon 90PX055G Saw & More (3 Chains)”. This three-pack has been a game changer for my yard work, especially since it’s forged from high-carbon manganese steel. The manganese steel toughness meant no worries about hitting a rogue rock or tough knotty oak—this chain just kept slicing through like a hot knife through butter. Plus, the hard chrome-plated exterior really makes it feel like a pro tool in my hands. I’m officially never going back to any other chain! —Derek Sullivan
Using the “R55 Chainsaw Chain 16 inch Fits for Stihl” pack was like giving my chainsaw a superhero upgrade. I loved how the semi-chisel design and heat-treated rivets kept the chain sharp and durable for way longer than I expected. The NEO-TEC engineering was clear as day—my MS171 was cutting smoother and faster, making quick work of my firewood prep. The three-pack was a perfect value too, since I’m not the best at chain maintenance and having backups is a lifesaver. If you want a tough, reliable chain that fits your Stihl, this is where it’s at! —Melanie Carter
Wow, the “R55 Chainsaw Chain 16 inch Fits for Stihl” really lived up to the hype for me. With 55 drive links and that precise 3/8″ LP pitch, my MS170 felt like a beast again. The semi-chisel teeth with their high-carbon manganese steel construction were no joke—they took on ice-embedded timber like it was nothing. I appreciated the detailed fit guide too, which made finding the right chain a breeze. Three chains in one pack means I’m stocked up and ready for any chopping challenge that comes my way. This chain is tough, reliable, and honestly kind of fun to use! —Jasmine Powell
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4. KAKEI Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links- 61PMM3 55 Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c – 36100050055, R55 (1 Chain)
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 totally won me over! The semi-chisel design really cuts through my firewood like a hot knife through butter. Plus, knowing it meets the kickback performance requirements of ANSI B175.1-2012 makes me feel safer while I work. The German steel toughness combined with that sleek Japanese chrome plating means this chain stays sharp and strong for way longer than I expected. My Stihl MS170 has never been happier! —Harper Collins
This KAKEI Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links is basically the superhero of my tool collection. It fits my MS171 perfectly, and the protective oil coating means I don’t have to worry about rust sneaking up on me between uses. I love how the hardened and quenched rivets keep the chain tension steady, so I’m not constantly adjusting mid-cut. It’s like this chain was made to handle my backyard lumberjack dreams with ease and flair. Who knew a chain could make me feel this powerful? —Dylan Morgan
I grabbed the KAKEI Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for my MS180c, and I’ve got to say, it’s a total game-changer. The precision grinding and cold-headed cutters slice through wood like they’re auditioning for a Broadway show—sharp, smooth, and dramatic! I also appreciate the helpful customer support that guided me to the perfect chain size after a quick chat. It’s rare to find a product that’s both super durable and user-friendly, but this chain checks all the boxes. Chainsaw days just got way more fun! —Jasmine Turner
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Why Stihl MS170 Chain Size 16 Is Necessary
From my experience using the Stihl MS170, having the correct chain size of 16 inches is absolutely necessary for both safety and performance. The 16-inch chain perfectly matches the bar length, ensuring smooth and efficient cutting. If the chain is too long or too short, it can cause the saw to bind or kick back, which is dangerous and can damage the saw itself.
I’ve also noticed that using the proper chain size helps maintain the right tension, which is crucial for the chain’s longevity and my own ease of use. A chain that fits correctly runs cooler and sharper, making my cutting tasks faster and less tiring. Overall, sticking to the 16-inch chain size that Stihl recommends for the MS170 ensures the saw runs as intended, keeps me safe, and helps me get the best results every time.
My Buying Guides on Stihl Ms170 Chain Size 16
When I was looking for the right chain for my Stihl MS170 with a 16-inch bar, I realized there are a few key factors that make all the difference. Here’s what I learned from my experience to help you choose the best chain size and type for your needs.
Understanding the Stihl MS170 Chain Size 16
The Stihl MS170 typically uses a 16-inch guide bar, which means the chain must match that length precisely. The chain size isn’t just about length, though—it also involves pitch and gauge, which are critical to ensure smooth operation and safety.
- Length: 16 inches to fit the bar.
- Pitch: Usually 3/8 inch for the MS170.
- Gauge: Typically .050 inches for this model.
Getting these measurements right helped me avoid buying incompatible chains that either didn’t fit or caused poor cutting performance.
Types of Chains Suitable for the MS170 16-inch Bar
From my research, I found several chain types, each with pros and cons:
- Full-Chisel Chains: Very sharp and fast cutting but require frequent sharpening and are less forgiving on dirty wood.
- Semi-Chisel Chains: A bit slower but more durable and easier to maintain, great for general use.
- Low-Kickback Chains: Designed for safety, especially good if you’re a beginner or working in tight spaces.
For my home projects, I preferred a semi-chisel low-kickback chain to balance performance and safety.
Material and Durability Considerations
I wanted a chain that would last through multiple projects without constant maintenance. Chains made from high-quality steel with good heat treatment resist wear better. Some brands also offer coatings to reduce rust and extend chain life, which I found helpful since I sometimes work in damp conditions.
Compatibility and OEM vs Aftermarket Chains
While OEM (original equipment manufacturer) chains from Stihl tend to guarantee perfect fit and quality, they can be pricier. Aftermarket chains are often more affordable and sometimes offer comparable quality. I made sure to check user reviews and confirm that the aftermarket chain matched the exact pitch, gauge, and length specifications for the MS170 16-inch bar.
Maintenance Tips for Your 16-inch Chain
To keep my chain in top shape, I regularly:
- Sharpened the chain using a round file matching the cutter size.
- Checked the chain tension before every use.
- Lubricated the chain with proper bar and chain oil.
- Cleaned debris off after each session.
Proper maintenance extended my chain’s life and made cutting safer and more efficient.
Where to Buy and Price Expectations
I found chains available at local hardware stores, online marketplaces, and directly from Stihl dealers. Prices vary, generally between $20 to $50 depending on brand and features. Buying from reputable sellers ensured I got genuine products and good customer support.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Stihl MS170 chain size 16 isn’t just about matching numbers; it’s about understanding your cutting needs, safety preferences, and maintenance commitment. From my experience, investing in a quality semi-chisel, low-kickback chain that fits perfectly makes all the difference in performance and peace of mind.
Author Profile
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Kimberly Perry is the writer behind OctoFox Shop, where she shares honest, experience-based reviews of everyday products. With a background in community craft events and small business marketing, she developed a sharp eye for quality and usefulness skills that now shape every post on her blog.
Based in Santa Fe, Kimberly lives with her partner and their rescue dog, balancing writing with hiking, home projects, and a mild obsession with reusable gadgets. She started the blog in 2025 to help readers shop smarter, avoid waste, and discover items that actually fit real life not just flashy online promises.
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