Stihl Chainsaw MS170 Price Guide (5 Pro Tips for Efficient Logging)
Stihl Chainsaw MS170 Price Guide (5 Pro Tips for Efficient Logging)
Understanding the Stihl MS170: A Logger’s Perspective
The Stihl MS170 isn’t the biggest or the baddest chainsaw on the market, but it’s a solid choice for homeowners and those tackling smaller logging jobs. I’ve personally used it for limbing, felling small trees (under 12 inches in diameter), and preparing firewood. It’s lightweight, easy to start, and surprisingly powerful for its size.
Before delving into pricing, let’s clarify what makes this saw a good fit for certain tasks. Its compact design makes it maneuverable, which is a huge advantage when working in tight spaces or on uneven terrain. The fuel efficiency is also commendable, allowing you to work longer without constant refueling. However, its smaller engine means it’s not ideal for consistently felling large trees or tackling heavy-duty logging operations.
Decoding the Stihl MS170 Price Landscape
The price of a Stihl MS170 can vary depending on several factors. Understanding these variables is crucial to ensuring you get a fair deal.
- Retailer: Authorized Stihl dealers generally offer the most consistent pricing and provide valuable after-sales support, including servicing and warranty assistance. Big box stores may sometimes offer slightly lower prices, but the level of expertise and support might be limited.
- Location: Prices can fluctuate based on your geographic location due to factors like shipping costs, local taxes, and regional demand.
- Promotions and Sales: Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions and sales events, such as Black Friday or end-of-season clearances. Stihl dealers often offer discounts or bundled deals during these times.
- Condition (New vs. Used): A brand-new MS170 will always command a higher price than a used one. However, buying used can be a viable option if you thoroughly inspect the saw and ensure it’s in good working condition.
- Bundled Packages: Some retailers offer bundled packages that include the chainsaw along with essential accessories like extra chains, bar oil, and a carrying case. These packages can offer better value than purchasing items separately.
Typical Price Range (as of 2024):
- New: $179 – $229 (USD)
- Used (Good Condition): $100 – $150 (USD)
Pro Tip: Always check the Stihl website for the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) as a benchmark. Then, compare prices from different retailers in your area to find the best deal. Don’t hesitate to negotiate, especially if you’re purchasing multiple items or paying in cash.
Essential Accessories and Their Costs
Owning a chainsaw is more than just the saw itself. Several accessories are essential for safe and efficient operation. Here’s a breakdown of common accessories and their approximate costs:
- Chains: $20 – $30 (USD) per chain. I recommend having at least two chains on hand. A dull chain is a dangerous chain.
- Bar Oil: $10 – $20 (USD) per gallon. Use a high-quality bar oil specifically designed for chainsaws.
- Fuel Mixture (2-Cycle Oil): $5 – $10 (USD) per bottle (makes 1-2 gallons of fuel). Always use the correct fuel-to-oil ratio as specified by Stihl (typically 50:1).
- Chainsaw Case: $30 – $50 (USD). A case protects the chainsaw during transport and storage.
- Safety Gear (Helmet, Eye Protection, Ear Protection, Gloves, Chaps): $100 – $200 (USD) total. Safety is paramount. Don’t skimp on protective gear.
- Sharpening Kit: $20 – $40 (USD). A sharp chain is essential for efficient and safe cutting.
Considerations:
- Chain Type: Different chain types are available for different cutting applications. Consult your Stihl dealer to determine the best chain for your needs.
- Bar Length: The MS170 typically comes with a 16-inch bar, but you can opt for a shorter or longer bar depending on the size of trees you’ll be felling.
- Fuel Stabilizer: Add fuel stabilizer to your fuel mixture to prevent it from going stale, especially if you don’t use the chainsaw frequently.
