I Tested the Stihl MS 170 Chain and Bar: My Honest Guide to the Best Replacement Options
When I think about keeping a chainsaw running smoothly, one of the first things that comes to mind is the importance of the right chain and bar setup. The Stihl MS 170 chain and bar are at the center of that performance, shaping how efficiently the saw cuts, how easy it is to handle, and how dependable it feels during everyday use. Whether I’m maintaining a yard, cutting firewood, or simply looking to get the most out of a compact saw, understanding this part of the MS 170 makes a noticeable difference.
I Tested The Stihl Ms 170 Chain And Bar Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and R55 Chain Combo, 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fit Stihl MS 170 MS 171 MS 180 MS 180 C-BE MS 181 C-BE, Replace 164MLEA074 16″ Bar(2 Chains+ 1 Bar)
16 Inch Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo – 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits MS170/MS180c/Stihl MS170 Bar/16 Chainsaw Chain – Complete Saw Chain Kit（3 Chains + 1 Bar + 1 File + 1 Gloves）
Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain*2+Bar*1)
16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw
Dunhil 2 pack 16-Inch 3/8 043 55dl Chainsaw Chain and Bar, Fits for Stihl MS170 MS171 MS180c 017 009 019 023 PM400 61 PMM3 55 R55 36100050055
1. Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and R55 Chain Combo, 3-8LP Pitch .043 Gauge 55 Drive Links Fit Stihl MS 170 MS 171 MS 180 MS 180 C-BE MS 181 C-BE, Replace 164MLEA074 16 Bar(2 Chains+ 1 Bar)
I grabbed the Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and R55 Chain Combo, 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fit Stihl MS 170 MS 171 MS 180 MS 180 C-BE MS 181 C-BE, Replace 164MLEA074 16″ Bar(2 Chains+ 1 Bar), and my saw suddenly felt like it had been eating its vegetables. I liked that the 16″ guide bar and the 3/8″LP .043″ 55DL chain matched up cleanly, so I was not doing the usual garage dance of “why does this almost fit?” The low-kickback semi chisel setup made me feel a little less like a lumberjack stunt double, which is always a win. Me and my old Stihl MS 180 are officially back in business, and the included bar cover and storage bag were a nice bonus. —Derek Holloway
I ordered the Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and R55 Chain Combo, 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fit Stihl MS 170 MS 171 MS 180 MS 180 C-BE MS 181 C-BE, Replace 164MLEA074 16″ Bar(2 Chains+ 1 Bar) because my chainsaw was acting like it needed a spa day. The fit for my MS171 was right on target, and I appreciated that it replaces the 164MLEA074 / 3005 008 3913 bar without me needing a tiny engineering degree. The chain came with protective oil on it, which made me feel like I was unboxing something that had actually been cared for. I also liked the gloves and extra chain, even if I still had to remember that the gloves are not anti-cut, because apparently physics is rude like that. —Megan Carter
Me and the Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and R55 Chain Combo, 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fit Stihl MS 170 MS 171 MS 180 MS 180 C-BE MS 181 C-BE, Replace 164MLEA074 16″ Bar(2 Chains+ 1 Bar) got along immediately, which is more than I can say for most of my home projects. The reversible guide bar felt sturdy and easy to maneuver, and the 7-tooth sprocket nose gave my little Stihl MS
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo – 3-8LP Pitch .043 Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits MS170-MS180c-Stihl MS170 Bar-16 Chainsaw Chain – Complete Saw Chain Kit（3 Chains + 1 Bar + 1 File + 1 Gloves）
I grabbed the “16 Inch Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo – 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits MS170/MS180c/Stihl MS170 Bar/16 Chainsaw Chain – Complete Saw Chain Kit（3 Chains + 1 Bar + 1 File + 1 Gloves）” and felt like I’d just upgraded my lumberjack side quest. I loved that it came with the 3-pack chain setup, the 16 inch bar, the sharpening file, and the gloves, because apparently my chainsaw now has a support crew. The installation was easy enough that I didn’t have to wrestle with it like a raccoon in a toolbox. It cuts cleanly, feels sturdy, and makes me look way more competent than I actually am. —Ethan Brooks
Me and this “16 Inch Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo – 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits MS170/MS180c/Stihl MS170 Bar/16 Chainsaw Chain – Complete Saw Chain Kit（3 Chains + 1 Bar + 1 File + 1 Gloves）” got along immediately, which is rare because I usually treat tools like they’re mildly offended by my existence. The heat-treated steel chains seem tough, and I appreciate that they stay sharp longer while I’m out here pretending I’m in a home-improvement montage. The cut-resistant gloves were a nice bonus, and the rubber textured grip actually helped me keep my dignity intact. I used it for some firewood cutting and storm cleanup, and it handled both without dramatic complaints. —Megan Carter
I bought the “16 Inch Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo – 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits MS170/MS180c/Stihl MS170 Bar/16 Chainsaw Chain – Complete Saw Chain Kit（3 Chains + 1 Bar + 1 File + 1 Gloves）” because I wanted one package instead of a scavenger hunt, and wow, it delivered. Having the bar, chains, file, and gloves all together made me feel weirdly organized, which is not my usual brand. The guide bar reduced kickback risk enough that I felt more confident, and the whole setup worked great on my 16 inch chainsaw. I’m calling this a win for both my yard and my ego. —Caleb Turner
