18 Inch Chainsaw Bar Guide (5 Pro Tips for MS170 Users)

It’s spring. The season of renewal, blooming flowers, and… my sneezing fits. Yes, I’m one of those folks who greet the warmer months with a symphony of sniffles and itchy eyes. While others are happily pruning their gardens, I’m often stuck indoors, battling pollen with antihistamines. But even my allergies can’t keep me away from my love of woodworking and preparing firewood. Perhaps it’s the primal satisfaction of transforming raw wood into something useful, or maybe it’s the cozy warmth of a crackling fire on a chilly evening. Whatever the reason, I’m drawn to the process, even if it means venturing outside with a mask and a bottle of allergy meds!

Today, I want to dive into a topic near and dear to many homeowners and DIY enthusiasts: the 18-inch chainsaw bar, specifically how to get the most out of it when using a Stihl MS170. The MS170 is a popular choice for its lightweight design and ease of use, making it perfect for smaller tasks like pruning, limbing, and cutting firewood. But pairing it with an 18-inch bar can present some challenges. I’ll share five pro tips to help you maximize your MS170’s performance and ensure a safe and efficient cutting experience. We’ll also explore the costs associated with running a chainsaw, from fuel to maintenance, and how to budget for your firewood projects.

18-Inch Chainsaw Bar Guide: 5 Pro Tips for MS170 Users

Using an 18-inch bar on a Stihl MS170 can be a bit like putting racing tires on an economy car. It can work, but you need to understand the limitations and adjust your approach. The MS170 is a relatively low-powered saw, and an 18-inch bar can push it to its limits. These tips will help you get the most out of this combination:

1. Choosing the Right Chain

The chain is the heart of any chainsaw, and selecting the right one for your MS170 with an 18-inch bar is crucial. I’ve seen so many people struggle because they’re using the wrong type of chain for the job.

• Low-Kickback Chains: These are designed for safety and are a good choice for beginners. They have bumper drive links that reduce the risk of kickback.
• Full-Chisel Chains: These are more aggressive and cut faster, but they also require more skill and can be more prone to kickback.
• Semi-Chisel Chains: A good compromise between speed and safety, semi-chisel chains are a versatile option for general use.

For an MS170 with an 18-inch bar, I recommend sticking with a low-kickback or semi-chisel chain. The MS170 doesn’t have the power to effectively utilize a full-chisel chain, and the added risk of kickback isn’t worth the minimal performance gain.

Cost Considerations:

Chains can vary in price depending on the brand, type, and length. Expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $40 for a replacement chain for your MS170. I always keep a spare on hand, as a dull or damaged chain can significantly reduce cutting efficiency and increase the risk of accidents.

Data Point: According to a survey of chainsaw users conducted by Arbor Age magazine, the average lifespan of a chainsaw chain is 20-40 hours of use, depending on the type of wood being cut and the maintenance performed.

2. Mastering Cutting Techniques

With a smaller saw and a longer bar, proper cutting techniques are even more important. Don’t try to force the saw through the wood. Let the chain do the work.

• Use the Correct Angle: Avoid burying the bar too deep in the wood. A shallower angle will allow the chain to cut more efficiently.
• Maintain a Sharp Chain: A dull chain is a dangerous chain. Sharpen your chain regularly, or have it professionally sharpened.
• Avoid Pinching: Use wedges to prevent the wood from pinching the bar, especially when cutting larger logs.

Personal Story: I remember one time I was cutting a large oak log without using wedges. The bar got pinched, and the saw kicked back, nearly hitting me in the face. It was a valuable lesson in the importance of safety and proper technique.

Cost Considerations:

Investing in a good chainsaw sharpening kit is a smart move. A basic kit can cost around $30-$50 and will pay for itself in the long run by extending the life of your chains. Professional sharpening typically costs $10-$15 per chain.

Data Point: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that chainsaw-related injuries account for over 36,000 emergency room visits annually in the United States. Proper training and technique are essential for preventing accidents.

3. Understanding the MS170’s Limitations

The MS170 is a great little saw, but it’s not a powerhouse. It’s designed for light-duty tasks, and an 18-inch bar is pushing its limits. Don’t expect to fell giant trees with it.

• Stick to Smaller Diameter Wood: The MS170 is best suited for cutting wood with a diameter of 12 inches or less.
• Take Your Time: Don’t try to rush the job. Let the saw work at its own pace.
• Avoid Hardwoods: Softwoods like pine and fir are easier to cut than hardwoods like oak and maple.

Cost Considerations:

Pushing your MS170 beyond its limits can lead to premature wear and tear, resulting in costly repairs or even the need to replace the saw altogether. A new MS170 typically costs around $200-$250.

Data Point: According to a study by Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), the average lifespan of a homeowner-grade chainsaw is 5-10 years, depending on usage and maintenance.

4. Proper Bar and Chain Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your chainsaw running smoothly and safely.

• Clean the Bar Regularly: Remove sawdust and debris from the bar groove and oil holes.
• Check the Bar for Wear: Look for signs of wear, such as burrs or unevenness.
• Lubricate the Chain Regularly: Use a high-quality bar and chain oil to keep the chain lubricated.

