MS170 Stihl Chainsaw: Essential Woodcutting Tips (5 Pro Hacks)

Let’s dive into the world of woodcutting, armed with the venerable MS170 Stihl chainsaw. What makes this little powerhouse unique, you ask? It’s not the biggest or the baddest saw out there, but it’s the perfect entry point for homeowners, hobbyists, and anyone looking to tackle smaller woodcutting tasks without breaking the bank or their backs. The MS170 is like that reliable friend who’s always there when you need a hand, whether it’s trimming branches, felling small trees, or bucking firewood. This article isn’t just about using the MS170; it’s about understanding it, respecting it, and unlocking its full potential with five pro-level hacks that will elevate your woodcutting game.

Understanding the User Intent

The user intent behind “MS170 Stihl Chainsaw: Essential Woodcutting Tips (5 Pro Hacks)” is primarily informational and practical. The user wants to learn how to effectively and safely use an MS170 Stihl chainsaw for woodcutting tasks. They are likely looking for:

• Specific guidance on using the MS170.
• Actionable tips to improve their woodcutting skills.
• Professional techniques to enhance efficiency and safety.
• Practical advice applicable to real-world scenarios.
• Information on chainsaw maintenance and best practices.

The user is likely a homeowner, hobbyist, or someone new to using chainsaws, seeking to gain confidence and expertise in operating the MS170. They may also be looking for ways to troubleshoot common problems or optimize their woodcutting workflow.

MS170 Stihl Chainsaw: Essential Woodcutting Tips (5 Pro Hacks)

My First Chainsaw: A Love Story (and a Few Close Calls)

I remember the day I got my first chainsaw. It wasn’t an MS170, but a much larger, more intimidating beast. I was green, eager, and woefully unprepared. Let’s just say my initial attempts at felling a small pine tree resembled a comedy routine more than a controlled logging operation. Branches went flying in unexpected directions, the chain kept binding, and I nearly took out the neighbor’s prized rhododendron. It was a humbling experience, but one that taught me the importance of respect, preparation, and proper technique. The MS170, in contrast, is far more forgiving, making it an excellent learning tool, but that doesn’t mean you can skip the fundamentals.

Wood Science 101: Knowing Your Enemy (or Friend)

Before we even think about firing up the MS170, let’s talk about wood. Understanding the properties of different types of wood is crucial for safe and efficient cutting.

• Hardwood vs. Softwood: This isn’t just about how hard the wood feels. Hardwoods (like oak, maple, and ash) are generally denser, slower-growing, and have a more complex cellular structure than softwoods (like pine, fir, and spruce). This means hardwoods require more power to cut and can dull your chain faster.
• Moisture Content: Freshly cut “green” wood can be up to 50% water by weight. This makes it heavier, harder to split, and more prone to warping and cracking as it dries. Seasoned wood, with a moisture content of 20% or less, is ideal for firewood.
• Grain Direction: Wood has a natural grain, which runs along the length of the tree. Cutting with the grain is generally easier than cutting against it. Understanding grain direction is especially important when felling trees to control where they fall.

Data Point: A study by the U.S. Forest Service found that hardwoods, on average, have a density of 40-70 lbs/cubic foot when dry, while softwoods range from 25-40 lbs/cubic foot. This difference in density directly impacts cutting effort and chain wear.

Hack #1: Master the Art of Chain Sharpening

A dull chain is a dangerous chain. It forces you to apply more pressure, increasing the risk of kickback and making the saw work harder. A sharp chain bites into the wood effortlessly, making cutting safer, faster, and more enjoyable.

• The Anatomy of a Chainsaw Tooth: Each tooth has a cutter and a depth gauge (also known as a raker). The cutter does the actual cutting, while the depth gauge controls how much wood the cutter takes with each pass.
• Sharpening Tools: You’ll need a round file (typically 5/32″ for the MS170), a flat file, a file guide, and a vise or clamp to hold the saw steady.
• The Sharpening Process:
  1. Secure the Saw: Clamp the chainsaw bar in a vise or use a stump vise.
  2. Use a File Guide: The file guide helps you maintain the correct angle and depth while sharpening.
  3. File the Cutters: Place the round file in the cutter at the correct angle (usually marked on the file guide) and file from the inside out, following the original angle of the cutter. Use smooth, even strokes.
  4. File the Depth Gauges: Use the flat file and a depth gauge tool to file the depth gauges to the correct height. This is crucial for preventing kickback.
  5. Check Your Work: After sharpening, the cutters should all be the same length and have a sharp, consistent edge.

Pro Tip: Invest in a chainsaw sharpening kit that includes all the necessary tools and a detailed instruction manual. Practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempts aren’t perfect.

Personal Story: I used to dread sharpening my chainsaw chain. It seemed like a tedious and time-consuming chore. But once I learned the proper technique and invested in good-quality tools, it became a satisfying part of my woodcutting routine. Now, I can sharpen a chain in about 15 minutes, and the difference in performance is night and day.

Hack #2: Perfecting Your Cutting Techniques

Using the right cutting techniques not only makes the job easier but also significantly improves safety. The MS170 might be small, but it still packs a punch, and improper use can lead to serious injury.

