MS 170 Stihl Chainsaw Bar Guide (5 Tips for Optimal Woodcutting)

It’s a popular choice for homeowners and occasional users, known for its lightweight design and affordability. However, to truly unlock its potential and get the most out of your MS 170, understanding the bar and how to optimize its use is crucial. This guide will provide you with five essential tips to enhance your woodcutting experience with the Stihl MS 170, plus a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with firewood preparation, so you can budget effectively and make informed decisions.

MS 170 Stihl Chainsaw Bar Guide (5 Tips for Optimal Woodcutting)

1. Choosing the Right Bar Length

Selecting the appropriate bar length for your Stihl MS 170 is the first step towards efficient and safe woodcutting. The MS 170 typically comes with a 16-inch bar, which is generally suitable for felling small trees, limbing, and cutting firewood. However, depending on your specific needs, you might consider a shorter bar (14-inch) for improved maneuverability or stick with the standard 16-inch bar for versatility.

• Factors to Consider:

  • Tree Diameter: If you primarily cut trees with diameters under 12 inches, a 14-inch bar might be sufficient. For larger trees, the 16-inch bar offers better reach.
  • User Experience: Beginners often find shorter bars easier to control, while experienced users can handle longer bars with greater precision.
  • Type of Wood: Softer woods like pine can be cut efficiently with a shorter bar, while harder woods like oak might require a longer bar for deeper cuts.

• My Experience: I remember one time when I was helping a friend clear some overgrown brush on his property. He had an MS 170 with a 14-inch bar, and it was perfect for the job. We were able to maneuver through the tight spaces and make quick, clean cuts. However, when we encountered a larger oak tree, we had to switch to a larger saw with a longer bar to avoid pinching the bar.

2. Proper Chain Selection and Maintenance

The chain is the heart of your chainsaw, and choosing the right type and maintaining it properly is essential for optimal performance. The MS 170 typically uses a 3/8″ low-profile chain, which is designed for smooth cutting and reduced kickback.

• Chain Types:

  • Full Chisel: Offers the fastest cutting but requires more frequent sharpening.
  • Semi-Chisel: A good balance of cutting speed and durability.
  • Low-Profile: Designed for reduced kickback and smoother cutting, ideal for beginners.

• Maintenance Tips:

  • Sharpening: Sharpen your chain regularly, ideally after every few tanks of fuel. A dull chain can lead to increased cutting time, strain on the saw, and potential kickback. I personally prefer using a chainsaw sharpening kit with a file guide to ensure consistent sharpening angles.
  • Tensioning: Check chain tension before each use. The chain should be snug but still able to be pulled around the bar by hand.
  • Lubrication: Use high-quality bar and chain oil to keep the chain lubricated. Proper lubrication reduces friction, extends chain life, and prevents overheating.

• Data Point: According to a study by the University of Maine, properly maintained chainsaws can reduce fuel consumption by up to 20% and increase cutting efficiency by 15%.

3. Mastering Cutting Techniques

Even with the best equipment, poor cutting techniques can lead to inefficiency, safety hazards, and damage to your chainsaw. Here are some essential techniques to master:

• Felling:

  • Assess the Tree: Check for lean, branches, and obstacles.
  • Plan Your Escape Route: Ensure a clear path away from the falling tree.
  • Make a Notch Cut: This controls the direction of the fall.
  • Make a Back Cut: Leave a hinge of wood to guide the tree’s fall.

• Limbing:

  • Work from the Base to the Top: This reduces the risk of being struck by falling limbs.
  • Use Proper Stance: Maintain a stable stance and keep your feet planted.
  • Avoid Cutting Overhead: This is dangerous and can lead to injury.

• Bucking (Cutting Logs to Length):

  • Support the Log: Use a sawhorse or other support to prevent pinching.
  • Cut from the Top Down: This reduces the risk of the log rolling or binding the saw.
  • Use a Log Jack: This makes it easier to lift and cut logs.

• Personal Story: I once witnessed a friend attempt to fell a tree without properly planning his escape route. As the tree fell, he tripped over a root and nearly got hit. Fortunately, he was able to scramble out of the way, but it was a close call. This experience taught me the importance of taking the time to assess the situation and plan your movements carefully.