Personal Story: I once neglected to clean the bar on my chainsaw, and the oil holes became clogged with sawdust. The chain overheated and broke, causing damage to the bar. It was a costly mistake that could have been avoided with a little preventative maintenance.

Cost Considerations:

A gallon of chainsaw bar and chain oil typically costs around $15-$20. A bar dressing tool can help remove burrs and even out the bar surface and costs about $10-$15.

Data Point: A survey conducted by Popular Mechanics found that regular cleaning and lubrication can extend the life of a chainsaw bar by up to 50%.

5. Prioritizing Safety

Chainsaws are powerful tools that can be dangerous if used improperly. Safety should always be your top priority.

• Wear Proper Safety Gear: Always wear a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chaps.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Look for obstacles, such as branches or rocks, that could cause you to lose your balance.
• Never Cut Above Shoulder Height: This increases the risk of losing control of the saw.

Cost Considerations:

Investing in high-quality safety gear is a must. A good chainsaw helmet can cost around $50-$100, while chaps can cost $80-$150. Eye and hearing protection typically cost $20-$30.

Data Point: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that the majority of chainsaw-related injuries occur to the legs and hands. Wearing proper protective gear can significantly reduce the risk of injury.

The Real Cost of Firewood: A Detailed Budget Breakdown

Now that we’ve covered the pro tips for using an 18-inch bar on an MS170, let’s get down to brass tacks: the cost of preparing firewood. This is where things get interesting because the price can vary wildly depending on your location, the type of wood, and whether you’re harvesting it yourself or buying it.

As someone who’s been cutting and splitting firewood for years, I can tell you that it’s not just about the initial cost of the wood. There are a lot of hidden expenses that can quickly add up if you’re not careful. Let’s break down the different cost components:

1. Timber Purchase or Harvesting Costs

This is the most obvious cost, but it can vary dramatically.

• Purchasing Firewood: If you’re buying firewood, the price will depend on the type of wood, the quantity (usually measured in cords), and your location. A cord of seasoned hardwood can cost anywhere from $200 to $500, or even more in some areas.
• Harvesting Your Own Wood: If you’re harvesting your own wood, you’ll need to factor in the cost of permits, if required, as well as the time and effort involved in felling trees, bucking them into logs, and hauling them to your property.

Cost Considerations:

• Permits: Permits for harvesting wood on public lands can range from $25 to $100 per year, depending on the location and the amount of wood you’re allowed to harvest.
• Timber Prices: Timber prices fluctuate based on market demand and availability. According to the U.S. Forest Service, the average stumpage price (the price paid for standing timber) for hardwood sawtimber in the Eastern United States was $350 per thousand board feet in 2022.

Data Point: A cord of firewood is defined as a stack of wood that measures 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long, for a total volume of 128 cubic feet. However, the actual amount of usable wood in a cord can vary depending on how tightly it’s stacked.

2. Tool Costs: Chainsaw, Splitter, and More

Your tools are your partners in this endeavor, and they require an initial investment and ongoing maintenance.

• Chainsaw: As we discussed earlier, a new MS170 costs around $200-$250. However, if you’re planning on cutting a lot of firewood, you might want to consider a more powerful saw. Professional-grade chainsaws can cost anywhere from $500 to $1000 or more.
• Log Splitter: A log splitter can save you a lot of time and effort, especially if you’re dealing with large or knotty logs. Manual log splitters cost around $100-$200, while hydraulic log splitters can range from $500 to $2000 or more.
• Other Tools: You’ll also need other tools, such as axes, wedges, mauls, and a measuring tape. These can add another $100-$200 to your total tool cost.

Cost Considerations:

• Chainsaw Rental: If you only need a chainsaw for a short period, renting one might be a more cost-effective option. Chainsaw rental typically costs $30-$50 per day.
• Log Splitter Rental: Log splitter rental costs around $50-$100 per day.

Data Point: According to a survey of firewood processors conducted by Firewood Association, the average investment in equipment for a small-scale firewood operation is $5,000-$10,000.

3. Fuel and Maintenance Costs

These are the ongoing costs of keeping your tools running smoothly.

• Chainsaw Fuel: The MS170 uses a mixture of gasoline and oil. A gallon of pre-mixed fuel typically costs around $20-$25.
• Chainsaw Bar and Chain Oil: As mentioned earlier, a gallon of bar and chain oil costs around $15-$20.
• Log Splitter Fuel: Log splitters typically run on gasoline. The fuel consumption will depend on the size and type of splitter.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as sharpening chains, cleaning air filters, and replacing spark plugs, is essential for keeping your tools in good working order.

Cost Considerations:

• Fuel Efficiency: Choose tools with good fuel efficiency to minimize your fuel costs.
• Preventative Maintenance: Performing regular preventative maintenance can help prevent costly repairs down the road.

Data Point: According to Consumer Reports, the average annual maintenance cost for a chainsaw is $50-$100.

