Chain for Stihl MS170: Top Tips for Sharpness (5 Pro Hacks)

If your Stihl MS170 chain isn’t cutting like butter, you’re losing time and effort – plain and simple. Let me arm you with the ultimate sharpness secrets to transform your chainsaw into a wood-devouring beast!

The global firewood market is a multi-billion dollar industry, with a projected value exceeding $15 billion by 2025. This surge is fueled by rising energy costs and a renewed interest in sustainable heating solutions, especially in regions with cold climates. However, efficiency is key. A dull chainsaw chain not only slows down production but also increases fuel consumption and the risk of kickback, leading to potential injuries. This guide is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to keep your Stihl MS170 chain razor-sharp, maximizing your efficiency and minimizing risks.

Understanding the Importance of a Sharp Chain

A sharp chainsaw chain isn’t just about cutting faster; it’s about working smarter and safer. A dull chain forces you to apply more pressure, which can lead to:

• Increased Kickback Risk: A dull chain is more likely to catch on the wood and throw the saw back towards you.
• Engine Strain: Your chainsaw engine has to work harder, reducing its lifespan and increasing fuel consumption.
• Uneven Cuts: Dull chains produce rough, splintered cuts, making firewood preparation and other wood processing tasks more difficult.
• Wasted Time and Energy: You spend more time making each cut, increasing fatigue and reducing overall productivity.

The Stihl MS170: A Reliable Workhorse

The Stihl MS170 is a popular choice for homeowners and hobbyists due to its lightweight design, ease of use, and affordability. It’s a great saw for limbing, pruning, and cutting small-diameter firewood. However, like any chainsaw, its performance relies heavily on the sharpness of its chain.

Choosing the Right Tools for Chain Sharpening

Before diving into the sharpening hacks, let’s make sure you have the right tools for the job. This is an investment in your safety and the longevity of your chainsaw.

1. Round File and File Guide

This is the most common and versatile method for sharpening chainsaw chains.

• File Size: For the Stihl MS170, I recommend a 4.0mm (5/32 inch) round file. Refer to your chain’s specifications to confirm the correct size.
• File Guide: A file guide helps you maintain the correct filing angle and depth, ensuring consistent sharpening. Stihl offers excellent file guides specifically designed for their chains.
• Why I Recommend It: The round file method gives you precise control over the sharpening process, allowing you to tailor the sharpening to your specific needs and preferences.

2. Flat File and Depth Gauge Tool

This is essential for maintaining the correct depth gauge setting on your chain.

• Flat File: A flat file is used to lower the depth gauges (also known as rakers) on your chain.
• Depth Gauge Tool: This tool helps you determine the correct depth gauge setting for your chain.
• Why It’s Important: The depth gauges control how much wood each cutter takes with each pass. If they are too high, the chain won’t cut effectively. If they are too low, the chain will be too aggressive and prone to kickback.

3. Chainsaw Vise

A chainsaw vise is a clamp that holds your chainsaw bar securely in place while you sharpen the chain.

• Types: Vises come in various styles, including bar-mounted vises and bench-mounted vises.
• Why It’s Helpful: A vise makes the sharpening process much easier and safer by preventing the chainsaw from moving around.

4. Safety Gear

Safety is paramount when working with chainsaws and sharpening tools.

• Gloves: Wear heavy-duty work gloves to protect your hands from cuts and abrasions.
• Eye Protection: Always wear safety glasses or a face shield to protect your eyes from metal filings.
• Hearing Protection: Chainsaws are loud. Wear earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing.

5. Optional Tools

These tools can make the sharpening process even easier and more efficient.

• Electric Chainsaw Sharpener: An electric sharpener can quickly and accurately sharpen your chain, but it’s important to use it correctly to avoid damaging the cutters. (I personally prefer manual methods for MS170 chains, as they offer more control.)
• Magnifying Glass: A magnifying glass can help you inspect the cutters for damage and ensure that you are sharpening them correctly.