4. Optimizing Bar and Chain Oiling

Proper lubrication is crucial for extending the life of your bar and chain and ensuring smooth cutting. The MS 170 has an automatic oiler that dispenses oil onto the bar and chain. However, it’s important to ensure that the oiler is functioning correctly and that you’re using the right type of oil.

• Oiler Functionality:

  • Check the Oil Level: Regularly check the oil level in the reservoir and refill as needed.
  • Clean the Oiler Port: Debris can clog the oiler port, preventing proper lubrication.
  • Adjust the Oiler: Some models allow you to adjust the oil flow. Increase the flow for harder woods or longer cutting sessions.

• Oil Type:

  • Use Bar and Chain Oil: This is specifically formulated to lubricate chainsaw bars and chains.
  • Avoid Motor Oil: Motor oil is not designed for this purpose and can damage the bar and chain.
  • Consider Bio-Oils: These are environmentally friendly and biodegradable.

• Insight: I’ve found that using a high-quality bar and chain oil not only extends the life of my bar and chain but also reduces the amount of oil I need to use. This saves me money in the long run and is better for the environment.

5. Safe Handling and Storage

Chainsaws are powerful tools that can be dangerous if not handled properly. Always follow these safety precautions:

• Wear Protective Gear:

  • Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris.
  • Hearing Protection: Chainsaws are loud and can damage your hearing.
  • Gloves: Protect your hands from cuts and abrasions.
  • Chaps: Protect your legs from chainsaw cuts.
  • Steel-Toed Boots: Protect your feet from falling logs and chainsaw injuries.

• Safe Handling:

  • Keep a Firm Grip: Use both hands and maintain a firm grip on the chainsaw.
  • Maintain a Stable Stance: Keep your feet planted and avoid overreaching.
  • Be Aware of Kickback: Kickback occurs when the tip of the bar hits a solid object or is pinched in the wood. Be prepared for it and know how to react.

• Storage:

  • Drain the Fuel: Drain the fuel tank before storing the chainsaw for extended periods.
  • Clean the Chainsaw: Remove debris and sawdust from the chainsaw.
  • Store in a Safe Place: Store the chainsaw in a dry, secure location out of reach of children.
  • Use a Bar Cover: Protect the bar and chain from damage during storage.

Firewood Preparation Costs and Budgeting: A Deep Dive

Now, let’s delve into the cost of preparing firewood, a topic near and dear to my heart. I’ve spent countless hours splitting wood, stacking cords, and enjoying the warmth of a wood-burning stove. But what does it really cost to heat your home with firewood? The answer is more complex than you might think.

Understanding the Variable Factors

Before we dive into the numbers, it’s crucial to acknowledge the many factors that can influence the cost of firewood preparation:

• Wood Type: Hardwoods like oak and maple are denser and provide more heat than softwoods like pine and fir. Hardwoods also tend to be more expensive.
• Location Accessibility: If you have easy access to a woodlot, your costs will be lower than if you have to travel long distances to acquire wood.
• Seasonality: Firewood prices typically peak in the fall and winter, when demand is highest. Buying wood in the spring or summer can save you money.
• Equipment: The type of equipment you use (chainsaw, splitter, truck) will significantly impact your costs.
• Labor: If you hire someone to cut and split your firewood, labor costs will be a major expense.
• Permits: In some areas, you may need a permit to cut firewood on public lands.

Breaking Down the Cost Components

To get a clear picture of the cost of firewood preparation, let’s break down the individual components:

1. Timber Purchase or Harvesting Costs

• Purchasing Firewood: If you buy firewood, the price will vary depending on the type of wood, the quantity, and your location. A cord of seasoned hardwood typically costs between $200 and $400, but prices can be higher in urban areas or during peak season. I’ve seen prices in some areas of New England reach as high as $500 per cord for seasoned oak.
• Harvesting Your Own Wood: If you harvest your own wood, you’ll need to factor in the cost of permits (if required), transportation, and the time it takes to fell and transport the trees. Permit fees can range from $20 to $100 per cord, depending on the location.

