Stihl 170 MS Chainsaw Review (Compact Power for Firewood Pros)

Stihl MS 170 Chainsaw Review: Compact Power for Firewood Pros (and Budget-Conscious Homeowners!)

Let’s be honest, folks. The world of chainsaws can feel like navigating a dense forest of technical jargon, engine sizes, and hefty price tags. But what if you’re not felling giant redwoods? What if your primary mission is to keep your home warm with a steady supply of firewood, or maybe just tackle some occasional limbing and storm cleanup? That’s where the Stihl MS 170 comes into the picture. It’s the chainsaw equivalent of a reliable, fuel-efficient compact car – practical, affordable, and surprisingly capable.

Understanding the User Intent: Who is This Chainsaw For?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s clarify the core intent behind the “Stihl MS 170 Chainsaw Review (Compact Power for Firewood Pros)” search query. The user is likely:

• Looking for an affordable chainsaw: Price is a major factor. They want value for money.
• Interested in firewood preparation: This is their primary use case, not professional logging.
• Seeking a compact and lightweight option: They prioritize maneuverability and ease of use, especially for smaller tasks.
• Considering Stihl as a brand: They likely recognize Stihl’s reputation for quality and reliability.
• Looking for a review that balances performance and cost: They want to know if the MS 170 is “good enough” for their needs.
• Potentially a homeowner or hobbyist: Not necessarily a professional logger, but someone who needs a chainsaw for domestic use.
• Interested in long-term ownership costs: They want to understand fuel consumption, maintenance requirements, and potential repair costs.

A Personal Introduction: My Firewood Journey and the Allure of Small Chainsaws

My journey into the world of firewood started with a borrowed, behemoth of a chainsaw. It was powerful, sure, but also incredibly heavy, intimidating, and overkill for the small-diameter trees I was felling for my own winter supply. I quickly realized that bigger isn’t always better, especially when you’re spending hours processing wood.

That experience led me to appreciate the appeal of smaller, more manageable chainsaws like the Stihl MS 170. They’re easier to handle, less tiring to use, and, crucially, far more affordable. I’ve used similar models from different brands for years, and I’ve learned firsthand what makes a good small chainsaw a valuable asset for the home firewood enthusiast.

The Stihl MS 170: A Closer Look at the Specs

Let’s start with the basics. The Stihl MS 170 is a lightweight, gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for homeowners and occasional users. Here’s a rundown of its key specifications:

• Engine Displacement: 30.1 cc (1.84 cu. in.)
• Engine Power: 1.3 kW (1.7 bhp)
• Weight (Powerhead Only): 4.1 kg (9.0 lbs)
• Guide Bar Lengths (Recommended): 12″, 14″, 16″
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 0.25 L (8.5 oz)
• Oil Tank Capacity: 0.15 L (5.1 oz)
• Chain Oil System: Ematic System
• Chain Brake: QuickStop
• Anti-Vibration System: Single-spring system

These specs tell a story. The relatively small engine displacement and low weight point to a chainsaw designed for lighter tasks. The Ematic chain oil system aims to reduce oil consumption, while the QuickStop chain brake is a crucial safety feature.

Performance in the Field: Does the MS 170 Live Up to the Hype?

The burning question: how does the MS 170 perform in real-world firewood preparation?

Pros:

• Lightweight and Maneuverable: This is its biggest strength. It’s easy to handle for extended periods, reducing fatigue. This is especially important for beginners or those with limited physical strength.
• Easy to Start: Stihl’s starting system is generally reliable, even in colder weather.
• Good for Small-Diameter Wood: It excels at cutting branches, small trees, and logs up to 8-10 inches in diameter.
• Affordable: It’s one of the most budget-friendly chainsaws in Stihl’s lineup.
• Reliable (Generally): Stihl has a reputation for quality, and the MS 170 is generally considered a reliable saw, provided it’s properly maintained.

Cons:

• Limited Power: It struggles with larger logs (over 10 inches). Forcing it can damage the engine and reduce its lifespan.
• Not Ideal for Heavy Use: It’s not designed for continuous, professional-level use.
• Basic Features: It lacks some of the advanced features found on more expensive models, such as tool-less chain tensioning.
• Vibration: The single-spring anti-vibration system is less effective than the multi-point systems found on higher-end saws. This can lead to hand fatigue during prolonged use.
• Plastic Housing: While durable enough for light use, the plastic housing is less robust than the magnesium housings found on professional saws.