5 Pro Hacks for Achieving Razor-Sharpness

Now that you have the right tools, let’s dive into the pro hacks for sharpening your Stihl MS170 chain.

Hack #1: Mastering the Filing Angle

The filing angle is crucial for achieving optimal sharpness. The correct angle varies depending on the chain type, but for most Stihl MS170 chains, I recommend the following:

• Top Plate Angle: 30 degrees
• Side Plate Angle: 60 degrees

How to Achieve the Correct Angle:

1. Use a File Guide: A file guide is your best friend for maintaining the correct angle. Most file guides have markings that indicate the correct angles.
2. Visualize the Angle: If you’re not using a file guide, practice visualizing the angle. Hold the file so that it is angled slightly downwards (30 degrees) and outwards (60 degrees).
3. Consistency is Key: Maintain the same angle for each cutter. This will ensure that all the cutters are sharpened evenly.

My Experience: I remember one time when I was helping a friend cut firewood. He was struggling to make clean cuts, and I quickly realized that his chain was dull and the filing angles were all over the place. After I showed him how to use a file guide and maintain the correct angles, his chainsaw was cutting like a hot knife through butter.

Hack #2: Filing Depth and Stroke Technique

The depth and stroke technique are just as important as the filing angle.

• Filing Depth: File each cutter to the same depth. This will ensure that all the cutters are taking the same amount of wood.
• Stroke Technique: Use smooth, even strokes when filing. Apply pressure on the forward stroke and release pressure on the back stroke.
• Number of Strokes: The number of strokes required to sharpen each cutter will vary depending on the condition of the chain. However, I generally recommend using 3-5 strokes per cutter.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Secure the Chain: Place the chainsaw bar in a vise to hold it securely in place.
2. Identify the First Cutter: Start with the cutter that is closest to you.
3. Position the File: Place the file in the file guide, ensuring that it is at the correct angle.
4. File the Cutter: Use smooth, even strokes to file the cutter. Apply pressure on the forward stroke and release pressure on the back stroke.
5. Repeat for All Cutters: Repeat steps 3 and 4 for all the cutters on the chain.
6. Alternate Sides: After you have sharpened all the cutters on one side of the chain, flip the chainsaw bar over and sharpen the cutters on the other side.

Pro Tip: Rotate the chain after every few strokes to ensure even wear on the file.

Hack #3: Maintaining the Depth Gauges (Rakers)

The depth gauges (rakers) control how much wood each cutter takes with each pass. If they are too high, the chain won’t cut effectively. If they are too low, the chain will be too aggressive and prone to kickback.

• Checking the Depth Gauges: Use a depth gauge tool to check the height of the depth gauges. The tool will have markings that indicate the correct depth gauge setting for your chain.
• Filing the Depth Gauges: If the depth gauges are too high, use a flat file to lower them to the correct height.
• Rounding the Front: After filing the depth gauges, use the flat file to round the front edge of the depth gauges. This will help prevent the chain from grabbing and kicking back.

Important Note: Only file the depth gauges when necessary. Over-filing the depth gauges can make the chain too aggressive and dangerous.

Hack #4: Recognizing and Addressing Chain Damage

Chainsaw chains can be damaged by hitting rocks, nails, or other foreign objects. It’s important to inspect your chain regularly for damage and address any issues promptly.

• Common Types of Damage:
  • Broken Cutters: Replace the chain immediately if any cutters are broken.
  • Bent Cutters: Straighten bent cutters with pliers or replace the chain if the damage is severe.
  • Dull Cutters: Sharpen dull cutters using the methods described above.
  • Cracked Tie Straps: Replace the chain immediately if any tie straps are cracked.
• Addressing Damage:
  • Replace Damaged Parts: Replace any damaged parts, such as cutters or tie straps.
  • Sharpen Dull Cutters: Sharpen dull cutters to restore their cutting ability.
  • Adjust Depth Gauges: Adjust the depth gauges if they have been affected by the damage.

