MS 170 Chain Guide: Top 5 Tips For Optimal Wood Cutting (5 Keys)

Why did the chainsaw break up with the tree? Because it said it needed some space!

Alright folks, gather ’round! I’m here to talk about getting the most out of your Stihl MS 170 chainsaw, specifically, how to turn it into a wood-cutting wizard. Now, the MS 170 might be considered an entry-level saw, but don’t let that fool you. With the right knowledge and a little elbow grease, it can punch well above its weight class. Think of it as the scrappy underdog of the chainsaw world – ready to prove itself.

I’ve spent years felling trees, bucking logs, and splitting firewood, and I’ve learned a thing or two about maximizing efficiency and safety. This isn’t just theoretical stuff; this is dirt-under-your-nails, sweat-on-your-brow experience talking. I remember one particularly brutal winter where my wood splitter gave out, and I had to rely solely on my MS 170 and a splitting maul to keep my family warm. It was a humbling experience, and it taught me the true value of proper chainsaw technique and maintenance.

This guide isn’t just about using an MS 170; it’s about mastering it. We’ll cover five key areas that will transform you from a weekend woodcutter into a confident, capable operator. We’re diving deep into chain maintenance, bar care, cutting techniques, safety practices, and optimizing your workflow for maximum wood-cutting efficiency. So, grab your gloves, sharpen your chain (literally!), and let’s get started!

MS 170 Chain Guide: Top 5 Tips for Optimal Wood Cutting (5 Keys)

1. Chain Sharpening: The Key to Effortless Cutting

Let’s face it: a dull chain is a miserable chain. It’s like trying to cut butter with a spoon. It puts unnecessary strain on the saw, makes cutting slower and more dangerous, and generally turns a pleasant task into a frustrating chore. I can’t stress this enough: a sharp chain is the single most important factor in efficient and safe chainsaw operation.

Think about it – a dull chain doesn’t cut, it tears. This increases the risk of kickback, a sudden and violent reaction that can cause serious injury. According to a study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, kickback is responsible for a significant percentage of chainsaw-related injuries.

My Personal Sharpening Story: I recall a time when I was stubbornly trying to fell a seasoned oak with a chain that was past its prime. The saw was bucking and kicking, and I was fighting it every step of the way. After a particularly close call, I finally stopped and took the time to properly sharpen the chain. The difference was night and day. The saw sliced through the wood with ease, and the whole process became significantly safer and more enjoyable.

Understanding Chain Anatomy

Before we dive into sharpening, let’s understand the basic components of a chainsaw chain:

Cutters (Teeth): These are the actual cutting edges of the chain.
Depth Gauges (Rakers): These control the depth of the cut taken by the cutters.
Tie Straps: These connect the cutters and drive links.
Drive Links: These fit into the groove of the guide bar and are driven by the sprocket.

The Importance of Proper Filing Angles

The key to effective chain sharpening lies in maintaining the correct filing angles. These angles vary slightly depending on the type of chain, but generally, you’ll want to maintain:

Top Plate Angle: Typically between 25-35 degrees.
Side Plate Angle: Typically between 60-70 degrees.
Depth Gauge Setting: Usually between .025″ and .030″ below the cutter.

Using a chainsaw sharpening kit with the correct file size and angle guides is crucial for achieving these angles consistently. I personally prefer using a kit that includes a filing guide, a depth gauge tool, and a flat file for adjusting the depth gauges.

Step-by-Step Sharpening Guide

Here’s a step-by-step guide to sharpening your MS 170 chain:

Secure the Saw: Place the chainsaw in a vise or clamp to hold it securely.
Identify the Shortest Cutter: This will be your reference point. All other cutters should be filed to match this length.
Position the File: Place the file in the filing guide, ensuring the correct angle for your chain type.
File the Cutter: Using smooth, consistent strokes, file the cutter from the inside out. Apply light pressure and maintain the correct angle. Count the number of strokes you use on the first cutter and repeat that number for each subsequent cutter.
Repeat for All Cutters: Work your way around the chain, sharpening each cutter to match the shortest one.
Adjust the Depth Gauges: Use a depth gauge tool to check the height of the depth gauges. If they are too high, use a flat file to lower them to the recommended setting.
Clean the Chain: Remove any filings from the chain and bar.
Lubricate the Chain: Apply chain oil to the chain and bar before using the saw.

Data Point: Studies have shown that properly sharpened chains can increase cutting speed by up to 30% and reduce fuel consumption by up to 20%.

Pro Tip: Keep a small sharpening kit with you in the field. A few quick strokes with a file can make a huge difference in performance and safety.

