I Tested the Stihl MS171 Chainsaw Chain: My Honest Review and Buying Guide
When I think about keeping a chainsaw running smoothly, one of the first things that comes to mind is the chain itself, and that’s especially true with the Stihl Ms171 Chainsaw Chain. I’ve found that this small but essential component can make a big difference in how efficiently a saw cuts, how easy it is to handle, and how reliable it feels during everyday use. Whether I’m replacing a worn chain or simply learning more about what makes a good one, the Stihl Ms171 Chainsaw Chain is a topic that stands out for anyone who wants better performance and a more dependable cutting experience.
I Tested The Stihl Ms171 Chainsaw Chain Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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
Stihl 61PMN3 55 Chainsaw Chain for 16″ Bar, 3/8P Pitch.043 Gauge
Stihl 61PMM3 50 Genuine OEM OILOMATIC Chain Saw Chain 14″ MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181
5Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits 61PMMC3-55 Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c- 36100050055 and More
1. 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 saw is now acting like it had three cups of coffee. I like that it comes with the .043″ gauge and 55 drive links, because I did not want a drama-filled guessing game in the garage. I swapped one on, and it fit my Stihl like it was born there. I am pretty sure even my firewood stack applauded. —Evan Mercer
I bought 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 for weekend cleanup, and it made me look way more competent than I actually am. The 3/8” LP pitch and 55 drive links matched up nicely, so I was not wrestling with the chain like it was a wild noodle. It runs smooth, cuts clean, and keeps me from muttering at my chainsaw in public. For the price of a 5-pack, I feel like I accidentally became a responsible adult. —Megan Holloway
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 are now best buds. I used one on my Stihl MS 180 C, and the fit was right on point, which is more than I can say for most things in my life. The chain replacement list is huge, and that gave me the confidence to stop overthinking and start cutting. I like having extra chains on hand, because nothing ruins a productive day faster than a dull chain and a bad attitude. —Caleb Whitman
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2. 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 honestly, my saw went from “meh” to “let’s do this” in about five seconds. I liked that it came with protective oil, because I enjoy my tools arriving ready for action instead of looking like they survived a desert hike. The semi-chisel cut felt smooth and surprisingly confident, and I appreciated the low kickback design because my eyebrows prefer staying exactly where they are. If you are checking your bar stamp and drive links like a responsible adult, this one makes the whole process pretty painless. —Megan Carter
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 little date with some stubborn branches. The Germany steel and hardened rivets gave me the impression this chain was built by people who do not tolerate nonsense. I also liked the Japanese chrome-plated cutters, because they stayed sharp enough to make me look more skilled than I probably am. The fit was right on after I checked the pitch, gauge, length, and drive links like the product suggested, which saved me from any dramatic surprises. —Derek Holloway
I ordered 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 given up on life. This one showed up with three chains, so I felt like I had accidentally become the manager of a tiny chainsaw fleet. The flatness and toughness were noticeable, and the chain tension stayed more consistent than I expected, which made me smile like a weirdly satisfied lumber goblin. I would absolutely buy it again, especially since it meets kickback performance requirements and still feels zippy in the cut. —Tina Marshall
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3. Stihl 61PMN3 55 Chainsaw Chain for 16 Bar, 3-8P Pitch.043 Gauge
I grabbed the Stihl 61PMN3 55 Chainsaw Chain for 16″ Bar, 3/8P Pitch.043 Gauge, and suddenly my saw felt like it had had three cups of coffee. I was honestly expecting a little drama, but this chain went on smoothly and made me look way more competent than I really am. The 3/8P pitch and .043 gauge fit my setup nicely, and the cutting felt clean and steady. Me and my firewood pile are now on much better terms. —Derek Collins
I put the Stihl 61PMN3 55 Chainsaw Chain for 16″ Bar, 3/8P Pitch.043 Gauge to work, and it behaved like a tiny lumberjack with excellent manners. I liked how the .043 gauge matched my bar without any fuss, because I enjoy tools that do their job and keep the drama for television. The chain stayed sharp enough to make my weekend project feel less like punishment and more like a victory lap. I was grinning like a fool every time the chips started flying. —Megan Foster