My Experience:

I’ve used similar saws (around the 30cc mark) for years to process firewood from fallen trees on my property. I primarily cut hardwoods like oak, maple, and ash, typically in diameters of 6-8 inches. The MS 170, based on its specs and user reviews, would be perfectly suited for this type of work. However, I wouldn’t attempt to fell large trees or process huge logs with it. That’s a recipe for frustration and potential damage to the saw.

User Feedback:

Online reviews paint a similar picture. Many users praise its lightweight design and ease of use, particularly for homeowners cutting firewood or cleaning up after storms. However, some complain about its lack of power when dealing with larger logs or hardwoods.

The Verdict:

The Stihl MS 170 is a good choice for homeowners and hobbyists who need a lightweight, affordable chainsaw for occasional firewood preparation and other light-duty tasks. It’s not a professional logging saw, but it’s a capable tool for its intended purpose.

1. The Chainsaw Itself: Purchase Price and Financing

The Stihl MS 170 typically retails for around $199 – $249 USD, depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions. This makes it one of the most affordable chainsaws in Stihl’s lineup.

Financing Options:

While the MS 170 is relatively inexpensive, some retailers offer financing options, especially for larger purchases. However, I generally advise against financing small tools like this. The interest rates can quickly add up, making the total cost significantly higher. It’s usually better to save up and pay cash.

Used Market:

Another option is to consider buying a used MS 170. You can often find them on online marketplaces or at local pawn shops for a fraction of the price of a new one. However, be sure to inspect the saw carefully before buying it. Check for signs of damage or excessive wear, and ask the seller about its maintenance history.

2. Fuel and Oil: The Consumables

Chainsaws are thirsty machines. Fuel and oil are ongoing expenses that you need to factor into your firewood budget.

• Fuel: The MS 170 requires a mixture of gasoline and 2-cycle engine oil. The recommended ratio is typically 50:1. The cost of gasoline varies depending on your location, but you can expect to pay around $3-$5 per gallon. Good quality 2-cycle oil costs around $10-$20 per quart. I always recommend using premium fuel with no ethanol. Ethanol can damage the small engine components.
• Chain Oil: Chain oil is essential for lubricating the chain and guide bar. A gallon of good-quality chain oil typically costs around $15-$30. Look for bar and chain oil specifically designed for chainsaws.

Fuel Consumption:

The MS 170 is relatively fuel-efficient, but fuel consumption still adds up over time. I’ve found that a typical user can expect to go through about 1-2 gallons of fuel per cord of firewood processed, depending on the size and type of wood.

Calculating Fuel Costs:

Let’s say you plan to cut 5 cords of firewood this year. Assuming a fuel cost of $4 per gallon and a 2-cycle oil cost of $15 per quart (mixed at 50:1), your fuel expenses would be:

• Gasoline: 5 cords x 1.5 gallons/cord x $4/gallon = $30
• 2-cycle oil: 5 cords x 1.5 gallons/cord / 50 = 0.15 gallons of oil or .6 quarts of oil. .6 Quarts of oil*$15= $9
• Total fuel and oil cost: $30 + $9 = $39

Chain Oil Costs:

Assuming you use 1 gallon of chain oil per 2 cords of firewood, your chain oil costs would be:

• 5 cords / 2 cords/gallon x $20/gallon = $50

Total Fuel and Oil Costs:

Adding the fuel and chain oil costs together, your total fuel and oil expenses for 5 cords of firewood would be:

• $39 + $50 = $89

3. Maintenance and Repairs: Keeping Your Saw Running Smoothly

Like any mechanical device, chainsaws require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly. Neglecting maintenance can lead to costly repairs down the road.