• Stance and Grip: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, with one foot slightly ahead of the other. Grip the saw firmly with both hands, keeping your thumbs wrapped around the handles. This gives you maximum control and stability.
• Starting the Saw: Place the saw on the ground, with the chain brake engaged. Place your foot firmly on the rear handle and pull the starter cord with a smooth, controlled motion. Once the saw starts, disengage the chain brake.
• Basic Cuts:
  • Bucking: Cutting a log into shorter lengths. Use a sawhorse to support the log and avoid cutting into the ground.
  • Limbing: Removing branches from a felled tree. Work from the base of the tree towards the top, cutting on the opposite side of the branch from where you’re standing.
  • Felling (Small Trees): This requires careful planning and execution. Make a notch cut on the side of the tree you want it to fall towards, followed by a back cut on the opposite side, leaving a hinge of wood to control the fall.

Diagram: (Imagine a simple diagram here showing the notch cut and back cut for felling a tree, with the hinge clearly marked.)

Safety First: Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet with a face shield, hearing protection, gloves, and chaps. Never cut above shoulder height, and be aware of your surroundings.

Case Study: A study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) found that a significant percentage of chainsaw injuries are caused by kickback. Proper cutting techniques and a sharp chain can significantly reduce the risk of kickback.

Hack #3: Fuel and Maintenance: Keeping Your MS170 Running Smoothly

The MS170 is a simple machine, but like any engine, it needs proper fuel and maintenance to perform optimally.

• Fuel Mixture: The MS170 requires a 50:1 fuel mixture, meaning 50 parts gasoline to 1 part 2-cycle engine oil. Use high-quality gasoline with an octane rating of 89 or higher and a premium 2-cycle engine oil specifically designed for air-cooled engines.
• Chain Oil: Use a high-quality bar and chain oil to lubricate the chain and bar. This reduces friction, prevents overheating, and extends the life of the chain and bar.
• Air Filter: Clean the air filter regularly to prevent dirt and debris from entering the engine. A clogged air filter can reduce power and fuel efficiency.
• Spark Plug: Inspect the spark plug regularly and replace it if it’s fouled or damaged.
• Chain Tension: Check the chain tension before each use and adjust as needed. A loose chain can derail, while a tight chain can overheat and break.

Data Point: Using the correct fuel mixture is crucial for preventing engine damage. A lean mixture (too little oil) can cause the engine to overheat and seize, while a rich mixture (too much oil) can foul the spark plug and reduce power.

Practical Tip: Always mix fuel in a separate container, using a fuel-mixing ratio bottle to ensure the correct proportions. Avoid mixing fuel directly in the chainsaw’s fuel tank.

Hack #4: Mastering the Art of the Bore Cut

The bore cut is an advanced technique that allows you to remove a section of wood from the middle of a log without cutting through the entire log. This is useful for felling larger trees or removing stubborn branches.

• The Process:
  1. Make a Pilot Hole: Start by making a small pilot hole with the tip of the bar, angling the saw slightly downwards.
  2. Enlarge the Hole: Gradually enlarge the hole by moving the tip of the bar back and forth, being careful not to pinch the bar.
  3. Cut Out the Section: Once the hole is large enough, you can start cutting out the section of wood you want to remove.

Warning: The bore cut can be dangerous if not performed correctly. Kickback is a significant risk, so be sure to use a sharp chain and maintain a firm grip on the saw.

Diagram: (Imagine a diagram here showing the steps involved in performing a bore cut, with arrows indicating the direction of movement of the saw.)

When to Use It: I find the bore cut invaluable when dealing with trees that have a tendency to barber chair (split upwards during felling). By using a bore cut to create a hinge point, I can control the direction of the fall and prevent the tree from splitting unexpectedly.

Hack #5: Firewood Seasoning: Turning Green Wood into Gold

Cutting firewood is just the first step. To get the most heat out of your firewood, you need to season it properly.

• The Science of Seasoning: Seasoning firewood involves reducing its moisture content to 20% or less. This allows the wood to burn more efficiently and produce more heat.
• The Process:
  1. Split the Wood: Splitting the wood exposes more surface area, allowing it to dry faster.
  2. Stack the Wood: Stack the wood in a single row, off the ground, with plenty of air circulation.
  3. Cover the Wood: Cover the top of the stack with a tarp to protect it from rain and snow, but leave the sides open for ventilation.
  4. Wait Patiently: Seasoning firewood typically takes 6-12 months, depending on the type of wood and the climate.

Data Point: Seasoned firewood can produce up to 50% more heat than green firewood. This translates to significant savings on heating costs.

Practical Tip: Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of your firewood before burning it. A moisture meter is an inexpensive tool that can save you a lot of frustration.

Personal Story: I once made the mistake of burning green firewood in my wood stove. The fire was smoky, inefficient, and produced very little heat.

The MS170: More Than Just a Chainsaw

The MS170 Stihl chainsaw is more than just a tool; it’s an enabler. It empowers you to take control of your woodcutting projects, whether it’s trimming branches, felling small trees, or preparing firewood. By mastering the techniques and tips outlined in this article, you can unlock the full potential of your MS170 and enjoy the satisfaction of working with wood safely and efficiently.

Final Thoughts and Takeaways

• Safety is paramount: Always wear appropriate safety gear and follow safe cutting practices.
• A sharp chain is essential: Learn how to sharpen your chain properly and keep it in good condition.
• Understand wood properties: Knowing the difference between hardwoods and softwoods, and the importance of moisture content, will make you a more effective woodcutter.
• Practice makes perfect: Don’t be afraid to experiment and learn from your mistakes.
• Maintenance is key: Keep your MS170 properly maintained to ensure its longevity and performance.

So, grab your MS170, put on your safety gear, and get out there and start cutting! Just remember to respect the tool, respect the wood, and respect the process. Happy cutting!

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