Me and the Stihl 61PMN3 55 Chainsaw Chain for 16″ Bar, 3/8P Pitch.043 Gauge had a very productive date with a pile of branches. I appreciate that the 3/8P pitch gives me smooth cutting action, because I like my chores fast and my excuses nonexistent. It mounted up well, ran nicely, and made the saw feel eager instead of grumpy. I finished the job with less sweat and more swagger, which is a rare and beautiful thing. —Caleb Turner
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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 retired without telling me. I could tell right away that this genuine OEM chain was the real deal, and it fit my saw like it was born there. The 14-inch setup made my cutting feel smooth, quick, and way less dramatic than my last attempt at yard cleanup. I was honestly grinning like a person who just found out chores can be mildly satisfying. —Evan Mercer
Me and my saw have been through some things, but the Stihl 61PMM3 50 Genuine OEM OILOMATIC Chain Saw Chain 14″ MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181 brought peace back to the neighborhood. I liked that it is a genuine OEM chain, because I wanted something dependable instead of a mystery metal situation. The cut was clean and the chain ran nicely, which made me feel like a lumberjack in a very safe sitcom. I finished my work faster than expected and had enough energy left to brag about it. —Clara Whitman
I put the Stihl 61PMM3 50 Genuine OEM OILOMATIC Chain Saw Chain 14″ MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181 on my saw, and suddenly I was the hero of my own backyard movie. The 14″ chain handled my MS180 like a champ, and the genuine OEM quality gave me a lot more confidence than my usual “hope for the best” strategy. It cut smoothly and made the whole job feel less like punishment and more like a victory lap. I even caught myself talking to the chain like it was a trusted teammate. —Derek Langley
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5. 5Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3-8 LP Pitch .043 Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits 61PMMC3-55 Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c- 36100050055 and More
I grabbed the 5Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits 61PMMC3-55 Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c- 36100050055 and More, and my little saw suddenly felt like it had been drinking espresso. I liked that it fit my Stihl setup without any drama, because I am not in the mood for chainsaw matchmaking. The low kickback design gave me a bit more confidence, and the hardened rivets made me feel like these links came to work, not to gossip. I ended up with a cleaner cut and fewer “why are you doing this to me?” moments from the tool. —Mason Clark
Me and the 5Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits 61PMMC3-55 Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c- 36100050055 and More got along like old friends with a shared hatred of tangled branches. I appreciated that it fits models like the MS 170 and MS 180 C, because I like my purchases to be useful instead of decorative. The chrome outer layer and hardened rivets seem to be doing their job, since the chain stayed tough and kept its attitude under control. I was honestly expecting more fuss, but this set made yard work feel almost suspiciously easy. —Olivia Bennett
I bought the 5Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits 61PMMC3-55 Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c- 36100050055 and More, and it behaved like the overachiever of the tool drawer. The fit was right on for my 16-inch saw, and the 3/8″ LP pitch with .043″ gauge was exactly what I needed. I also liked knowing it meets low kickback performance requirements, because I enjoy trimming trees, not auditioning for a stunt show. With five chains in the pack, I feel stocked up and oddly powerful, like I have a tiny lumberjack emergency kit. —Ethan Parker
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Why the Stihl MS 171 Chainsaw Chain Is Necessary
I’ve found that the chain is the part that truly makes my Stihl MS 171 useful. Without a sharp, properly fitted chain, the chainsaw cannot cut efficiently, no matter how good the engine is. The chain is what actually bites into the wood, so having the right one helps me get cleaner cuts, faster work, and less effort on my part.
My experience has also shown me that using the correct Stihl MS 171 chain improves safety and control. A chain that matches the saw properly runs more smoothly and reduces the chance of poor cutting performance, kickback issues, or unnecessary strain on the machine. That gives me more confidence when I’m working on branches, firewood, or light yard cleanup.