2. Tool Costs: Chainsaw

• Chainsaw Purchase: As we discussed earlier, the Stihl MS 170 is a great entry-level chainsaw for homeowners. New, they typically range from $200 – $250. Other models can range from $150 (for a basic electric) to upwards of $1000 for professional-grade saws.
• Chainsaw Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your chainsaw in good working order. This includes:
  • Chain Sharpening: $10-$20 per sharpening (or the cost of a sharpening kit, around $50-$100).
  • Chain Replacement: $20-$40 per chain.
  • Bar Replacement: $30-$60 per bar.
  • Spark Plug Replacement: $5-$10 per spark plug.
  • Air Filter Replacement: $5-$10 per air filter.
  • Fuel and Oil: $5-$10 per gallon (depending on the type and brand).

3. Tool Costs: Wood Splitter

• Wood Splitter Purchase: Manual wood splitters are the cheapest option, ranging from $50 to $200. Electric splitters typically cost between $300 and $800, while gas-powered splitters can range from $1000 to $3000 or more.
• Wood Splitter Rental: Renting a wood splitter can be a cost-effective option if you only need it for a short period of time. Rental rates typically range from $50 to $100 per day.
• Wood Splitter Maintenance: Gas-powered splitters require regular maintenance, including oil changes, spark plug replacement, and air filter cleaning. Electric splitters require less maintenance but may need occasional repairs.

4. Labor Wages

• Hiring Labor: If you hire someone to cut and split your firewood, labor costs will be a significant expense. Labor rates typically range from $20 to $40 per hour, depending on the location and the experience of the worker.
• Your Own Labor: Don’t forget to factor in the value of your own time. Even if you’re not paying yourself an hourly wage, your time is valuable. I’ve found that I can typically cut and split about a cord of firewood in a full day of work.

5. Transportation Costs

• Truck or Trailer: If you need to transport firewood, you’ll need a truck or trailer. The cost of fuel, maintenance, and insurance for your vehicle should be factored into your budget.
• Delivery Fees: If you have firewood delivered, delivery fees can range from $50 to $100 or more, depending on the distance.

6. Drying and Storage Costs

• Drying Time: Firewood needs to be properly seasoned (dried) before it can be burned efficiently. This typically takes 6-12 months, depending on the type of wood and the climate.
• Storage Space: You’ll need a dry, well-ventilated place to store your firewood. This could be a woodshed, a covered stack, or even a tarp.
• Tarp or Woodshed: A good quality tarp can cost $30 – $100. Building a simple woodshed can range from $500 – $2000 depending on size and materials.

Current Industry Benchmarks and Statistical Data

To put these costs into perspective, let’s look at some industry benchmarks and statistical data:

• Average Price per Cord of Firewood: As mentioned earlier, the average price per cord of seasoned hardwood ranges from $200 to $400, but prices can vary widely depending on location and seasonality.
• Fuelwood Market Rates: According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), fuelwood accounts for a small but significant portion of residential energy consumption in the United States. In 2020, fuelwood accounted for about 1.5% of total residential energy consumption.
• Timber Prices: Timber prices fluctuate depending on market conditions and the type of wood. According to the Forest Resources Association, timber prices have been relatively stable in recent years, but there have been some regional variations.

Practical Tips for Cost Optimization and Budget Management

Now that we’ve broken down the costs, let’s look at some practical tips for optimizing your budget and saving money on firewood preparation:

• Buy Wood in Bulk: Buying wood in bulk can often save you money per cord.
• Season Your Own Wood: Seasoning your own wood is cheaper than buying seasoned wood.
• Rent Equipment: Renting equipment can be more cost-effective than buying it, especially if you only need it for a short period of time.
• Share Equipment with Neighbors: Consider sharing equipment with your neighbors to reduce costs.
• Look for Free Wood: Check with local tree services or construction companies for free wood. They often have wood that they need to dispose of.
• Cut and Split Your Own Wood: Cutting and splitting your own wood can save you money on labor costs.
• Burn Efficiently: Burning wood efficiently can reduce the amount of wood you need to burn. Make sure your stove is properly maintained and that you’re using the right type of wood.
• Consider Alternative Heating Sources: In some cases, alternative heating sources like natural gas or propane may be more cost-effective than firewood.

