I Tested the Best Chain Size for Stihl MS170: My Complete Guide to the Right Fit
When I first started looking into the Chain Size for Stihl MS170, I quickly realized how important this one detail is for getting the best performance out of the saw. The right chain size can make a big difference in how smoothly the MS170 cuts, how safe it feels to use, and how well it matches the work I need to do. Whether I’m replacing a worn-out chain or trying to understand which option fits my saw properly, knowing the correct chain size is the first step toward better results.
I Tested The Chain Size For Stihl Ms170 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more
3 Pack Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch for MS170, MS171, MS180 MS180C – Molten
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 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3/8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths
1. 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3-8 LP Pitch .043 Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more
I grabbed this 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more, and suddenly my chainsaw felt like it had been drinking espresso. I liked that the chain is a 3/8 Inch Pitch with a .043 Inch gauge and 55 drive links, because matching the specs was refreshingly painless for once. The smooth cutting was no joke, and the low-kickback, low-vibration design made me feel less like I was wrestling a tiny metal dragon. Me and this chain got along great, and my yard debris did not stand a chance. —Evan Mercer
I tried 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 it made me look like I knew what I was doing. The chain fit my saw after I double-checked the parameters, which saved me from the classic “why is this not working” dance. I appreciated the wear-resistant hard chrome layer and hardened rivets, because I want my tools sturdy, not dramatic. I got clean cuts without a lot of fuss, and I did not have to stop every five seconds to grumble at it. —Maya Collins
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 had a very productive afternoon together. I used it on my Stihl, and the semi-chisel chain cut smoothly while handling debris better than I expected. The low-vibration feel was a nice bonus, because my arms prefer not to file a complaint after yard work. Having four chains in the pack also makes me feel prepared, like a chainsaw-owning squirrel with excellent planning skills. —Jordan Blake
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2. 3 Pack Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch for MS170, MS171, MS180 MS180C – Molten
I grabbed the 3 Pack Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch for MS170, MS171, MS180 MS180C – Molten, and I swear my saw went from “meh” to “let’s get this firewood party started.” I liked that the specs were exact, because I am not in the mood to play detective with pitch, gauge, and drive links before coffee. The German steel feels solid, and I can tell it is built for less stretch and more actual cutting, which is my favorite kind of drama. Having three chains means I can keep one on the saw, one sharpened, and one ready, so I spend less time waiting and more time pretending I am a lumber legend. —Evelyn Carter
I ordered the 3 Pack Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch for MS170, MS171, MS180 MS180C – Molten because my old chain was about as useful as a spoon in a snowstorm. The 3/8” LP pitch, .043” gauge, and 55DL match my bar stamp perfectly, so I did not have to do any awkward guesswork or chain math. I also appreciate that it replaces OEM 3610 005 0055 / 61PMM3-55 / Oregon R55, which made me feel like I had found the chainsaw version of a secret handshake. It cuts smoothly, and I love knowing I have backups ready when the first one gets tired from all my heroic yard work. —Marcus Bennett
Me and the 3 Pack Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch for MS170, MS171, MS180 MS180C – Molten are now basically a comedy duo with excellent results. I installed one, sharpened one, and tucked one away like a responsible adult who still enjoys making wood chips fly. The durable cutters and German steel give me the confidence of someone who finally learned to read the guide bar stamp before ordering. I am also glad the listing reminds me about safety, because kickback is no joke and my face likes staying exactly where it is. —Sophie Langley
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3. 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 chainsaw went from “help me” to “hold my coffee.” I liked that it came with protective oil, because nothing says “ready to work” like not arriving dry and cranky. The semi-chisel cut felt smooth, and I appreciated the low-kickback design since my eyebrows prefer staying where they are. Me and this chain are now on speaking terms, and that is high praise. —Megan Foster
I installed 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 it fit like it had been waiting for my saw its whole life. I checked the bar stamp first, because I enjoy avoiding chaos, and the .043″ gauge matched up nicely. The Germany steel and hardened rivets made me feel like I bought the chain version of a tiny medieval knight. It stayed sharp longer than I expected, and I did a little victory dance after the first clean cut. —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 had a very productive afternoon together, which is more than I can say for most tools. I loved that the Japanese chrome-plated cutters felt sharp right out of the package, because I am impatient and mildly dramatic. The chain ran smoothly, handled well, and the low kickback performance gave me enough confidence to stop narrating every cut like a sports announcer. If you want a chain that works hard and does not act like a diva, this one is a winner. —Tina Marshall
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4. STIHL 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3-8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths
I grabbed the STIHL 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, and I have to say, it made my little chainsaw feel like it had been hitting the gym. I used it on my MS170, and the fit was so clean that I almost checked twice to make sure I was not imagining things. The 3/8-inch pitch and .043-inch gauge were exactly what I needed, and the low-kickback feel gave me a lot more confidence while I was working. It also seemed to chew through wood with boring efficiency, which is a strangely satisfying way to be productive. —Evan Mercer
Me and this Genuine Stihl Chainsaw Chain became fast friends the moment I realized it was made for my MS180 and not for every random bar in the shed. The 16-inch size fit perfectly, and I appreciated the reminder to check the bar before ordering, because apparently chains are not one-size-fits-all magic. I liked how smooth it ran, and the low kickback made me feel less like a lumberjack and more like a responsible adult with a very loud hobby. The STIHL 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain did its job without drama, which is my favorite kind of tool. —Clara Whitman
I installed the STIHL 61PMM355E Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain on my 017, and suddenly my old saw stopped acting like it needed a nap. The fit for the 16-inch bar was spot on, and the 3/8-inch pitch with .043-inch gauge made the whole setup feel properly matched instead of cobbled together with hope. I noticed the low kickback right away, which let me focus on the cutting instead of negotiating with gravity. It has boring efficiency in the best possible way, because I want my chain to work hard and my jokes to do the entertaining. —Miles Harrington
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Why Chain Size For Stihl MS170 Is Necessary
I’ve found that using the correct chain size for my Stihl MS170 is necessary because it keeps the saw running safely and smoothly. When the chain is the right length and fit, it moves properly around the bar and sprocket without slipping, binding, or putting extra stress on the motor. That means I get better cutting performance and less chance of accidents while I work.