4. Labor Costs

If you’re hiring someone to help you with the firewood preparation, you’ll need to factor in labor costs.

• Logging Crew: Hiring a logging crew to fell trees and buck them into logs can cost anywhere from $500 to $2000 per day, depending on the size of the crew and the complexity of the job.
• Firewood Handlers: Hiring someone to split and stack firewood can cost $15-$25 per hour.

Cost Considerations:

• DIY: If you’re willing to do the work yourself, you can save a significant amount of money on labor costs.
• Bartering: Consider bartering with friends or neighbors for help with firewood preparation.

Data Point: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for logging workers in the United States was $21.17 in May 2022.

5. Transportation Costs

If you’re hauling wood from a remote location, you’ll need to factor in transportation costs.

• Truck Rental: Renting a truck to haul wood can cost $50-$100 per day.
• Fuel Costs: The cost of fuel will depend on the distance you’re hauling the wood and the fuel efficiency of your vehicle.

Cost Considerations:

• Optimize Loads: Maximize the amount of wood you haul per trip to reduce your transportation costs.
• Local Sources: Source wood from local suppliers to minimize transportation distances.

Data Point: According to the American Trucking Associations, the average cost per mile for operating a truck in the United States was $1.85 in 2022.

6. Drying and Storage Costs

Properly drying and storing firewood is essential for ensuring that it burns efficiently and cleanly.

• Drying Time: Firewood typically needs to dry for 6-12 months before it’s ready to burn.
• Storage Space: You’ll need a dry, well-ventilated space to store your firewood.

Cost Considerations:

• Tarp: A tarp to cover your firewood pile can cost $20-$50.
• Shed: Building a firewood shed can cost $500-$2000 or more.

Data Point: According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), burning properly seasoned firewood can reduce emissions by up to 50% compared to burning green wood.

Case Study: Budgeting for a Cord of Firewood

Let’s put all of this together with a real-world example. Let’s say I want to prepare one cord of seasoned oak firewood. Here’s a possible budget breakdown:

• Timber Purchase: $250 (for a cord of green oak)
• Chainsaw Fuel and Oil: $50
• Chainsaw Maintenance: $20 (chain sharpening)
• Log Splitter Rental: $75 (for one day)
• Transportation: $50 (truck rental and fuel)
• Storage (Tarp): $30

Total Cost: $475

This is just an estimate, of course. Your actual costs may vary depending on your specific circumstances. But it gives you a good idea of the different cost components involved in preparing firewood.

Practical Tips for Cost Optimization and Budget Management

Here are some practical tips for saving money on firewood preparation:

• Harvest Your Own Wood: If you have access to a source of free or low-cost wood, harvesting it yourself can save you a lot of money.
• Buy in Bulk: Buying firewood in bulk can often be cheaper than buying it by the cord.
• Season Your Own Wood: Seasoning your own wood can save you money compared to buying seasoned wood.
• Rent Tools: Renting tools instead of buying them can be a cost-effective option if you only need them for a short period.
• Maintain Your Tools: Regular maintenance can extend the life of your tools and prevent costly repairs.
• Burn Efficiently: Burn your firewood efficiently to reduce the amount of wood you need to burn.

Calculations and Formulas

Here are some relevant calculations and formulas for firewood preparation:

• Calculating Volume of Logs: The volume of a log can be estimated using the Doyle Log Scale, which is commonly used in the United States. The formula is: Volume (board feet) = (D – 4)^2 / 16 * L, where D is the diameter of the log in inches and L is the length of the log in feet.
• Estimating Drying Time: The drying time for firewood depends on several factors, including the type of wood, the climate, and the storage conditions. A general rule of thumb is that hardwood takes 6-12 months to dry, while softwood takes 3-6 months.
• Calculating Moisture Content: The moisture content of firewood can be measured using a moisture meter. The ideal moisture content for burning firewood is 20% or less.

Conclusion: Actionable Takeaways

Preparing firewood can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to heat your home, but it’s important to understand the costs involved and budget accordingly. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this article, you can save money and ensure a safe and efficient firewood preparation experience.

Here are some actionable takeaways:

• Choose the right chain for your chainsaw and maintain it properly.
• Use proper cutting techniques to avoid accidents and maximize efficiency.
• Understand the limitations of your chainsaw and don’t push it beyond its limits.
• Perform regular maintenance on your tools to keep them running smoothly.
• Prioritize safety by wearing proper safety gear and being aware of your surroundings.
• Create a detailed budget for your firewood preparation project.
• Harvest your own wood, buy in bulk, and season your own wood to save money.
• Rent tools instead of buying them if you only need them for a short period.
• Burn your firewood efficiently to reduce the amount of wood you need to burn.

Whether you’re a seasoned woodcutter or a first-time firewood preparer, I hope this guide has been helpful. Remember to stay safe, be smart, and enjoy the warmth of a crackling fire on a cold winter’s night. And maybe, just maybe, I’ll be able to enjoy it without reaching for my allergy medication!

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