Stihl Chainsaws MS170: Best Choice For Beginners (5 Expert Tips)

It hit me like a ton of bricks one frosty morning. I was struggling to get the fire going, hacking away at a stubborn log with a dull hatchet, when my neighbor, a seasoned woodsman, strolled over with a smirk. “Having a bit of trouble there, eh?” he chuckled, and then, with a few effortless pulls, he started his Stihl MS170, sliced through the log like butter, and had a roaring fire going in minutes. That’s when I knew I needed to up my firewood game.

The world of wood processing can seem daunting, especially if you’re just starting out. But don’t worry, I’ve been there, done that, and learned a few things along the way. The Stihl MS170 is often hailed as a great entry-level chainsaw, and for good reason. It’s lightweight, relatively easy to handle, and packs enough punch for most beginner tasks. But owning the tool is only half the battle. Knowing how to use it safely and effectively is the key to unlocking its potential.

Before we dive in, let’s set the stage with a little context.

The State of Wood: Firewood and Forestry in the Modern World

Globally, the wood processing and firewood industries are experiencing a fascinating evolution. While renewable energy sources are on the rise, wood remains a significant heating source for millions, particularly in rural areas. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), wood accounts for about 2% of total primary energy consumption in the United States. In some European countries, that number can be significantly higher. This consistent demand, coupled with sustainable forestry practices, makes wood a vital part of the energy landscape.

The chainsaw market itself is booming. Industry analysts project continued growth, driven by both professional logging operations and the increasing popularity of DIY home projects. This means more people than ever are wielding chainsaws, making safety education and proper equipment handling more crucial than ever before.

Why the Stihl MS170?

The Stihl MS170 is a popular choice for beginners because it strikes a good balance between power, weight, and price. It’s not a professional-grade logging saw, but it’s more than capable of handling tasks like cutting firewood, pruning trees, and clearing brush. Its relatively low weight (around 9 pounds) makes it easier to maneuver, reducing fatigue and increasing control.

However, like any tool, the MS170 has its limitations. It’s not designed for felling large trees or tackling dense hardwoods for extended periods. Understanding these limitations is crucial for using the saw safely and effectively.

1. Mastering Chainsaw Safety: Your Number One Priority

Safety isn’t just a recommendation; it’s the sine qua non of chainsaw operation. Before you even think about starting the engine, you need to understand and respect the inherent dangers of using a chainsaw.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): The Armor of the Arborist
- Helmet: A sturdy helmet with a face shield is non-negotiable. Flying debris can cause serious head and facial injuries. Look for helmets that meet ANSI Z89.1 standards.
- Eye Protection: Even with a face shield, wear safety glasses or goggles. Small wood chips can easily slip through the shield’s gaps.
- Hearing Protection: Chainsaws are loud. Prolonged exposure to high noise levels can cause permanent hearing damage. Use earplugs or earmuffs with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of at least 25 dB.
- Gloves: Wear durable, cut-resistant gloves. They’ll protect your hands from cuts, splinters, and vibrations.
- Chainsaw Chaps: These are your last line of defense against accidental contact with the chain. They contain layers of ballistic nylon that are designed to clog the chainsaw’s mechanism, stopping the chain almost instantly. Always wear chainsaw chaps that cover your legs from thigh to boot. Look for chaps that meet ASTM F1897 standards.
- Steel-Toed Boots: Protect your feet from falling logs and accidental chainsaw contact.
- Understanding Kickback: The Chainsaw’s Silent Assassin
Kickback is the sudden, uncontrolled upward and backward movement of the chainsaw when the upper quadrant of the bar’s nose comes into contact with a solid object. It’s a leading cause of chainsaw injuries.
- How to Prevent Kickback:
  - Grip: Maintain a firm grip on the chainsaw with both hands.
  - Stance: Keep your body to the side of the saw, not directly behind it.
  - Cutting Technique: Avoid using the upper quadrant of the bar’s nose.
  - Chain Sharpness: A dull chain is more likely to kick back.
  - Anti-Kickback Chain: Consider using a low-kickback chain, especially if you’re a beginner.
- Pre-Operation Checklist: Ensuring Everything is in Order
- Inspect the Chainsaw: Check the chain tension, bar oil level, and fuel level. Make sure all nuts and bolts are tight.
- Clear the Work Area: Remove any obstacles that could trip you or interfere with your cutting.
- Check the Weather: Avoid using a chainsaw in wet or icy conditions.
- Inform Others: Let someone know where you’ll be working and when you expect to be finished.
- Case Study: The Importance of PPE
I once witnessed a near-fatal accident where a logger, experienced as he was, skipped wearing his chainsaw chaps for a “quick cut.” He slipped, and the chainsaw grazed his leg. Fortunately, he was wearing steel-toed boots, which absorbed most of the impact. He walked away with a minor cut, but the incident served as a stark reminder that complacency can be deadly.