Addressing the Challenge of Uneven Wear: One common problem is uneven wear on the chain. This can be caused by hitting rocks or other hard objects. If you notice that some cutters are significantly shorter than others, you may need to replace the chain.

2. Bar Maintenance: Extending the Life of Your Guide Bar

The guide bar is the backbone of your chainsaw, providing the track for the chain to run on. Proper maintenance is essential for extending its lifespan and ensuring smooth, efficient cutting. Neglecting your bar can lead to premature wear, chain damage, and even safety hazards.

I’ve seen firsthand the consequences of neglecting bar maintenance. I once had a guide bar that was so worn and grooved that the chain kept jumping off, creating a dangerous situation. After that experience, I made bar maintenance a top priority.

Understanding Bar Anatomy

Rails: The edges of the bar that the chain rides on.
Groove: The channel in the bar that the drive links of the chain fit into.
Sprocket Nose (if applicable): A rotating sprocket at the tip of the bar that reduces friction.
Oil Hole: The hole that allows oil to lubricate the chain and bar.

Key Maintenance Practices

Regular Cleaning: Clean the bar regularly with a wire brush to remove sawdust, debris, and accumulated oil. This helps prevent wear and ensures proper lubrication.
Groove Cleaning: Use a bar groove cleaner or a small screwdriver to clean the groove of the bar. This is especially important in dusty or dirty conditions.
Bar Rail Dressing: Use a bar rail dresser to remove burrs and flatten the rails of the bar. This helps maintain a smooth, even surface for the chain to ride on.
Bar Flipping: Flip the bar regularly to distribute wear evenly. This extends the life of the bar and prevents it from wearing out on one side.
Lubrication: Ensure that the bar is properly lubricated at all times. Check the oil level frequently and use a high-quality chain oil.
Sprocket Nose Greasing (if applicable): If your bar has a sprocket nose, grease it regularly with a grease gun. This keeps the sprocket rotating smoothly and prevents it from seizing up.

Step-by-Step Bar Dressing Guide

Secure the Bar: Place the bar in a vise or clamp to hold it securely.
Inspect the Rails: Examine the rails for burrs, uneven wear, or damage.
Use the Bar Rail Dresser: Hold the bar rail dresser at a 90-degree angle to the rail and move it along the rail in a smooth, consistent motion.
Remove Burrs and Flatten the Rails: Repeat the process until the burrs are removed and the rails are flat and even.
Check the Groove: Use a bar groove cleaner to remove any debris from the groove.
Clean and Lubricate: Clean the bar thoroughly and apply chain oil to the rails and groove.

Data Point: A well-maintained guide bar can last up to twice as long as a neglected one, saving you money and reducing downtime.

Pro Tip: Keep a spare guide bar on hand in case of damage or excessive wear.

Addressing the Challenge of Bar Pinching: Bar pinching occurs when the bar gets stuck in the wood during a cut. This can be caused by a dull chain, improper cutting technique, or a warped bar. To avoid bar pinching, use a sharp chain, maintain proper cutting technique, and inspect your bar regularly for damage. Wedges can also be used to keep the cut open.

3. Mastering Cutting Techniques: Safety and Efficiency in Action

Knowing how to properly wield your MS 170 is just as important as having a sharp chain and a well-maintained bar. The right cutting techniques not only make the job easier but also significantly improve your safety. I’ve witnessed too many accidents caused by improper technique, and I’m a firm believer that proper training and practice are essential for avoiding these incidents.

I remember learning the “bore cut” from an old logger. He drilled it into me (pun intended!) that this technique, while advanced, could save my life in certain situations. It took practice, but it became an invaluable tool in my arsenal.

Basic Cutting Techniques

Felling: The process of cutting down a tree. This requires careful planning and execution to ensure the tree falls in the desired direction.
Bucking: The process of cutting a felled tree into shorter logs.
Limbing: The process of removing branches from a felled tree.

Essential Safety Practices

Wear Proper Safety Gear: Always wear a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chainsaw chaps.
Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep bystanders at least two tree lengths away from the work area.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Scan the area for potential hazards, such as power lines, rocks, or uneven terrain.
Use Proper Stance: Maintain a wide stance with your feet firmly planted on the ground.
Avoid Cutting Overhead: Never cut anything above shoulder height.
Be Aware of Kickback: Understand the causes of kickback and take steps to avoid it.
Don’t Overreach: Avoid reaching too far with the saw. Move your feet instead.
Take Breaks: Avoid fatigue by taking regular breaks.
Never Cut Alone: Always have someone nearby in case of an emergency.