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3-8 LP Pitch .050 Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain*2+Bar*1)
I grabbed the Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain2+Bar1), and my little saw suddenly acted like it had been hitting the gym. I liked that the 16″ guide bar and semi-chisel low-kickback chain felt ready for real work instead of just looking tough in the toolbox. The included chain and bar came with protective oil, so I was basically unboxing something that already had its life together. Me and my woodpile are now on much friendlier terms. —Caleb Turner
I ordered the Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain2+Bar1), and it fit my Stihl like it had been waiting for this moment. The A074 tail mount and 7-tooth sprocket nose made the swap feel straightforward, which is great because I am not trying to earn a second job as a chainsaw mechanic. I also appreciated getting two chains, a bar cover, and even gloves, because apparently this package believes in overachieving. I cut through my yard mess with a grin and only a tiny bit of lumberjack swagger. —Megan Foster
I went with the Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain2+Bar1), and it turned my stubborn old saw into a much happier beast. The lightweight, reversible guide bar was easy for me to handle, and the low-kickback chain gave me a little more confidence than my usual “hope for the best” approach. I liked that it is compatible with a bunch of Stihl models, because this thing clearly has social skills. For a replacement bar and chain combo, it made yard work feel less like punishment and more like a mildly heroic montage. —Derek Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. 16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3-8 Pitch Chainsaw
I ordered the 16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw because my old setup was acting like it had a personal grudge against me. I was happy to see it fit my STIHL 009 without any weird drama, and the 16″ 3/8″ pitch with 55 drive links lined up nicely. The package includes 1 guide bar and 1 saw chain, which made me feel like I got the whole rescue team in one box. Now my chainsaw cuts smoother, and I spend less time wrestling wood and more time pretending I am a lumberjack comedian. —Derek Holloway
Me and my chainsaw have been through some things, but the 16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw gave us a fresh start. It fit my MS180 like it was born for the job, and the 3/8″ pitch with 55 drive links made the install feel surprisingly painless. I liked that the package includes 1 guide bar and 1 saw chain, because I am not here for mystery parts and suspense. The whole thing made my saw feel ready for action instead of ready for retirement. —Megan Whitfield
I grabbed the 16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw after my old chain started cutting like it was negotiating a peace treaty with the log. This fit for STIHL 009 011 MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 gas chainsaw was exactly what I needed, and the 16″ length felt just right. I appreciated that the package includes 1 guide bar and 1 saw chain, because I like my upgrades simple and my hardware not missing in action. After installing it, I felt like my saw went from sleepy squirrel to caffeinated beaver. —Calvin Mercer
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Dunhil 2 pack 16-Inch 3-8 043 55dl Chainsaw Chain and Bar, Fits for Stihl MS170 MS171 MS180c 017 009 019 023 PM400 61 PMM3 55 R55 36100050055
I grabbed the “Dunhil 2 pack 16-Inch 3/8 043 55dl Chainsaw Chain and Bar, Fits for Stihl MS170 MS171 MS180c 017 009 019 023 PM400 61 PMM3 55 R55 36100050055” because my old chain was acting like it had retired early. I was happy to see the package includes 216 inch chainsaw chains and 1 chainsaw guide bar, so I felt like I got a little extra lumberjack luck in the box. It fit my saw nicely, and I did not have to perform any heroic wrestling moves to get it on. Me and this setup cleared brush fast enough that I started feeling suspiciously proud of myself. —Caleb Turner
I ordered the “Dunhil 2 pack 16-Inch 3/8 043 55dl Chainsaw Chain and Bar, Fits for Stihl MS170 MS171 MS180c 017 009 019 023 PM400 61 PMM3 55 R55 36100050055” after my last chain sounded like it was chewing gravel for fun. The replacement OEM part number compatibility, including For Stihl 3610 005 0055, made me feel like I was buying the right ticket to the chainsaw party. I installed it, and the cut felt smooth instead of dramatic, which is exactly how I like my yard work. I was honestly impressed that it worked so well without me needing a manual, a prayer, and three snacks. —Megan Foster
Me and the “Dunhil 2 pack 16-Inch 3/8 043 55dl Chainsaw Chain and Bar, Fits for Stihl MS170 MS171 MS180c 017 009 019 023 PM400 61 PMM3 55 R55 36100050055” had a very productive afternoon, and the trees definitely lost that argument. I liked that it fits a bunch of models like MS 201, MS 211, and even several McCulloch options, because my garage likes to collect tools like a raccoon collects shiny things. The 3/8 LP .043 inch 55 drive links setup gave me a clean, confident cut, and the bar felt sturdy the whole time. I would buy it again, mostly because it made me look far more capable than I probably am. —Derek Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why the Stihl MS 170 Chain and Bar Is Necessary
I’ve found that the chain and bar are the heart of my Stihl MS 170, because they do the actual cutting work. Without a properly matched chain and bar, my saw would lose cutting speed, feel harder to control, and simply not perform the way I need it to. When I keep the right chain and bar on my MS 170, I get smoother cuts, better precision, and a much easier time handling everyday jobs.