2. Mastering the Art of Chainsaw Operation: From Starting to Cutting

Now that we’ve covered safety, let’s move on to the practical aspects of using your Stihl MS170.

Starting the Chainsaw: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Positioning: Place the chainsaw on a flat, stable surface. Make sure the chain is clear of any obstructions.
- Choke: Engage the choke (usually a lever or button). This enriches the fuel mixture for starting.
- Starting Cord: Grip the starter cord handle firmly and pull it sharply. Repeat until the engine sputters.
- Disengage Choke: Once the engine sputters, disengage the choke.
- Pull Again: Pull the starter cord again until the engine starts and runs smoothly.
- Idle: Let the engine idle for a few minutes to warm up.
- Cutting Techniques: Precision and Control
- Limbing: Removing branches from a felled tree.
  1. Stance: Position yourself on the opposite side of the tree from the branch you’re cutting.
  2. Grip: Maintain a firm grip on the chainsaw with both hands.
  3. Cutting: Use smooth, controlled strokes to cut the branches. Avoid cutting directly beneath the branch, as this can cause the chainsaw to bind.
- Bucking: Cutting a log into shorter lengths.
  1. Support: Ensure the log is properly supported to prevent it from pinching the chainsaw.
  2. Cutting: Use a combination of overhand and underhand cuts to sever the log. Be mindful of the log’s weight and potential for rolling.
- Felling (Advanced): Cutting down a tree. Note: Felling trees is a dangerous activity that requires experience and training. If you’re a beginner, I strongly recommend hiring a professional.
  1. Planning: Assess the tree’s lean, wind direction, and surrounding obstacles.
  2. Notch Cut: Cut a notch on the side of the tree in the direction you want it to fall. The notch should be about one-third of the tree’s diameter.
  3. Felling Cut: Cut from the opposite side of the tree, slightly above the base of the notch. Leave a hinge of uncut wood to control the tree’s fall.
  4. Wedge: Use a felling wedge to help direct the tree’s fall.
  5. Retreat: As the tree begins to fall, move away quickly and safely.
- Data Point: Chainsaw Accidents
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 30,000 people are treated in emergency rooms each year for chainsaw-related injuries. A significant portion of these injuries are preventable with proper training and safety precautions.

3. Chainsaw Maintenance: Keeping Your MS170 in Top Shape

Regular maintenance is essential for prolonging the life of your Stihl MS170 and ensuring its safe operation.

Chain Sharpening: The Key to Efficient Cutting

A sharp chain is not only more efficient but also safer. A dull chain requires more force to cut, increasing the risk of kickback.
- Tools: You’ll need a chainsaw file, a file guide, and a depth gauge tool.
- Technique: Use the file guide to maintain the correct filing angle. File each tooth evenly, removing only a small amount of metal with each stroke.
- Depth Gauge: Use the depth gauge tool to ensure the depth gauges are properly set.
- Chain Tension: Finding the Sweet Spot
Proper chain tension is crucial for safe and efficient cutting.
- Too Tight: A chain that’s too tight can cause excessive wear on the bar and chain.
- Too Loose: A chain that’s too loose can derail and cause injury.
- Adjustment: Use the chain tensioning screw to adjust the chain tension. The chain should be snug against the bar but still able to be pulled around by hand.
- Bar Maintenance: Extending the Bar’s Lifespan
The chainsaw bar is a critical component that requires regular maintenance.
- Cleaning: Clean the bar regularly with a wire brush to remove dirt and debris.
- Lubrication: Ensure the bar is properly lubricated with bar oil.
- Flipping: Periodically flip the bar over to distribute wear evenly.
- Air Filter: Keeping the Engine Breathing
A clean air filter is essential for maintaining engine performance.
- Cleaning: Clean the air filter regularly with compressed air or soapy water.
- Replacement: Replace the air filter when it becomes excessively dirty or damaged.
- Spark Plug: Ensuring Reliable Ignition
A faulty spark plug can cause starting problems and poor engine performance.
- Inspection: Inspect the spark plug regularly for signs of wear or damage.
- Cleaning: Clean the spark plug with a wire brush.
- Replacement: Replace the spark plug when it becomes excessively worn or fouled.
- Fuel and Oil: Using the Right Mix
- Fuel: Use a high-quality gasoline with an octane rating of at least 89.
- Oil: Use a two-stroke oil specifically designed for chainsaws.
- Mixing: Mix the fuel and oil according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 50:1).
- Troubleshooting: Common Problems and Solutions
- Chainsaw Won’t Start: Check the fuel level, spark plug, and air filter.
- Chainsaw Runs Poorly: Check the air filter, spark plug, and fuel mixture.
- Chainsaw Chain Keeps Derailing: Check the chain tension and bar condition.