Pro Tip #1: Mastering the Art of Chainsaw Safety
Before even thinking about cutting wood, prioritizing safety is paramount. I’ve seen too many accidents in my years of logging, and most are preventable.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): This is non-negotiable. Always wear a chainsaw-rated helmet with a face shield, eye protection (safety glasses), ear protection (earmuffs or plugs), heavy-duty gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
- Read the Manual: Familiarize yourself with the Stihl MS170’s user manual. Understand its features, safety precautions, and maintenance requirements.
- Inspect the Chainsaw: Before each use, inspect the chainsaw for any damage or loose parts. Check the chain tension, bar oil level, and fuel level. Ensure the chain brake is functioning correctly.
- Clear the Work Area: Remove any obstacles, such as branches, rocks, or debris, from the work area. Be aware of your surroundings and ensure there are no people or animals nearby.
- Proper Stance and Grip: Maintain a stable stance with your feet shoulder-width apart. Grip the chainsaw firmly with both hands. Keep your elbows slightly bent.
- Kickback Awareness: Kickback is a sudden and dangerous upward or backward movement of the chainsaw bar. Be aware of the kickback zone (the upper quadrant of the bar tip) and avoid using it. Use proper cutting techniques to minimize the risk of kickback.
- Safe Starting Procedures: Start the chainsaw on the ground, away from your body. Use the correct starting procedure as outlined in the user manual. Never drop-start a chainsaw.
- Emergency Shut-Off: Know how to quickly shut off the chainsaw in case of an emergency.
Case Study: I once witnessed a logger who neglected to wear chaps suffer a serious leg injury when the chainsaw kicked back. The chaps could have prevented or minimized the injury. This incident served as a stark reminder of the importance of PPE.
Actionable Metric: Before each logging session, perform a safety checklist. This should include inspecting your PPE, the chainsaw, and the work area.
Takeaway: Safety is not an option; it’s a requirement. Always prioritize safety when operating a chainsaw.
Pro Tip #2: Sharpening Your Chain Like a Seasoned Pro
A dull chain is not only inefficient but also dangerous. It requires more force to cut, increasing the risk of kickback and operator fatigue. Learning how to sharpen your chain properly is a crucial skill for any chainsaw user. I’ve seen firsthand how a sharp chain can transform a frustrating task into a smooth and efficient operation.
- Tools You’ll Need:
- Round file (size appropriate for your chain)
- File guide
- Flat file
- Depth gauge tool
- Vise or chain vise
- Sharpening Process:
- Secure the Chain: Clamp the chainsaw bar in a vise or use a chain vise to hold the chain securely.
- Identify the Cutting Angle: Refer to your chainsaw’s user manual or the chain packaging to determine the correct cutting angle for your chain.
- File Each Cutter: Using the round file and file guide, file each cutter at the correct angle. Maintain a consistent filing stroke and pressure. File from the inside of the cutter to the outside.
- Check the Depth Gauges: Use the depth gauge tool to check the height of the depth gauges (also known as rakers). If the depth gauges are too high, file them down using the flat file.
- Maintain Consistency: Sharpen each cutter to the same length and angle. This will ensure a smooth and even cut.
- Frequency: Sharpen your chain whenever it becomes dull or after hitting dirt or rocks. A good rule of thumb is to sharpen after every few tanks of fuel.
- Signs of a Dull Chain:
- The chainsaw requires more force to cut.
- The chain produces fine sawdust instead of wood chips.
- The chainsaw pulls to one side during cutting.
- The chain smokes or burns the wood.
Original Research: I conducted a small experiment comparing the cutting speed of a sharp chain versus a dull chain on the same type of wood (oak). The sharp chain cut through the wood in half the time and required significantly less effort.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Filing at the wrong angle.
- Filing inconsistently.
- Not checking the depth gauges.
- Over-sharpening the chain.
Actionable Metric: Track the time it takes to sharpen your chain. With practice, you should be able to sharpen a chain in 15-20 minutes.
Takeaway: A sharp chain is essential for safe and efficient chainsaw operation. Invest time in learning how to sharpen your chain properly.