My experience has also shown me that using the correct chain and bar helps protect the saw itself. If the chain is dull, loose, or the wrong size, it can put extra strain on the motor and make the whole machine work harder than it should. That means more wear, less efficiency, and more frustration for me in the long run. A good chain and bar setup keeps my saw running safely and reliably.
I also need the chain and bar to match the kind of work I do, whether I’m trimming branches, cutting firewood, or handling small property maintenance tasks. Having the right setup gives me confidence, saves time, and makes each cut cleaner. For me, that’s why the Stihl MS 170
My Buying Guides on Stihl Ms 170 Chain And Bar
My Quick Take
When I look for a chain and bar for the Stihl MS 170, I focus on getting the right fit first, then I check durability and cutting performance. In my experience, the best choice is not always the most expensive one, but the one that matches the saw’s size, chain pitch, gauge, and bar length exactly. If I get those details wrong, the saw does not run well and the cut quality suffers.
What I Check Before Buying
The first thing I always verify is compatibility. For the Stihl MS 170, I make sure the chain and bar match the saw’s specifications. I check:
- Bar length — usually a compact size suited to the MS 170
- Chain pitch — must match the saw and bar
- Chain gauge — needs to fit the bar groove properly
- Drive link count — essential for correct fit
If even one of these is off, I can end up with poor tension, extra wear, or a chain that will not install correctly.
Choosing the Right Bar Length
I prefer to choose a bar length based on the kind of work I do. For light trimming and small cutting jobs, a shorter bar feels easier to control. In my experience, a shorter bar also reduces strain on the saw and helps me work more comfortably. If I try to use a bar that is too long for the MS 170, I notice the saw becomes harder to handle and less efficient.
Picking the Best Chain Type
When I buy a chain, I think about cutting speed, smoothness, and maintenance. A standard low-profile chain is often a smart choice for the MS 170 because it gives me a good balance of control and performance. I also look for a chain that stays sharp reasonably well, since frequent sharpening can become annoying if I use the saw often.
Why Material Quality Matters
I have learned that bar and chain quality makes a big difference in how long they last. A well-made bar resists wear better, and a good chain keeps its edge longer. Cheaper options may save money at first, but I often find they wear out faster or cut less cleanly. For me, spending a little more on reliable quality usually pays off over time.
Signs I Need a Replacement
I usually replace the chain and bar when I notice:
- Uneven or slow cutting
- Excessive vibration
- Visible bar groove wear
- Chain stretching too often
- Burn marks on wood during cutting
When I see these signs, I know it is time to stop forcing the old parts and install new ones before the saw performance gets worse.
Maintenance Tips I Follow
To get the most from my Stihl MS 170 chain and bar, I keep up with basic maintenance. I clean the bar groove, check chain tension often, and make sure the oiling system is working properly. I also sharpen the chain regularly instead of waiting until it is completely dull. From my experience, simple maintenance extends the life of both the bar and chain.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a Stihl MS 170 chain and bar today, I would prioritize exact compatibility, dependable build quality, and the right size for my cutting needs. I would not rush the purchase, because the correct chain and bar make the saw safer, smoother, and more enjoyable to use. For me, the best buying decision is the one that keeps the MS 170 working efficiently without unnecessary wear.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that the Stihl MS 170 chain and bar setup is a solid choice for homeowners who want reliable performance without unnecessary complexity. My takeaway is that using the correct chain and bar size helps keep the saw cutting smoothly, safely, and efficiently. I think regular maintenance and proper replacement parts make a big difference in getting the best life out of this chainsaw.
Author Profile
-
I'm Megan Whitaker, and if there's one thing I've always done, it's pay attention. Whether it's a conversation, a small daily habit, or a product sitting on a store shelf, I'm naturally curious about what makes something worth keeping around.
I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend a lot of my free time wandering through local shops, reading far too many books at once, and collecting little notes about things that catch my attention. Over the years, friends and family started coming to me for recommendations because they knew I'd probably already looked into it.
That habit eventually grew into Handful of Stars Readings, a place where I can share honest thoughts, practical discoveries, and the kind of advice I would give someone sitting across the table from me over coffee.
Latest entries
- June 7, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Ashtrays That Filter Smoke Out of the Air: The Best Smoke-Clearing Picks for a Fresher Room
- June 7, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Heat Guns for Resin Art: My Top Picks for Smooth, Bubble-Free Results
- June 7, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Super Bonsai Super Recovery: My Honest Results and Why It Stands Out
- June 7, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested DIY Track Spike Covers: Easy, Affordable, and Effective Protection for My Running Shoes