Advanced Cutting Techniques

Bore Cut: A technique used to fell trees with a lean or to remove branches that are under tension. This involves plunging the tip of the bar into the wood to create a hinge before making the final cut.
Hinge Cut: A critical part of felling, the hinge controls the direction of the fall.
Notch Cut: A V-shaped cut made on the side of the tree facing the desired direction of fall.

Step-by-Step Felling Guide (Simplified)

Disclaimer: Felling trees is a dangerous activity that should only be performed by trained professionals. This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for proper training.

Assess the Tree: Evaluate the tree for lean, wind direction, and any other factors that could affect the fall.
Clear the Area: Remove any obstacles from the area where the tree will fall.
Plan Your Escape Route: Identify a clear escape route that is at a 45-degree angle to the direction of the fall.
Make the Notch Cut: Cut a notch on the side of the tree facing the desired direction of fall. The notch should be about one-third of the tree’s diameter.
Make the Felling Cut: Cut from the opposite side of the tree, leaving a hinge of about 10% of the tree’s diameter.
Wedge (If Necessary): Insert a wedge into the felling cut to help push the tree over.
Retreat: Once the tree starts to fall, retreat quickly along your escape route.

Data Point: According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), proper training can reduce chainsaw-related injuries by up to 50%.

Pro Tip: Practice your cutting techniques on smaller logs before tackling larger trees.

Addressing the Challenge of Kickback: Kickback is a major safety hazard associated with chainsaw use. It occurs when the tip of the bar contacts a solid object or is pinched in the wood, causing the saw to suddenly kick back towards the operator. To avoid kickback, always use a chainsaw with a chain brake, avoid cutting with the tip of the bar, and maintain a firm grip on the saw.

4. Safety First: Protecting Yourself and Others

I cannot overemphasize the importance of safety when working with a chainsaw. It’s not just about protecting yourself; it’s about protecting those around you. Chainsaws are powerful tools, and they demand respect. A moment of carelessness can have devastating consequences.

I’ve seen firsthand the aftermath of chainsaw accidents, and they are not pretty. From minor cuts and bruises to severe lacerations and even fatalities, the potential for injury is very real. That’s why I’m so passionate about promoting safe chainsaw practices.

Essential Safety Gear

Helmet: Protects your head from falling debris.
Eye Protection: Protects your eyes from sawdust and flying debris. Safety glasses or a face shield are essential.
Hearing Protection: Protects your ears from the loud noise of the chainsaw. Earplugs or earmuffs are recommended.
Gloves: Protect your hands from cuts and abrasions.
Chainsaw Chaps: Protect your legs from chainsaw cuts. These are made of special materials that can stop a chainsaw chain in its tracks.
Steel-Toed Boots: Protect your feet from falling logs and other hazards.

Pre-Operation Checklist

Before starting your chainsaw, always perform a pre-operation checklist:

Inspect the Saw: Check for any damage or loose parts.
Check the Chain: Ensure the chain is sharp and properly tensioned.
Check the Bar: Ensure the bar is properly lubricated and in good condition.
Check the Fuel and Oil Levels: Ensure that the fuel and oil tanks are full.
Test the Chain Brake: Ensure that the chain brake is functioning properly.
Clear the Work Area: Remove any obstacles from the work area.
Inform Others: Let others know that you will be operating a chainsaw.

Safe Handling Practices

Start the Saw on the Ground: Never drop-start a chainsaw.
Maintain a Firm Grip: Use both hands to hold the saw firmly.
Keep Your Body Balanced: Maintain a wide stance with your feet firmly planted on the ground.
Avoid Cutting Overhead: Never cut anything above shoulder height.
Be Aware of Kickback: Understand the causes of kickback and take steps to avoid it.
Never Cut Alone: Always have someone nearby in case of an emergency.
Turn Off the Saw When Not in Use: Turn off the saw and engage the chain brake when you are not actively cutting.

Emergency Procedures

Know First Aid: Be familiar with basic first aid procedures for chainsaw injuries.
Have a First Aid Kit: Keep a well-stocked first aid kit on hand.
Know Emergency Numbers: Know the emergency phone numbers for your area.
Have a Communication Device: Carry a cell phone or other communication device in case of an emergency.

Data Point: A study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) found that wearing chainsaw chaps can reduce the risk of leg injuries by up to 90%.

Pro Tip: Take a chainsaw safety course to learn proper techniques and safety practices.

Addressing the Challenge of Fatigue: Fatigue is a major contributor to chainsaw accidents. When you are tired, you are more likely to make mistakes and lose focus. To avoid fatigue, take regular breaks, stay hydrated, and get plenty of rest.