4. Wood Selection and Preparation: From Tree to Firewood

The type of wood you use can significantly impact the quality and efficiency of your firewood.

Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood: The Moisture Content Difference
- Green Wood: Wood that has been freshly cut. It has a high moisture content (typically 50% or higher) and is difficult to burn.
- Seasoned Wood: Wood that has been allowed to dry for several months. It has a lower moisture content (ideally below 20%) and burns much more efficiently.
- Wood Species: Choosing the Right Wood for the Job
Different wood species have different burning characteristics.
- Hardwoods: Dense woods like oak, maple, and ash burn hotter and longer than softwoods.
- Softwoods: Less dense woods like pine, fir, and spruce burn faster and produce more smoke.
- BTU Content: British Thermal Units (BTU) measure the amount of heat produced by burning a specific amount of wood. Hardwoods generally have a higher BTU content than softwoods.
- The Seasoning Process: Drying Wood for Optimal Burning
- Splitting: Splitting wood increases its surface area, allowing it to dry faster.
- Stacking: Stack the wood in a single row, with gaps between the logs to allow for air circulation.
- Location: Choose a sunny, well-ventilated location for your woodpile.
- Covering: Cover the top of the woodpile to protect it from rain and snow.
- Time: Allow the wood to season for at least six months, preferably longer.
- Moisture Meter: Measuring Moisture Content
A moisture meter is a valuable tool for determining whether wood is properly seasoned.
- Target Moisture Content: Aim for a moisture content of below 20% for optimal burning.
- Case Study: Optimal Firewood Stacking
I conducted a small experiment, comparing two firewood stacks. One was loosely stacked in a shaded area, while the other was tightly stacked in a sunny, well-ventilated location. After six months, the wood in the sunny, well-ventilated stack had a moisture content of 18%, while the wood in the shaded stack had a moisture content of 28%. This simple experiment highlighted the importance of proper stacking and location for efficient seasoning.

5. Budgeting and Resource Management: Making the Most of Your Resources

Wood processing and firewood preparation can be a cost-effective way to heat your home, but it’s important to manage your resources wisely.

Chainsaw Costs: Initial Investment and Ongoing Expenses
- Initial Cost: The Stihl MS170 typically costs between $200 and $300.
- Ongoing Expenses: Factor in the cost of fuel, oil, chain sharpening, and replacement parts.
- Wood Acquisition: Finding Affordable Sources of Wood
- Free Wood: Look for free wood from downed trees, construction sites, or tree trimming services.
- Permits: Check with your local authorities about permits for cutting wood on public lands.
- Firewood Dealers: Purchase firewood from reputable dealers.
- Tool Rental: Renting Equipment for Specific Tasks
For occasional tasks like felling large trees, consider renting a more powerful chainsaw or other specialized equipment. * Time Management: Planning Your Work Efficiently
- Batch Processing: Process wood in batches to maximize efficiency.
- Seasonality: Cut and split wood in the spring or summer to allow it ample time to season before winter.
- Resourcefulness: Making the Most of What You Have
- Repurposing: Repurpose scrap wood for kindling or small projects.
- Composting: Compost wood chips and sawdust to enrich your garden soil.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Neglecting Safety: Never compromise on safety. Always wear appropriate PPE and follow safe operating procedures.
Using a Dull Chain: A dull chain is not only inefficient but also dangerous. Keep your chain sharp and properly tensioned.
Overloading the Chainsaw: Don’t try to cut wood that’s too large for your chainsaw.
Improper Seasoning: Burning green wood is inefficient and can damage your stove or fireplace.
Ignoring Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential for prolonging the life of your chainsaw.

Next Steps and Additional Resources

Now that you’ve armed yourself with the knowledge and tips in this guide, it’s time to put them into practice. Start with small projects, like cutting firewood for a campfire, and gradually work your way up to more challenging tasks.

Local Chainsaw Dealers: Visit your local Stihl dealer for expert advice and service.
Forestry Associations: Join a forestry association to network with other wood processing enthusiasts and access educational resources.
Online Forums: Participate in online forums to share your experiences and learn from others.
Safety Courses: Consider taking a chainsaw safety course to enhance your skills and knowledge.

Suppliers of Logging Tools

Bailey’s: A leading supplier of logging tools and equipment.
Northern Tool + Equipment: Offers a wide range of tools and equipment for wood processing.
Amazon: A convenient source for purchasing chainsaw accessories and safety gear.

Drying Equipment Rental Services

Sunbelt Rentals: Offers a variety of equipment rental services, including dehumidifiers for drying wood.
United Rentals: Provides equipment rental services for construction, industrial, and homeowner projects.

Wood processing and firewood preparation can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. By following the tips and guidelines in this guide, you can safely and efficiently transform trees into a valuable resource for heating your home and enjoying the beauty of wood. Remember to always prioritize safety, maintain your equipment properly, and respect the power of nature. Happy cutting!