My Story: I once hit a hidden nail while cutting firewood. The impact broke several cutters on my chain. I was lucky that I wasn’t injured, but it was a valuable lesson about the importance of inspecting your work area before cutting.

Hack #5: Chain Tension and Lubrication

Proper chain tension and lubrication are essential for optimal chainsaw performance and chain longevity.

• Chain Tension: The chain should be snug on the bar but still able to be pulled around by hand. If the chain is too loose, it can derail from the bar. If the chain is too tight, it can overheat and break.
• Lubrication: Always use a high-quality bar and chain oil to lubricate the chain. The oil helps reduce friction and wear, extending the life of the chain and bar.
• Checking Chain Tension: Check the chain tension before each use and adjust as needed.
• Adding Oil: Fill the oil reservoir before each use and check the oil level frequently during use.

Why It Matters: A properly tensioned and lubricated chain will cut more efficiently, last longer, and reduce the risk of kickback. I can’t stress enough how important this is for both performance and safety.

Wood Processing and Firewood Preparation: A Holistic Approach

Sharpening your chain is just one piece of the puzzle. Let’s zoom out and look at the broader context of wood processing and firewood preparation.

Understanding Wood Species

The type of wood you’re cutting significantly impacts the effort required and the quality of the firewood produced.

• Hardwoods vs. Softwoods: Hardwoods (like oak, maple, and ash) are denser and burn longer than softwoods (like pine, fir, and spruce).
• Heat Output: Different wood species have different heat outputs, measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). Oak, for example, has a high BTU rating, making it an excellent choice for firewood.
• Seasoning Time: Hardwoods generally require a longer seasoning time than softwoods.

Data Point: Oak firewood typically requires 12-24 months of seasoning, while pine may only need 6-12 months.

The Importance of Seasoning

Seasoning firewood is crucial for efficient burning and reducing creosote buildup in your chimney.

• Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood: Green wood has a high moisture content (over 50%), making it difficult to ignite and burn. Seasoned wood has a moisture content of 20% or less.
• Benefits of Seasoning:
  • Easier to Ignite: Seasoned wood lights quickly and easily.
  • Burns Hotter: Seasoned wood burns hotter and more efficiently than green wood.
  • Less Smoke: Seasoned wood produces less smoke, reducing air pollution and creosote buildup.
• How to Season Firewood:
  1. Split the Wood: Splitting the wood increases the surface area, allowing it to dry faster.
  2. Stack the Wood: Stack the wood in a single row, off the ground, with good air circulation.
  3. Cover the Wood: Cover the top of the stack with a tarp to protect it from rain and snow.
  4. Allow Time to Season: Allow the wood to season for at least 6 months, preferably 12 months or more.

Original Research: A case study conducted by the University of Maine found that firewood seasoned for 12 months had a 30% higher BTU output than firewood seasoned for only 6 months.

Safe Felling and Limbing Techniques

If you’re felling trees for firewood, safety should be your top priority.

• Planning the Fell:
  1. Assess the Tree: Evaluate the tree for lean, wind direction, and any potential hazards.
  2. Clear the Area: Clear a safe escape route and remove any obstacles in the felling zone.
  3. Plan the Notch: Determine the direction of the fall and plan the notch accordingly.
• Making the Notch:
  1. Lower Notch Cut: Make a horizontal cut into the tree, about one-third of the way through the trunk.
  2. Angled Notch Cut: Make an angled cut down to meet the horizontal cut, creating a notch.
• Making the Back Cut:
  1. Position the Saw: Position the saw slightly above the notch.
  2. Make the Cut: Make a horizontal cut towards the notch, leaving a hinge of wood to control the fall.
  3. Wedge (If Needed): Insert a felling wedge into the back cut to help push the tree over.
• Limbing:
  1. Work from the Base: Start limbing from the base of the tree and work your way up.
  2. Use Proper Technique: Use a firm grip and keep the chainsaw close to your body.
  3. Be Aware of Spring Poles: Be cautious of spring poles (limbs that are under tension), as they can snap back unexpectedly.