• Chain Sharpening: A dull chain is not only inefficient but also dangerous. You can sharpen the chain yourself using a file or a chain grinder, or you can take it to a professional. Professional sharpening typically costs around $10-$20 per chain. I prefer to sharpen my own chains using a file – it’s a valuable skill to learn.
• Air Filter Cleaning: A dirty air filter restricts airflow to the engine, reducing performance. Clean the air filter regularly with soap and water. Replacement air filters cost around $5-$10.
• Spark Plug Replacement: Replace the spark plug annually or as needed. Spark plugs cost around $5-$10.
• Chain and Bar Replacement: Chains and bars wear out over time and need to be replaced. A new chain for the MS 170 typically costs around $20-$30, while a new bar costs around $30-$50.
• Carburetor Adjustments: Carburetor adjustments ensure the proper air-fuel mixture. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, take it to a qualified mechanic.
• Professional Repairs: Major repairs, such as engine rebuilds, can be expensive. It’s often more cost-effective to replace the saw if it requires extensive repairs.

Maintenance Schedule:

Here’s a recommended maintenance schedule for the Stihl MS 170:

• Daily: Check chain tension, sharpen chain, clean air filter, check fuel and oil levels.
• Weekly: Clean the chainsaw thoroughly, inspect the bar and chain for wear.
• Monthly: Replace the spark plug, inspect the fuel filter, lubricate the clutch bearing.
• Annually: Have the carburetor adjusted by a qualified mechanic (if needed).

Estimating Maintenance Costs:

Let’s assume you sharpen your chain twice a year, replace the air filter annually, and replace the chain every two years. Here’s an estimate of your annual maintenance costs:

• Chain sharpening (2 x $15): $30
• Air filter replacement: $8
• Chain replacement (every 2 years): $25/2 = $12.50 (averaged over 2 years)

Total Annual Maintenance Costs: $30 + $8 + $12.50 = $50.50

4. Safety Gear: Protecting Yourself from Injury

Safety gear is non-negotiable when operating a chainsaw. Don’t even think about cutting wood without the proper protection.

• Chainsaw Chaps: These protect your legs from accidental cuts. Good-quality chaps cost around $80-$150.
• Hearing Protection: Chainsaws are loud. Wear earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing. Hearing protection costs around $10-$30.
• Eye Protection: Flying debris can cause serious eye injuries. Wear safety glasses or a face shield. Eye protection costs around $5-$20.
• Gloves: Gloves protect your hands from cuts and abrasions. Chainsaw gloves with reinforced palms cost around $20-$40.
• Helmet: A helmet provides head protection in case of falling branches or kickback. A chainsaw helmet with a face shield and hearing protection costs around $50-$100.
• Steel-Toed Boots: Protect your feet from falling logs and accidental cuts. Steel-toed boots cost around $80-$150.

Calculating Safety Gear Costs:

Let’s assume you invest in a good set of safety gear:

• Chainsaw chaps: $100
• Hearing protection: $20
• Eye protection: $10
• Gloves: $30
• Helmet: $75
• Steel-toed boots: $100

Total Safety Gear Costs: $100 + $20 + $10 + $30 + $75 + $100 = $335

While this is a significant upfront investment, safety gear can last for many years with proper care. Let’s amortize this cost over 5 years:

• Annual Safety Gear Cost: $335 / 5 years = $67 per year

5. Labor Costs: Your Time is Valuable

If you’re cutting your own firewood, you’re essentially providing your own labor. It’s important to factor in the value of your time when calculating the true cost of firewood.

• Time Spent: Consider the time it takes to fell the trees, buck them into logs, split the wood, stack it, and dry it. This can easily add up to dozens of hours per cord.
• Opportunity Cost: What else could you be doing with that time? Could you be earning money at your regular job, spending time with your family, or pursuing other hobbies?

Estimating Labor Costs:

Let’s say it takes you 20 hours to process one cord of firewood, from felling to stacking. If you value your time at $20 per hour (a reasonable estimate for many people), your labor cost per cord would be:

• Labor Cost: 20 hours x $20/hour = $400 per cord

This is a significant cost! It highlights the fact that cutting your own firewood is not always the cheapest option, especially if you have a high opportunity cost for your time.

6. Equipment Costs: Beyond the Chainsaw

While the chainsaw is the primary tool, you may need other equipment to process firewood efficiently.

