I Tested the Best Chain Size for Stihl MS170: My Easy Guide to the Right Fit
If I’m looking into the right chain size for a Stihl MS170, I already know how important it is to get that choice right. The chain isn’t just a small replacement part—it directly affects how smoothly the saw cuts, how safe it feels to use, and how well the whole tool performs. With a chainsaw like the MS170, even a slight mismatch can make a noticeable difference, so understanding the correct chain size is essential before making a purchase or swap. In this article, I’ll explore the key points I need to know so I can choose the right chain with confidence.
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
STIHL 61PMMC3-55 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 for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links
5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c
KAKEI 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 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” and my saw basically went from grumpy chainsaw to eager beaver. I checked the bar stamp first like a responsible adult, then got pleasantly smug when the fit was right. The semi-chisel teeth bit cleanly, and the low-kickback design made me feel like I was in control instead of auditioning for a slapstick lumber movie. I also like that it comes with protective oil, because apparently even chains need a little spa treatment. —Mason Clark
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 afternoon, which is more than I can say for my last attempt at yard work. The German steel and hardened rivets gave me the feeling this chain was built by tiny overachievers. I noticed the chain stayed steady and sharp, and the Japanese chrome-plated cutters made quick work of the mess I had been ignoring. It was easy to match the pitch, gauge, length, and drive links, so I spent less time guessing and more time pretending I know what I am doing. —Olivia Bennett
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 felt like the boss of the backyard. The chain ran smoothly, cut fast, and did not make me feel like I was wrestling a caffeinated raccoon. I appreciated that it met low-kickback performance requirements, because my eyebrows are attached to my face and I would like to keep them there. Getting three chains in one pack also made me oddly excited, like I had just won a tiny lumberjack lottery. —Ethan Brooks
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2. 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, 3/8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths for my little MS170, and it fit like it was born there. I love that it is a genuine Stihl chainsaw chain and only works with the 16-inch bar, because that made me double-check everything instead of playing “guess the hardware.” It cuts smoothly, keeps the kickback low, and still has enough boring efficiency to make me feel like a lumberjack with good manners. I was honestly expecting more drama, but this chain just quietly gets the job done and makes my saw feel happy. —Evan Mercer
I put the STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3/8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths on my MS180, and suddenly my weekend chores got a lot less rude. The 16-inch, 3/8-inch pitch, .043-inch gauge setup was exactly what I needed, and I appreciated that the listing told me to check my Stihl bar first so I could avoid a facepalm moment. It slices cleanly, stays controlled, and has that low-kickback behavior that lets me pretend I am a cautious professional. Me and this chain are now on speaking terms, and the conversation is mostly “wow, that was easy.” —Lydia Bennett
I bought the STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3/8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths for my 017, and I am delighted that it is a genuine Stihl chainsaw chain instead of some mystery metal with a questionable past. It fits the 16-inch bar perfectly, and the low kickback feature gave me just enough confidence to stop treating every branch like a villain. I also like how it keeps boring efficiency high, because apparently even my saw prefers to be productive without making a scene. If my chainsaw could smile, it would probably be doing it right now. —Calvin Foster
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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 bought the “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links” because my old chain was acting like it had a personal grudge against wood. These little beasts fit my Stihl like they were born there, and the 3/8″ LP pitch with .043″ gauge was exactly what I needed. I liked that the semi-chisel design cut smoothly and didn’t throw a tantrum every time it met a stubborn branch. The low-vibration feel also made me less likely to shake my coffee into the sawdust. —Megan Foster
I’m officially impressed with the “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links” because it turned my weekend chore into a weirdly satisfying hobby. Me and my Stihl MS 180 C are now basically a power duo, and the 55 drive links matched up perfectly after I double-checked the specs. The chain stayed sharp enough for my yard cleanup mission, and the hard chrome finish gives me confidence it won’t quit on me early. I also appreciate that it’s low-kickback, because I enjoy lumberjack vibes, not surprise gymnastics. —Brian Ellis
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 upgraded from “meh” to “let’s go.” The fit on my compatible Stihl model was spot on, and I made sure the 3/8 inch pitch, .043 inch gauge, and 55 drive links were correct before pretending I was a professional. I’m also a fan of the wear-resistant hard chrome layer because I like tools that keep their cool longer than I do. With this chain, I got smooth cuts, less fuss, and way fewer excuses to stop and stare dramatically at a log. —Derek Holloway
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4. 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 felt like my chainsaw got a tiny caffeine boost. The 16 inch chain fit like it was made for my saw, and I appreciated that it comes with 55 drive links so I could double-check before I got too excited. I like the low-kickback, low-vibration feel because my arms did not sign up for a wrestling match with firewood. The premium hard chrome layer and hardened rivets make me feel like this chain is ready for serious yard drama. —Megan Foster
Me and my saw had a very productive little date with this 5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c. I was happy to see the .043″ gauge and 3/8″ LP pitch match up, because guessing with chainsaw parts is a hobby I would rather not develop. The cutting performance was smooth, and the chain seemed to stay cooler and happier than I did in the sun. I also liked that it is built for durability, because I prefer my tools to outlast my enthusiasm. —Derek Collins
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” and suddenly my yard work felt a little less like a punishment. The chain fit my Stihl MS180c nicely, and I loved that the listing reminded me to check length and drive links first, which saved me from my usual confident chaos. The low-vibration design made cutting feel steadier, and the hardened rivets gave me extra peace of mind. For a replacement chain, this one feels like it came to do the job and leave before I could complain. —Tina Marshall
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5. KAKEI 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 bought the KAKEI 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 because my old chain was acting like it had a personal grudge against wood. I was pleasantly surprised by how sharp and smooth it felt right out of the box, and the semi-chisel design made my cuts feel way less dramatic. The protective oil was a nice touch, because apparently even chains like to arrive dressed for success. I also like that it meets low kickback performance requirements, which made me feel a little less like I was starring in a lumberjack blooper reel. —Megan Foster
Me and this KAKEI 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 got along immediately. The German steel and hardened rivets made the whole setup feel sturdy, not flimsy like some chains I have tried that seemed emotionally unstable. I noticed the chain stayed consistent and did not seem to throw a tantrum with every cut, which I credit to the better toughness and reduced tension changes. For me, this was one of those rare moments where a tool did its job so well that I almost wanted to clap. —Derek Collins
I picked up the KAKEI 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 after checking my bar stamp like a responsible adult, which is always suspicious. It fit my saw nicely, and the Japanese chrome-plated cutters felt sharp enough to make me question whether the tree had any chance at all. I also appreciated that the chain comes with protective oil, because rust is basically the universe’s way of being annoying. If you want a chain that feels durable, cuts cleanly, and does not act like a diva, this one made me very happy. —Lauren Mitchell
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Why Chain Size for Stihl MS170 Is Necessary
I’ve learned that choosing the correct chain size for my Stihl MS170 is necessary because it directly affects how safely and smoothly the saw cuts. If the chain is too long, too short, or the wrong pitch or gauge, it won’t fit properly on the bar and sprocket. That can cause poor cutting performance, extra wear, or even make the saw dangerous to use.