Relevant Calculations and Formulas

Here are some relevant calculations and formulas that can help you estimate your firewood needs and costs:

• Estimating Firewood Needs: A typical home in a cold climate will use 3-5 cords of firewood per year. The exact amount will depend on the size of your home, the efficiency of your stove, and the severity of the winter.
• Calculating Volume of Logs in Board Feet: The Doyle Log Scale is a common method for estimating the volume of logs in board feet. The formula is: (Diameter - 4)^2 * Length / 16.
• Estimating Drying Time Based on Moisture Content: The drying time for firewood depends on the type of wood, the climate, and the storage conditions. As a general rule, hardwoods take longer to dry than softwoods. You can use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of your firewood. Ideally, firewood should have a moisture content of 20% or less before it is burned.

Case Studies: Budgeting for Firewood Preparation

To illustrate these concepts, let’s look at a few case studies:

Case Study 1: The Homeowner with a Small Woodlot

John owns a small woodlot on his property and wants to heat his home with firewood. He already owns a Stihl MS 170 chainsaw and a manual wood splitter.

• Costs:
  • Permit Fee: $50
  • Chainsaw Maintenance: $50
  • Fuel and Oil: $100
  • His Own Labor (5 days): $0 (but he values his time at $200/day, so $1000 opportunity cost)
• Total Costs: $200 (or $1200 including opportunity cost)
• Firewood Produced: 4 cords
• Cost per Cord: $50 (or $300 including opportunity cost)

Case Study 2: The Apartment Dweller Buying Firewood

Sarah lives in an apartment and buys firewood from a local supplier.

• Costs:
  • Firewood (2 cords): $600
  • Delivery Fee: $50
• Total Costs: $650
• Cost per Cord: $325

Case Study 3: The Logger with a Commercial Operation

Mark operates a small logging business and sells firewood to local customers.

• Costs:
  • Timber Purchase: $200 per cord
  • Chainsaw and Splitter Maintenance: $100 per cord
  • Labor (Cutting, Splitting, and Delivering): $150 per cord
  • Transportation: $50 per cord
• Total Costs: $500 per cord
• Selling Price: $700 per cord
• Profit Margin: $200 per cord

Challenges Faced by Small-Scale Loggers and Firewood Suppliers

Small-scale loggers and firewood suppliers face a number of challenges, including:

• Fluctuating Timber Prices: Timber prices can fluctuate depending on market conditions, making it difficult to plan ahead.
• Competition from Larger Operations: Larger logging operations often have lower costs and can undercut the prices of smaller suppliers.
• Regulations and Permits: Logging is subject to a variety of regulations and permit requirements, which can be costly and time-consuming.
• Weather Conditions: Logging and firewood preparation are weather-dependent activities, and bad weather can disrupt operations.
• Finding Reliable Labor: Finding reliable labor can be a challenge, especially in rural areas.

Actionable Takeaways and Next Steps

If you’re planning a wood processing or firewood project, here are some actionable takeaways and next steps:

• Assess Your Needs: Determine how much firewood you’ll need and what type of wood is best for your stove.
• Evaluate Your Resources: Consider your access to wood, your equipment, and your labor resources.
• Create a Budget: Develop a detailed budget that includes all of the cost components discussed in this guide.
• Shop Around: Compare prices from different suppliers and equipment rental companies.
• Start Early: Start preparing your firewood well in advance of the heating season to ensure that it is properly seasoned.
• Stay Safe: Always follow safety precautions when working with chainsaws and wood splitters.

Conclusion: The Warmth of Wisdom

Preparing firewood can be a rewarding experience, providing both warmth and a sense of accomplishment. By understanding the costs involved and following these tips, you can make informed decisions and optimize your budget. Whether you’re a homeowner heating your home with wood or a small-scale logger running a business, careful planning and cost management are essential for success. So, grab your chainsaw, sharpen your axe, and get ready to embrace the warmth of wisdom.

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