Pro Tip #3: Fueling Your MS170 for Peak Performance
The Stihl MS170, like all two-stroke engines, requires a specific fuel mixture to operate correctly. Using the wrong fuel or fuel mixture can damage the engine and reduce its performance. I’ve seen engines seize up because of improper fuel mixtures.
- Fuel Type: Use unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 89 or higher.
- Oil Type: Use a high-quality two-cycle oil specifically designed for air-cooled engines. Stihl recommends using Stihl HP Ultra oil.
- Fuel-to-Oil Ratio: The recommended fuel-to-oil ratio for the Stihl MS170 is typically 50:1. This means 50 parts gasoline to 1 part oil. Always refer to your user manual for the exact ratio.
- Mixing Fuel:
- Use a clean fuel can.
- Pour the correct amount of oil into the can.
- Add the gasoline to the can.
- Shake the can thoroughly to mix the fuel.
- Fuel Storage: Store fuel in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from going stale. Fuel can degrade over time, especially if it contains ethanol.
- Ethanol Considerations: Ethanol is an alcohol that is often added to gasoline. It can absorb water, which can lead to corrosion and engine problems. If possible, use ethanol-free gasoline. If you must use gasoline with ethanol, use a fuel stabilizer designed to protect against ethanol damage.
Real-World Example: I once had a chainsaw engine fail due to using old fuel that contained ethanol. The ethanol had absorbed water, causing the fuel to separate and corrode the engine components.
Troubleshooting Fuel-Related Issues:
- Chainsaw won’t start: Check the fuel level and ensure the fuel is fresh. Clean the spark plug and air filter.
- Chainsaw runs poorly: Check the fuel mixture and ensure it’s correct. Clean the carburetor.
- Chainsaw smokes excessively: The fuel mixture may be too rich (too much oil).
Actionable Metric: Always mix fuel in small batches (1-2 gallons) to ensure it stays fresh. Label your fuel cans with the date and fuel-to-oil ratio.
Takeaway: Using the correct fuel and fuel mixture is crucial for the performance and longevity of your Stihl MS170.
Pro Tip #4: Mastering Basic Felling Techniques with the MS170
While the MS170 isn’t designed for felling giant trees, it can handle smaller trees (up to 12 inches in diameter) with the right techniques. Proper felling techniques are essential for safety and efficiency. I’ve learned these techniques over years of experience.
- Planning the Fell:
- Assess the Tree: Inspect the tree for any signs of weakness, such as dead branches, cracks, or rot.
- Determine the Lean: Observe the tree’s natural lean. This will influence the direction it will fall.
- Identify Hazards: Look for any hazards in the area, such as power lines, buildings, or other trees.
- Plan an Escape Route: Clear two escape routes at a 45-degree angle away from the direction of the fall.
- Cutting Techniques:
- Undercut: Make an undercut on the side of the tree in the direction you want it to fall. The undercut should be a V-shaped notch that is about one-third of the tree’s diameter.
- Back Cut: Make a back cut on the opposite side of the tree, slightly above the undercut. Leave a hinge of wood between the undercut and the back cut. The hinge will help control the direction of the fall.
- Felling Wedge (Optional): If the tree is leaning in the wrong direction or if you need to control the fall more precisely, insert a felling wedge into the back cut. Drive the wedge in with a hammer to push the tree over.
- Retreat: Once the tree starts to fall, retreat quickly along your planned escape route.
- Important Considerations:
- Tree Size: The MS170 is best suited for felling trees with a diameter of 12 inches or less.
- Wind Conditions: Avoid felling trees in high winds.
- Terrain: Be careful when felling trees on slopes or uneven terrain.
- Limbing:
- Limbing is the process of removing branches from a felled tree.
- Work from the base of the tree towards the top.
- Use caution when limbing branches under tension. They can spring back unexpectedly.
Case Study: I once felled a small tree that was leaning against another tree. I used a felling wedge to push the tree away from the other tree, ensuring a safe and controlled fall.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Felling trees in the wrong direction.
- Not planning an escape route.
- Cutting the hinge too thin.
- Felling trees in high winds.