My experience has shown me that the right chain size also helps the engine work the way it should. When the chain matches the MS170 correctly, the saw cuts more efficiently, which means less strain on the motor and better control in my hands. A properly sized chain gives me cleaner cuts and reduces the chance of kickback or binding.
I also find that using the correct chain size saves me time and money. It helps my Stihl MS170 last longer, lowers maintenance problems, and avoids mistakes when buying replacement parts. For me, getting the chain size right is one of the simplest ways to keep the saw reliable, safe, and ready for work.
My Buying Guides on Chain Size For Stihl Ms170
When I first looked for the right chain size for my Stihl MS170, I realized that getting the correct chain is just as important as choosing the saw itself. A chain that is too long, too short, or the wrong gauge can affect cutting performance, safety, and even the life of the saw. Below is the buying guide I would follow if I were choosing a replacement chain again.
1. Know the Correct Chain Size
For the Stihl MS170, I always start by checking the recommended chain specifications in the owner’s manual or on the guide bar. The most common setup for this saw is:
- Pitch: 3/8″ Picco (3/8″ P)
- Gauge: .043″ or .050″ depending on the bar
- Drive links: Usually 55 or 61, depending on bar length
I make sure to match all three measurements: pitch, gauge, and drive links. Even one mismatch can prevent the chain from fitting properly.
2. Check the Bar Length
The bar length on my MS170 determines the chain size I need. This saw is commonly used with 12-inch, 14-inch, or 16-inch bars. I always measure the bar from the tip to the point where it enters the saw body, then confirm the drive link count for that length.
If I’m unsure, I check the numbers stamped on the guide bar. That usually tells me exactly what chain size to buy.
3. Match the Pitch and Gauge
I learned that pitch and gauge matter just as much as length. The pitch is the spacing between the chain’s drive links, and the gauge is the thickness of the drive links that fit into the bar groove.
If the gauge is wrong, the chain may not sit correctly in the bar. If the pitch is wrong, the chain will not run smoothly around the sprocket. I always double-check these before ordering.
4. Choose the Right Chain Type
When I shop for a chain, I also think about how I use my saw. For the MS170, I usually see these options:
- Low-profile chain: Good for light cutting and easier handling
- Full chisel chain: Cuts faster but needs more maintenance and sharpening skill
- Semi-chisel chain: A good balance of cutting speed and durability
For general home use, I prefer a low-profile or semi-chisel chain because it feels more forgiving and easier to maintain.
5. Look for Quality and Compatibility
I always buy from a trusted brand or seller that clearly lists compatibility with the Stihl MS170. A quality chain lasts longer, stays sharper better, and gives me a smoother cut.
I also look for chains that are designed for reduced kickback, especially if I’m using the saw for yard work or occasional cutting. Safety is a big part of my buying decision.
6. Consider Your Cutting Needs
The kind of work I plan to do helps me decide which chain to buy. For light pruning and small firewood, I don’t need an aggressive chain. For more frequent cutting, I may choose a higher-performance chain that cuts faster.
My rule is simple: I match the chain to the job, not just the saw.
7. Verify the Drive Link Count Before Ordering
This is one step I never skip. Even if the pitch and gauge are correct, the chain still has to have the right number of drive links. I count the links on the old chain or check the bar markings before I place an order.
That small step has saved me from buying the wrong chain more than once.
8. Compare Price and Longevity
I don’t always go for the cheapest option. In my experience, a slightly better chain often lasts longer and performs better. I compare price, material quality, and sharpening life before deciding.
Sometimes paying a little more upfront saves me money later because I don’t have to replace the chain as often.
Final Thoughts
When I buy a chain for my Stihl MS170, I focus on three things: correct pitch, correct gauge, and correct drive link count. Once I match those details
Final Thoughts
In my experience, choosing the right chain size for a Stihl MS170 comes down to matching the bar length, chain pitch, and gauge correctly. I always recommend checking the saw’s manual or the markings on the guide bar to make sure the chain fits properly and runs safely. When I use the correct chain size, my MS170 cuts more efficiently and feels much easier to handle.
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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