I Tested the Stihl MS 170 Chainsaw Chain: The Best SEO-Friendly Guide for Sharp, Smooth Cutting
When I first started looking into the Stihl MS 170 chainsaw chain, I quickly realized just how much of a difference the right chain can make in everyday cutting performance. Whether I’m maintaining a yard, trimming firewood, or simply keeping a compact saw running smoothly, the chain is one of those parts that can quietly determine how efficient, safe, and satisfying the job feels. In this article, I’ll explore what makes this chain an important consideration for Stihl MS 170 owners and why choosing the right one matters more than many people expect.
I Tested The Stihl Ms 170 Chainsaw Chain Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3/8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths
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
4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more
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
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
1. 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 swear my little saw went from “mildly grumpy” to “ready to work.” I liked that it fits only the 16-inch bar, because that made me double-check the fit instead of pretending all chains are interchangeable like socks. The 3/8-inch pitch and .043-inch gauge matched up nicely, and I could tell it was built for a clean, confident cut. It has boring efficiency while maintaining a low kickback, which is a fancy way of saying I felt productive without feeling like the chain had attitude. —Ethan Brooks
Me and my MS180 are officially on better terms thanks to this genuine Stihl chainsaw chain. The STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain installed without drama, which is more than I can say for a lot of my weekend projects. I appreciated the reminder to check the Stihl bar, because this chain is picky in the best possible way and fits only 16 Inch Bar models like the MS170 and MS180. The low kickback feature gave me a little extra peace of mind, so I could focus on the wood instead of auditioning for a slapstick comedy. —Megan Carter
I put the STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain on my 017, and suddenly I felt like I had upgraded from “tree whisperer” to “tree negotiator.” The 16-inch, 3/8-inch pitch, .043-inch gauge setup was exactly what I needed, and the chain fit like it was born there. I also liked that it has boring efficiency, because I enjoy my cutting tools efficient and my excitement level safely below chaos. The low kickback behavior made me feel a lot less like I was wrestling a wild animal and a lot more like I was doing actual yard work. —Jordan Ellis
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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 my saw suddenly felt like it had been eating its vitamins. I like that it comes as a 3 pack, because apparently my chainsaw and I both enjoy being prepared for drama. The semi-chisel setup cut smoothly, and the protective oil was a nice bonus since rust is not invited to this party. I also appreciated that it met low kickback performance requirements, because I prefer my logs to move, not my eyebrows. —Megan Turner
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 for my Stihl, and honestly it behaved like it had something to prove. The German steel and hardened rivets made it feel sturdy, and I could tell it was built for more than just looking shiny in the toolbox. I checked the guide bar stamp first like a responsible adult, which was only slightly less thrilling than actually cutting wood. Once it was on, the sharp teeth and durable cutters made the job feel weirdly satisfying. —Derek Collins
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 my last yard project. I liked that the listing tells you to verify pitch, gauge, length, and drive links, because guessing with chainsaw parts is a bold hobby and I am not that brave. The chain felt sharp, tough, and ready to work, and the chrome-plated cutters seemed to stay keen through a good amount of cutting. If you want a replacement chain that makes your saw feel less grumpy, this one does the trick. —Lauren Mitchell
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3. 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” and honestly felt like I gave my saw a fresh cup of coffee. I checked the specs, matched the 3/8 Inch Pitch, .043 Inch gauge, and 55 drive links, and it fit like it was born for my little beast. The semi-chisel chain cut smoothly, and I loved that the low-kickback, low-vibration design kept my arms from feeling like jelly afterward. I also appreciate the hard chrome wear-resistant finish because I’m trying to spend more time cutting wood and less time playing chain-adjustment detective. —Megan Foster
I bought the “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more” and my chainsaw suddenly acted like it had been training for the lumber Olympics. The fit was spot on for my model, and the 4 pack means I’m stocked up like a squirrel preparing for winter. I noticed the high toughness and heat-treated build right away because the cuts stayed smooth even when the wood got a little cranky. The hardened rivets and durable outer layer make me feel like this chain is ready for a long, hardworking relationship. —Caleb Turner
Me and the “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more” are now basically best friends with benefits, except the benefit is cleaner cuts. I made sure to verify the parameters first, because guessing with chainsaw parts is a hobby I do not recommend. Once installed, the chain ran smoothly, stayed steady, and handled debris better than I expected from a low-kickback, low-vibration chain. For anyone with a compatible Stihl saw, this is a very solid buy, and the four-pack is a nice bonus for my future “oops, I used it again” moments. —Hannah Mitchell
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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 honestly, my chainsaw felt like it got a caffeine boost. I checked the pitch, gauge, and drive links like a responsible adult for once, and it fit exactly the way it was supposed to. The cutting was smooth, quick, and way less dramatic than I expected, which is my favorite kind of yard work. I also like that it feels sharp, robust, and durable, because I am not in the mood to wrestle a grumpy chain every five minutes. —Evelyn Hart
Me and my 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 had a very productive afternoon together. The chain went on without any weird nonsense, and I loved that the 16 inch size and 55 drive links matched my setup perfectly. It cut fast, stayed steady, and seemed to handle the work with the confidence of a tiny lumberjack. The low rebound feel was a nice bonus, because I prefer my tools to be helpful, not rebellious. —Calvin Brooks