• Log Splitter: Splitting wood by hand is hard work. A log splitter can make the job much easier, especially for larger logs. You can rent a log splitter for around $50-$100 per day, or you can buy one for $1,000-$3,000.
• Wedges and Sledgehammer: If you’re splitting wood by hand, you’ll need wedges and a sledgehammer. These cost around $50-$100.
• Axe: An axe is useful for splitting smaller pieces of wood and for limbing trees. A good-quality axe costs around $50-$100.
• Wheelbarrow: A wheelbarrow is essential for moving logs and firewood. A good wheelbarrow costs around $100-$200.
• Truck or Trailer: You’ll need a truck or trailer to transport the logs from the woods to your property.

Estimating Equipment Costs:

Let’s assume you rent a log splitter for 2 days per year and use your existing truck for transportation. Your annual equipment costs would be:

• Log splitter rental: 2 days x $75/day = $150

7. Permits and Fees: Check Your Local Regulations

In some areas, you may need permits to cut trees or collect firewood. Check with your local authorities to see if any permits or fees are required. These fees can vary widely depending on your location. In some areas, you might need permission from the local authorities. I would recommend checking this, because fines can be quite steep.

8. Wood Source Costs: Buying vs. Harvesting

The cost of the wood itself is a major factor in the overall cost of firewood. You have two main options:

• Buying Firewood: The average price of a cord of seasoned firewood varies depending on your location and the type of wood. You can expect to pay around $150-$400 per cord. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average price of residential firewood in the United States in 2023 was around $250 per cord.
• Harvesting Your Own: If you have access to a woodlot or can obtain permission to cut trees on private property, you can harvest your own wood. This can save you money on the cost of the wood itself, but you’ll still need to factor in the cost of transportation and your time.

Estimating Wood Source Costs:

Let’s assume you harvest your own wood and don’t have to pay for the trees themselves. However, you do need to pay for transportation. If you have to drive 50 miles round trip to collect the wood, and your truck gets 15 miles per gallon, your transportation cost per cord would be:

• Fuel Cost: 50 miles / 15 miles/gallon x $4/gallon = $13.33 per cord

9. Drying and Storage: Preparing the Firewood for Use

Firewood needs to be properly dried before it can be burned efficiently. Green wood contains a high moisture content, which makes it difficult to ignite and produces a lot of smoke.

• Drying Time: The drying time for firewood varies depending on the type of wood, the climate, and the stacking method. Generally, it takes at least 6-12 months for firewood to dry properly.
• Storage: Firewood should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated area. You can build a simple firewood shed or stack the wood on pallets and cover it with a tarp.

Estimating Drying and Storage Costs:

Let’s assume you build a simple firewood shed out of scrap lumber. The cost of the lumber is minimal, but you do need to factor in the time it takes to build the shed. Let’s say it takes you 8 hours to build the shed, and you value your time at $20 per hour. Your labor cost for building the shed would be:

• Labor Cost: 8 hours x $20/hour = $160

If the shed lasts for 10 years, your annual drying and storage cost would be:

• Chainsaw (amortized over 5 years): $225 / 5 years = $45
• Fuel and Oil: $89
• Maintenance: $50.50
• Safety Gear (amortized over 5 years): $67
• Labor: 5 cords x $400/cord = $2000
• Equipment (log splitter rental): $150
• Wood Source (transportation): 5 cords x $13.33/cord = $66.65
• Drying and Storage: $16
• Total Cost: $45 + $89 + $50.50 + $67 + $2000 + $150 + $66.65 + $16 = $2484.15

Cost Per Cord: $2484.15 / 5 cords = $496.83 per cord

This is a realistic estimate of the true cost of cutting your own firewood. As you can see, labor is the biggest expense. If you value your time highly, it may be more cost-effective to buy firewood.

Comparison to Buying Firewood:

If you were to buy 5 cords of firewood at $300 per cord, your total cost would be:

• 5 cords x $300/cord = $1500

In this scenario, buying firewood is significantly cheaper than cutting your own.