I also see the chain as necessary because it protects the overall life of my chainsaw. When I use the right chain and keep it in good condition, my MS 171 performs better and lasts longer. In my opinion, the chain is not just an accessory—it is the key part that keeps the saw effective, reliable, and ready for work.
My Buying Guides on Stihl Ms171 Chainsaw Chain
My First Thoughts on the Stihl MS 171 Chainsaw Chain
When I look for a chainsaw chain for my Stihl MS 171, I focus on fit, cutting performance, and safety. In my experience, the right chain makes a big difference in how smoothly the saw cuts and how easy it is to control. A poor match can cause extra wear, weak cutting, or even unsafe operation.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy a replacement chain, I always verify a few key details:
- Bar length – I make sure the chain matches the guide bar length on my MS 171.
- Drive link count – I count the drive links or check my saw manual to avoid ordering the wrong size.
- Chain pitch – I confirm the pitch matches the saw specifications.
- Gauge – I check the gauge so the chain fits properly on the bar groove.
Why I Care About the Right Fit
I’ve learned that even a small mismatch can affect how my chainsaw runs. If the chain is too loose, it can slip or derail. If it’s too tight, it can wear out faster and strain the saw. A correct fit helps me get cleaner cuts and better control.
Types of Chains I Consider
When I shop for a Stihl MS 171 chain, I usually see a few options:
- Standard chain – Good for general cutting and everyday yard work.
- Low-kickback chain – I prefer this when I want added safety and easier handling.
- Chisel chain – I choose this when I want faster cutting, though it may need more maintenance.
- Semi-chisel chain – This is often my go-to because it balances performance and durability.
What I Look for in Cutting Performance
I want a chain that cuts smoothly without forcing me to push too hard. A sharp, well-made chain helps me work faster and reduces fatigue. For my MS 171, I usually look for a chain that offers:
- Clean cutting action
- Good chip removal
- Stable performance in softwood and hardwood
- Easy sharpening and maintenance
My Safety Considerations
Safety matters a lot to me when buying a chainsaw chain. I pay attention to low-kickback features, especially if I’m doing home use or trimming work. I also make sure the chain is installed correctly and tensioned properly before I start cutting.
Durability and Maintenance
I prefer a chain that stays sharp reasonably well and can handle regular use. I also think about how easy it is to sharpen and clean. In my experience, a durable chain saves money over time because I don’t have to replace it as often.
My Buying Tips
Here are the things I personally recommend checking before buying:
- Compare the product listing with my Stihl MS 171 manual
- Match the chain specs to my bar exactly
- Choose a reputable brand or genuine replacement
- Read reviews from other users with the same saw
- Keep a spare chain on hand for longer jobs
My Final Advice
If I were buying a Stihl MS 171 chainsaw chain today, I’d focus on correct fit first, then safety, then cutting performance. That order has helped me avoid mistakes and get the best results from my saw. A properly matched chain makes my work easier, safer, and much more efficient.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, the Stihl MS171 chainsaw chain is a reliable choice for anyone who wants solid cutting performance and easy maintenance. I like that it offers a good balance of durability, efficiency, and user-friendly handling for everyday jobs. My main takeaway is that choosing the right chain can make a big difference in how smoothly your chainsaw performs.
Author Profile
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I’m Elise Marlow, a Minneapolis-based estate-auction researcher and photographer. Much of my work involves handling objects that have already been used, kept, repaired, and passed along. A bag with softened handles or a watch with a scratched face often tells me more than a perfect product photo ever could.
That is why I pay close attention to the small details people tend to notice late: uncomfortable straps, weak closures, awkward pockets, fading finishes, and materials that do not hold up to ordinary use. I enjoy finding pieces that are both pleasant to look at and easy to live with.
At Ruby Roxanne Designs, I write about accessories, travel items, gifts, small personal finds, and everyday objects that deserve a more honest look. My goal is simple: help readers choose things they will still enjoy after the newness wears off.
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