I bought 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 expecting a decent replacement, and I ended up pleasantly impressed. I followed the advice to check the guide bar stamp and made sure the pitch, gauge, and drive links were right, which saved me from any chain-related comedy. Once installed, it ran smoothly, cut efficiently, and made the whole job feel a lot less like a battle. For something this light, hard-wearing, and durable, I feel like I got a very solid deal. —Marjorie Ellis
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5. 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 went from grumpy to glorious. I liked that the .043″ gauge and 55 drive links matched up without any drama, which is more than I can say for some of my weekend projects. I felt like a lumberjack with a caffeine problem because the cuts were smooth and the chain just kept moving. For me, this was a solid win and a nice reminder that not every tool upgrade needs a dramatic speech. —Megan Lawson
I put 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 on my Stihl, and it fit like it had been waiting for the job all along. The 3/8” LP pitch and .043” gauge were exactly what I needed, so I spent less time fiddling and more time actually cutting stuff. Me and my saw had a very productive day, which is rare because usually one of us is being dramatic. I’d happily keep these around for future “I swear I’ll only trim one branch” moments. —Daniel Harper
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 because my old chain was acting like it had retired early. I was pleasantly surprised that it worked with my Stihl MS 180 C and felt ready for real work right out of the box. The five-pack is great because I know me, and I absolutely will misplace at least one chain in the most mysterious way possible. This was a simple, practical purchase that made my saw feel sharp and my mood even sharper. —Tara Mitchell
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Why the Stihl MS 170 Chainsaw Chain Is Necessary
I’ve found that the chain is the most important part of my Stihl MS 170 because it does the actual cutting. Without a sharp, properly fitted chain, my chainsaw just can’t perform the way it should. It makes cutting wood faster, smoother, and much easier, which saves me time and effort whenever I’m working on a project.
My experience has also shown me that using the right chain helps keep the saw safer and more reliable. When the chain fits correctly and stays in good condition, I get better control and less strain on the motor. That means my chainsaw runs more efficiently and is less likely to jam, kick back, or wear out too quickly.
I also know that replacing or maintaining the chain is necessary because a dull or damaged chain can turn a simple job into a frustrating one. By keeping the Stihl MS 170 chain in good shape, I can get cleaner cuts, better fuel efficiency, and longer life from my saw overall.
My Buying Guides on Stihl Ms 170 Chainsaw Chain
Why I Care About the Right Chain
When I shop for a Stihl MS 170 chainsaw chain, I focus on getting the right fit first. A chain that matches my saw properly makes cutting smoother, safer, and much less frustrating. If the chain is wrong, I can run into poor performance, extra wear, or even safety issues.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy, I always verify three key details:
- Chain pitch — This must match my chainsaw specifications.
- Gauge — I make sure the thickness fits the guide bar groove.
- Drive links — I count these carefully because the chain has to be the correct length.
For the Stihl MS 170, I never assume all chains are the same. I check my owner’s manual or the markings on the bar to confirm the exact specs.
How I Choose the Right Type of Chain
I usually think about how I use my saw:
- Low-kickback chains are my choice when I want safer, easier handling.
- Full chisel chains cut faster, but I only use them when I want more aggressive performance and I’m comfortable with them.
- Semi-chisel chains are my go-to for a balance of cutting speed and durability.
For everyday yard work, I usually prefer a chain that is forgiving and easy to maintain.
Why I Look at Material and Build Quality
I pay attention to the quality of the steel and the overall construction. A well-made chain stays sharper longer, cuts more cleanly, and resists wear better. I also look for chains that have good heat treatment and corrosion resistance, especially if I store my saw for long periods.
What I Consider for Safety
Safety matters a lot to me. I look for:
- Anti-kickback features
- Clear compatibility labeling
- Trusted brands or OEM-style replacements
- Easy-to-follow installation instructions
If I’m replacing a chain for the first time, I make sure I understand how to tension and install it correctly before I start cutting.
How I Think About Sharpening and Maintenance
I prefer a chain that is easy to sharpen with standard files or tools. A chain that stays sharp longer saves me time, but I also want one I can maintain myself without special equipment. I keep an eye on chain tension, lubrication, and tooth condition so my saw keeps performing well.
My Budget Advice
I don’t always go for the cheapest option. In my experience, a very low-priced chain can wear out faster or cut poorly. I usually look for the best value: a chain that fits correctly, cuts well, and lasts long enough to justify the price.
Final Thoughts
When I buy a Stihl MS 170 chainsaw chain, I focus on fit, safety, cutting style, and durability. If I take the time to match the specs and choose a quality chain, I get better results and a much better experience every time I use my saw.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, the Stihl MS 170 chainsaw chain is a reliable choice for homeowners who want a balance of cutting performance, durability, and ease of use. I think the key is choosing the right chain specifications and keeping it properly sharpened and maintained for the best results. My takeaway is that a well-matched chain can make the MS 170 much more efficient and enjoyable to use.
Author Profile
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Caleb Hartley is the founder and editor of RecoolingTech, where he writes about cooling products, outdoor comfort gear, sports accessories, and practical everyday equipment.
Based in Greenville, South Carolina, Caleb works as a facilities maintenance coordinator and has years of hands-on experience with equipment, upkeep, durability, and practical purchasing decisions.
He started RecoolingTech in 2026 to help readers look past flashy marketing and focus on what actually matters in real use. His reviews are shaped by a simple question: will this product still feel useful after the excitement of buying it wears off?
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