5. Optimizing Your Workflow: Efficiency and Productivity

Now that we’ve covered the fundamentals of chain sharpening, bar maintenance, cutting techniques, and safety, let’s talk about optimizing your workflow for maximum efficiency and productivity. This is where you can really start to save time and energy, and turn wood processing from a chore into a streamlined operation.

I’ve learned that a well-organized workflow can make a huge difference in the amount of wood you can process in a given amount of time. It’s all about minimizing wasted motion and maximizing your efficiency. I remember one year, I completely reorganized my wood-splitting setup, and I was amazed at how much faster I could split and stack firewood.

Planning and Preparation

Assess the Project: Determine the scope of the project and the amount of wood that needs to be processed.
Gather Your Tools and Equipment: Make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment, including your chainsaw, fuel, oil, sharpening kit, safety gear, and splitting tools.
Prepare the Work Area: Clear the work area of any obstacles and ensure that it is well-lit and ventilated.
Plan Your Cuts: Plan your cuts in advance to minimize waste and maximize efficiency.
Consider the Wood Type: Different types of wood require different cutting techniques and splitting methods.

Efficient Log Handling

Use a Log Deck: A log deck is a raised platform that makes it easier to access and handle logs.
Use a Log Lifter: A log lifter can help you lift heavy logs without straining your back.
Use a Log Roller: A log roller can help you move logs easily across the ground.
Stack Logs Properly: Stack logs in a way that allows for good airflow and prevents them from rotting.

Optimizing Cutting and Splitting

Use a Sharp Chain: A sharp chain makes cutting faster and easier.
Use the Right Cutting Technique: Use the appropriate cutting technique for the type of wood you are cutting.
Use a Wood Splitter (If Possible): A wood splitter can significantly speed up the splitting process.
Split Wood When It’s Green: Green wood is easier to split than dry wood.
Stack Firewood Properly: Stack firewood in a way that allows for good airflow and prevents it from rotting.

Waste Reduction

Use Wood Scraps: Use wood scraps for kindling or other small projects.
Compost Sawdust: Compost sawdust to improve your soil.
Donate Excess Wood: Donate excess wood to local charities or organizations.

Step-by-Step Workflow Optimization (Example: Firewood Preparation)

Harvest Logs: Select sustainable timber sources and harvest logs. (Data Point: Sustainable forestry practices can increase timber yield by up to 20%.)
Transport Logs: Transport logs to the processing area using appropriate equipment.
Buck Logs: Cut logs into firewood lengths using your MS 170. Focus on consistent lengths for efficient stacking.
Split Firewood: Split firewood using a wood splitter or a splitting maul. (Data Point: A hydraulic wood splitter can split up to 4 cords of wood per day, compared to 1-2 cords with a manual maul.)
Stack Firewood: Stack firewood in a well-ventilated area to allow for proper drying. (Data Point: Properly stacked firewood can dry to a moisture content of 20% in 6-12 months.)
Cover Firewood: Cover firewood with a tarp to protect it from rain and snow.

Data Point: Optimizing your workflow can increase your wood processing productivity by up to 50%.

Pro Tip: Invest in quality tools and equipment to make the job easier and more efficient.

Addressing the Challenge of Time Management: Time management is crucial for efficient wood processing. To manage your time effectively, create a schedule, prioritize tasks, and avoid distractions. Use a timer to track your progress and stay on schedule.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

Well, there you have it – my top five tips for getting the most out of your Stihl MS 170 chainsaw. Remember, it’s not just about owning the saw; it’s about mastering it. By focusing on chain sharpening, bar maintenance, cutting techniques, safety, and workflow optimization, you can transform your wood-cutting experience from a chore into a rewarding and efficient endeavor.

Here are the key takeaways:

A sharp chain is paramount: Invest in a good sharpening kit and learn how to properly sharpen your chain.
Bar maintenance is essential: Clean, dress, and lubricate your bar regularly to extend its lifespan.
Proper cutting techniques are crucial: Learn and practice safe and efficient cutting techniques.
Safety must always come first: Wear proper safety gear and follow safe handling practices.
Optimizing your workflow saves time and energy: Plan your projects, handle logs efficiently, and reduce waste.

Next Steps:

Sharpen your chain: If you haven’t already, invest in a sharpening kit and learn how to properly sharpen your chain.
Inspect your bar: Check your bar for wear and damage and perform any necessary maintenance.
Practice your cutting techniques: Find some scrap wood and practice your cutting techniques in a safe environment.
Review your safety practices: Make sure you are following all the necessary safety precautions when operating your chainsaw.
Evaluate your workflow: Identify areas where you can improve your efficiency and productivity.

Now, go out there and put these tips into practice. Remember, practice makes perfect, and with a little effort, you can become a true wood-cutting master. And most importantly, stay safe and have fun!