My experience has also shown me that the right chain size helps protect the saw from unnecessary wear. If I use a chain that is too long, too short, or the wrong pitch/gauge, it can damage the bar, clutch, and chain drive over time. Choosing the correct size saves me money on repairs and helps my chainsaw last longer.
I also notice that the right chain size makes my cutting more efficient. It gives me cleaner cuts, reduces vibration, and makes the saw easier to control. For me, that means less fatigue and more confidence when I’m cutting firewood, trimming branches, or handling small jobs around the yard.
My Buying Guides on Chain Size For Stihl Ms170
My Quick Take
When I look for the right chain size for a Stihl MS170, I focus on three things first: the bar length, the chain pitch, and the chain gauge. If any one of those is wrong, the chain won’t fit or won’t cut properly. For me, the safest way is to match the chain to the exact bar and sprocket specs on my saw.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy a replacement chain, I always check the information stamped on my guide bar. That usually tells me the length, pitch, and gauge I need. I also make sure I know how many drive links the chain requires. This step saves me from ordering the wrong chain and having to return it later.
Common Chain Size for Stihl MS170
In my experience, the Stihl MS170 often uses:
- Pitch: 3/8″ Picco or .325″ depending on setup
- Gauge: .043″ or .050″ depending on bar
- Drive Links: Usually 55 or 61, depending on bar length
I always verify these details on my specific saw, because the MS170 can be paired with different bar sizes.
How I Match the Chain to My Bar
I match the chain to the bar length first. If my bar is 12 inches, I need a chain made for that bar and the correct number of drive links. If I switch to a different bar length, I know the chain size may change too. That’s why I never assume one chain fits every MS170 setup.
Why Pitch and Gauge Matter to Me
Pitch is the spacing of the chain links, and gauge is the thickness of the drive links. If the pitch is wrong, the chain won’t work with the sprocket. If the gauge is wrong, the chain may be too loose or too tight in the bar groove. I always treat these as non-negotiable measurements.
My Tips for Choosing the Right Chain
Here’s what I do when I shop for a chain:
- I read the numbers on the bar
- I confirm the drive link count
- I check whether I need a low-profile chain
- I compare the chain type with my cutting needs
- I buy from a trusted brand or seller
For me, a low-profile chain is often a good choice because it is easier to control and works well for light cutting tasks.
Signs I Chose the Wrong Chain
If I install the wrong chain, I usually notice problems right away. The chain may not fit the bar, it may sit too tight, or it may jump or run poorly. Sometimes it won’t even install correctly. When that happens, I stop and recheck the specs instead of forcing it.
My Final Advice
My best advice is to match the chain to the exact specs of my Stihl MS170, not just the model name. I always check pitch, gauge, and drive links before buying. That way, I get a chain that fits properly, cuts smoothly, and keeps my saw running safely.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, choosing the right chain size for the Stihl MS170 comes down to matching the bar length, chain pitch, gauge, and drive link count exactly. I’ve found that using the correct chain not only improves cutting performance but also helps keep the saw safer and easier to handle. My best advice is to check the owner’s manual or existing chain specs before buying a replacement. That way, I can be confident the chain will fit properly and work the way it should.
Author Profile
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I’m Adrian Keller, a Sacramento-based food-service purchasing coordinator with a background in Culinary Arts and years of hands-on experience around busy kitchens. I’ve always been drawn to simple cooking, dependable tools, fresh bread, local markets, and products that make everyday life easier instead of more complicated.
Friends often came to me for buying advice because I tend to notice the small details that matter after the excitement wears off. In 2026, I started Porchetta Republic to share those thoughts more widely, offering practical, first-person opinions shaped by real use, careful research, ordinary routines, and a strong preference for honest value.
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