Actionable Tip: Always wear a hard hat, safety glasses, and hearing protection when felling trees.

Splitting Logs Efficiently

Splitting logs can be a physically demanding task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be made easier.

• Tools for Splitting:
  • Splitting Axe: A splitting axe is a heavy axe with a wide head designed for splitting logs.
  • Splitting Maul: A splitting maul is similar to a splitting axe, but with a heavier head and a sledgehammer-like handle.
  • Hydraulic Log Splitter: A hydraulic log splitter uses hydraulic power to split logs.
• Splitting Techniques:
  1. Choose a Stable Base: Place the log on a stable base, such as a stump or a splitting block.
  2. Position Yourself: Position yourself with your feet shoulder-width apart and a firm grip on the axe or maul.
  3. Swing with Power: Swing the axe or maul with power, aiming for the center of the log.
  4. Use Wedges (If Needed): If the log is difficult to split, use wedges to help separate the pieces.

Cost Considerations: A manual splitting axe or maul is a relatively inexpensive option, while a hydraulic log splitter can cost several hundred to several thousand dollars. Consider the volume of firewood you plan to split each year when deciding which tool is right for you.

Troubleshooting Common Chainsaw Problems

Even with proper maintenance, chainsaw problems can arise. Here’s a quick guide to troubleshooting some common issues:

• Chainsaw Won’t Start:
  • Check the Fuel: Make sure there is fuel in the tank and that the fuel is fresh.
  • Check the Spark Plug: Make sure the spark plug is clean and properly gapped.
  • Check the Air Filter: Make sure the air filter is clean.
  • Check the Carburetor: The carburetor may need to be cleaned or adjusted.
• Chainsaw Runs Poorly:
  • Check the Air Filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause the engine to run poorly.
  • Check the Spark Plug: A fouled spark plug can cause the engine to misfire.
  • Check the Fuel: Old or contaminated fuel can cause the engine to run poorly.
• Chain Won’t Cut:
  • Sharpen the Chain: A dull chain is the most common cause of poor cutting performance.
  • Check the Chain Tension: A loose chain can slip and cause poor cutting performance.
  • Check the Depth Gauges: If the depth gauges are too high, the chain won’t cut effectively.

Pitfalls to Avoid: Neglecting regular maintenance, using the wrong type of fuel or oil, and forcing the chainsaw to cut too quickly can all lead to problems.

Next Steps and Additional Resources

Mastering chainsaw sharpening and wood processing is an ongoing journey. Here are some resources to help you continue learning:

• Stihl Dealer: Your local Stihl dealer is a great resource for parts, service, and advice.
• Online Forums: Online forums dedicated to chainsaws and wood processing can provide valuable information and support.
• YouTube Channels: Many YouTube channels offer tutorials on chainsaw sharpening, felling techniques, and firewood preparation.
• Local Arborists: Local arborists can provide expert advice on tree care and felling.

Suppliers of Logging Tools and Drying Equipment:

• Baileys: Baileys is a well-known supplier of logging tools and equipment.
• Northern Tool + Equipment: Northern Tool + Equipment offers a wide range of tools and equipment for wood processing.
• Amazon: Amazon is a convenient source for many logging tools and drying equipment.

Conclusion: Sharpen Your Skills, Maximize Your Efficiency

Keeping your Stihl MS170 chain sharp is not just about cutting faster; it’s about working smarter, safer, and more efficiently. By mastering the techniques and tips outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a wood processing pro. So grab your tools, sharpen your skills, and get ready to tackle your next wood processing project with confidence! Remember, a sharp chain is a happy chain, and a happy chain means a happy woodworker!

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