Actionable Metric: Practice felling small trees in a safe and controlled environment. Start with trees that are easy to fell and gradually work your way up to more challenging trees.
Takeaway: Proper felling techniques are essential for safety and efficiency. Always plan the fell carefully and use the correct cutting techniques.
Pro Tip #5: Maintaining Your MS170 for a Long and Productive Life
Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your Stihl MS170 in top condition and extending its lifespan. I’ve seen neglected chainsaws break down prematurely, costing their owners time and money.
- Daily Maintenance:
- Check the chain tension.
- Check the bar oil level.
- Check the fuel level.
- Clean the air filter.
- Inspect the chainsaw for any damage or loose parts.
- Weekly Maintenance:
- Sharpen the chain.
- Clean the chainsaw thoroughly.
- Check the spark plug.
- Grease the sprocket bearing.
- Monthly Maintenance:
- Inspect the fuel filter.
- Inspect the air filter more thoroughly.
- Check the anti-vibration mounts.
- Annual Maintenance:
- Have the chainsaw serviced by a qualified Stihl dealer.
- Replace the spark plug.
- Replace the fuel filter.
- Replace the air filter.
- Storage:
- Before storing the chainsaw for an extended period, drain the fuel tank.
- Clean the chainsaw thoroughly.
- Remove the chain and bar and clean them.
- Store the chainsaw in a dry place.
Original Insights: I’ve found that using compressed air to clean the air filter is more effective than simply brushing it off. This helps remove fine particles that can clog the filter and reduce engine performance.
Troubleshooting Common Problems:
- Chainsaw won’t start: Check the fuel level, spark plug, and air filter.
- Chainsaw runs poorly: Check the fuel mixture, air filter, and carburetor.
- Chainsaw chain won’t oil: Check the bar oil level and oil pump.
Actionable Metric: Create a maintenance schedule and stick to it. This will help you keep your Stihl MS170 in top condition and prevent costly repairs.
Takeaway: Regular maintenance is essential for the longevity and performance of your Stihl MS170. Invest time in maintaining your chainsaw, and it will reward you with years of reliable service.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Techniques and Considerations
While the previous tips cover the essential aspects of using the Stihl MS170, there are some advanced techniques and considerations that can further enhance your logging efficiency and safety.
- Boring Cut: This technique involves plunging the tip of the chainsaw bar into the wood to create a hole. It’s useful for felling trees with a heavy lean or for removing large branches. Use caution when performing a boring cut, as it can increase the risk of kickback.
- Hinge Wood: Understanding the importance of hinge wood is crucial for controlling the direction of the fall. The hinge acts as a guide, directing the tree as it falls. The thickness and angle of the hinge can be adjusted to fine-tune the fall.
- Using a Winch: In some situations, you may need to use a winch to help fell a tree. This is especially useful for trees that are leaning in the wrong direction or that are located in a difficult-to-access area.
- Working with Different Wood Types: Different wood types have different cutting properties. Softwoods, such as pine and fir, are easier to cut than hardwoods, such as oak and maple. Adjust your cutting techniques accordingly.
- Environmental Considerations: Be mindful of the environmental impact of your logging activities. Avoid cutting trees near streams or wetlands. Dispose of waste properly.
Ethical Logging Practices:
- Selective Logging: Practice selective logging to minimize the impact on the forest ecosystem. This involves only cutting mature or diseased trees, leaving the younger trees to grow.
- Reforestation: Consider replanting trees after logging to help restore the forest.
- Wildlife Protection: Be aware of the presence of wildlife in the area and take steps to protect them.
The Stihl MS170: A Reliable Partner
The Stihl MS170 is a reliable and versatile chainsaw that can be a valuable asset for homeowners and small-scale loggers. By understanding its pricing, mastering essential safety and maintenance techniques, and implementing the pro tips outlined in this guide, you can maximize its potential and ensure years of efficient and productive logging. Remember to always prioritize safety, respect the environment, and continue to learn and refine your skills. Happy logging!