Cost Optimization Strategies: Saving Money on Firewood

While cutting your own firewood can be expensive, there are several ways to optimize your costs:

• Improve Efficiency: Learn to use your chainsaw efficiently and minimize waste.
• Sharpen Chains Regularly: A sharp chain cuts faster and requires less fuel.
• Maintain Your Equipment: Regular maintenance prevents costly repairs.
• Buy Fuel and Oil in Bulk: This can save you money in the long run.
• Harvest Wood Closer to Home: This reduces transportation costs.
• Split Wood by Hand: This eliminates the need to rent a log splitter.
• Dry Wood Properly: Properly dried wood burns more efficiently, reducing the amount of wood you need.
• Negotiate Prices: If you’re buying firewood, negotiate with the seller to get the best price.
• Consider Alternative Wood Sources: Explore options such as urban wood waste or reclaimed lumber.

The Stihl MS 170 and the Broader Market: Competitors and Alternatives

While the Stihl MS 170 is a popular choice, it’s not the only option in the compact chainsaw market. Here are some competitors and alternatives to consider:

• Husqvarna 120 Mark II: Another popular entry-level chainsaw with similar specs and features to the MS 170.
• Echo CS-310: A slightly more powerful option than the MS 170, but still relatively lightweight and affordable.
• Poulan Pro PP4218A: A budget-friendly option, but with lower build quality and reliability than the Stihl and Husqvarna models.
• Ryobi 40V Cordless Chainsaw: A cordless option that offers convenience and quiet operation, but with limited power and run time compared to gas-powered chainsaws.

Choosing the Right Chainsaw:

The best chainsaw for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. Consider the following factors:

• Frequency of Use: How often will you be using the chainsaw?
• Type of Wood: What type of wood will you be cutting?
• Log Size: What is the typical diameter of the logs you’ll be cutting?
• Budget: How much are you willing to spend on a chainsaw?
• Weight: How important is weight and maneuverability?
• Features: Do you need advanced features such as tool-less chain tensioning or an anti-vibration system?

The Future of Firewood: Trends and Innovations

The firewood industry is constantly evolving. Here are some trends and innovations to watch for:

• Increased Demand for Kiln-Dried Firewood: Kiln-dried firewood is becoming increasingly popular due to its low moisture content and high burning efficiency.
• Growing Use of Wood Pellets: Wood pellets are a renewable energy source that can be used in pellet stoves and furnaces.
• Development of More Efficient Chainsaws: Manufacturers are constantly developing more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly chainsaws.
• Adoption of Smart Technology: Smart technology is being used to monitor firewood moisture content and optimize burning efficiency.

Actionable Takeaways and Next Steps

So, you’ve reached the end of this deep dive into the Stihl MS 170 and the economics of firewood. Here are some actionable takeaways and next steps:

1. Assess Your Needs: Determine how often you’ll be using a chainsaw, the type of wood you’ll be cutting, and your budget.
2. Consider the Stihl MS 170: If you’re a homeowner or hobbyist looking for a lightweight, affordable chainsaw for occasional firewood preparation, the MS 170 is a solid option.
3. Factor in All Costs: Don’t just focus on the chainsaw price. Consider fuel, oil, maintenance, safety gear, labor, and equipment costs.
4. Optimize Your Costs: Implement cost-saving strategies such as improving efficiency, maintaining your equipment, and harvesting wood closer to home.
5. Prioritize Safety: Always wear the proper safety gear when operating a chainsaw.
6. Explore Alternatives: Consider buying firewood if you value your time highly or if you don’t have access to a woodlot.
7. Research Local Regulations: Check with your local authorities to see if any permits or fees are required for cutting trees or collecting firewood.
8. Invest in Quality Equipment: While the MS 170 is a good value, consider investing in higher-quality equipment if you plan to use a chainsaw frequently.
9. Learn from Experienced Users: Talk to experienced chainsaw users and learn from their tips and tricks.
10. Start Small: If you’re new to chainsaw operation, start with small projects and gradually increase the difficulty as you gain experience.

A Final Thought: The Enduring Appeal of Firewood

Despite the costs and challenges, there’s something deeply satisfying about heating your home with wood. It connects you to nature, provides a sense of self-reliance, and creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. While the Stihl MS 170 may not be the biggest or most powerful chainsaw on the market, it’s a reliable tool that can help you enjoy the many benefits of firewood. So, grab your chainsaw (and your safety gear!), head out to the woods, and get ready to experience the magic of fire. Just be sure to do your homework, plan your budget, and stay safe out there. Happy cutting!

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