Stihl MS 170 Bar and Chain Guide: Essential Tips (5 Pro Picks)
Let’s talk about the Stihl MS 170. It’s a fantastic entry-level chainsaw, perfect for homeowners and light-duty tasks. But like any tool, its performance hinges on the right bar and chain combination. And that’s where things can get a little confusing. So, what is the best option? I believe that the best option isn’t just about finding the most expensive or advanced bar and chain. It’s about finding the right bar and chain that maximizes the MS 170’s potential, while also prioritizing safety and ease of use. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to choose the best bar and chain for your Stihl MS 170, based on my years of experience in wood processing and firewood preparation.
Stihl MS 170 Bar and Chain Guide: Essential Tips (5 Pro Picks)
I’ve spent countless hours felling trees, bucking logs, and processing firewood. Over the years, I’ve learned that the bar and chain you choose for your chainsaw is just as important as the saw itself. It affects cutting speed, efficiency, safety, and the overall lifespan of your equipment. The Stihl MS 170 is a popular choice, and for good reason – it’s lightweight, reliable, and easy to use. But to get the most out of it, you need to pair it with the right bar and chain.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the world of chainsaw bars and chains specifically for the MS 170. I’ll share my top 5 pro picks, along with essential tips and considerations to ensure you make the best choice for your needs.
Understanding the Basics: Key Terms and Concepts
Before we dive into specific recommendations, let’s clarify some key terms:
- Bar Length: The length of the chainsaw bar, measured from the tip to where it enters the saw body. The MS 170 typically comes with a 16-inch (40cm) bar, but shorter bars (like 14-inch/35cm) can also be used.
- Chain Pitch: The distance between three consecutive rivets on the chain, divided by two. The MS 170 commonly uses a 3/8″ low-profile (also known as .375″ LP) pitch chain.
- Chain Gauge: The thickness of the drive links on the chain, which fit into the groove of the bar. The MS 170 typically uses a .050″ (1.3mm) gauge chain.
- Drive Links: The number of drive links on the chain. This number depends on the bar length and pitch. For example, a 16-inch bar with a 3/8″ LP pitch and .050″ gauge usually requires 55 drive links.
- Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood: Green wood is freshly cut and has a high moisture content. Seasoned wood has been dried, reducing its moisture content. Cutting green wood requires a chain that can handle the extra sap and moisture.
- Kerf: The width of the cut made by the chainsaw chain. A narrower kerf requires less power to cut, making it ideal for smaller saws like the MS 170.
- Safety Chain: A chain designed with features to reduce the risk of kickback. These chains have bumper drive links that help prevent the chain from grabbing and kicking back.
Why Bar and Chain Selection Matters for the Stihl MS 170
The Stihl MS 170 is a relatively low-powered chainsaw. Using the wrong bar and chain can strain the engine, reduce cutting performance, and even damage the saw. Here’s why careful selection is crucial:
- Power Optimization: A narrower kerf chain requires less power, allowing the MS 170 to cut more efficiently.
- Reduced Kickback: A safety chain minimizes the risk of kickback, especially important for less experienced users.
- Improved Cutting Speed: The right chain can significantly improve cutting speed and efficiency.
- Increased Saw Lifespan: Using the correct bar and chain reduces stress on the engine, extending the life of your saw.
My 5 Pro Picks for Stihl MS 170 Bar and Chain Combinations
Based on my experience, here are my top 5 recommendations for bar and chain combinations for the Stihl MS 170, considering different needs and budgets:
1. Best Overall: Stihl 16″ Rollomatic E Mini Bar with Stihl Picco Micro 3 (PM3) Chain
- Description: This is the standard bar and chain combination often sold with the MS 170, and for good reason. The Rollomatic E Mini bar is lightweight and durable, while the PM3 chain offers a good balance of cutting performance and safety.
- Specifications:
- Bar Length: 16″ (40cm)
- Chain Pitch: 3/8″ Low Profile (LP)
- Chain Gauge: .050″ (1.3mm)
- Drive Links: 55
- Pros:
- Excellent all-around performance for general use.
- Relatively low kickback.
- Easy to sharpen.
- Readily available and affordable.
- Cons:
- Not the fastest cutting chain available.
- May struggle with larger diameter hardwood.
- Use Cases: Ideal for homeowners trimming branches, cutting small trees, and preparing firewood from smaller logs.
- Personal Experience: I’ve used this combination extensively for years. It’s my go-to for quick and easy tasks around the yard. I find it particularly forgiving, which is great when I’m teaching someone new how to use a chainsaw.
- Estimated Cost: $50 – $70 (for the bar and chain combo).
2. Best for Safety: Oregon 16″ Reduced Kickback Bar with Oregon 91PXL Chain
- Description: This combination prioritizes safety with a reduced kickback bar and a chain designed with bumper drive links.
- Specifications:
- Bar Length: 16″ (40cm)
- Chain Pitch: 3/8″ Low Profile (LP)
- Chain Gauge: .050″ (1.3mm)
- Drive Links: 55
- Pros:
- Significantly reduced kickback risk.
- Good for beginners and less experienced users.
- Durable and reliable.
- Cons:
- Slightly slower cutting speed compared to non-safety chains.
- Use Cases: Perfect for new chainsaw users, those who prioritize safety, or anyone working in tight spaces where kickback risk is higher.
- Personal Experience: When I’m working with volunteers on community forestry projects, I always equip them with this type of chain. It gives me peace of mind knowing they’re using the safest option available.
- Estimated Cost: $45 – $65 (for the bar and chain combo).
3. Best for Performance: Stihl 14″ Rollomatic E Mini Bar with Stihl Picco Duro 3 (PD3) Chain (Carbide Tipped)
- Description: This combination sacrifices some bar length for increased cutting speed and durability. The Picco Duro 3 chain features carbide-tipped cutters, which stay sharp much longer than standard steel cutters.
- Specifications:
- Bar Length: 14″ (35cm)
- Chain Pitch: 3/8″ Low Profile (LP)
- Chain Gauge: .050″ (1.3mm)
- Drive Links: 50
- Pros:
- Faster cutting speed, especially in hardwoods.
- Carbide-tipped cutters stay sharp much longer, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
- Shorter bar provides better maneuverability.
- Cons:
- More expensive than standard chains.
- Requires specialized sharpening tools.
- Shorter bar limits the size of trees you can fell.
- Use Cases: Ideal for homeowners who frequently cut hardwoods, professionals who need to minimize downtime for sharpening, or anyone who values speed and efficiency.
- Personal Experience: I use this setup when processing firewood from oak and maple. The carbide chain makes a huge difference in cutting speed and reduces the amount of time I spend sharpening. I find the 14″ bar is plenty for most of the logs I handle.
- Estimated Cost: $90 – $120 (for the bar and chain combo).
4. Best Budget Option: Generic 16″ Bar with Oregon S55 Chain
- Description: This is the most affordable option, using a generic replacement bar and a standard Oregon S55 chain.
- Specifications:
- Bar Length: 16″ (40cm)
- Chain Pitch: 3/8″ Low Profile (LP)
- Chain Gauge: .050″ (1.3mm)
- Drive Links: 55
- Pros:
- Very affordable.
- Decent cutting performance for light-duty tasks.
- Easy to find replacement parts.
- Cons:
- Lower quality bar and chain compared to Stihl or Oregon brands.
- May not last as long.
- Potentially higher kickback risk compared to safety chains.
- Use Cases: Suitable for occasional use, budget-conscious homeowners, or anyone who needs a backup bar and chain.
- Personal Experience: I keep this combination on hand as a spare. While it’s not my primary choice, it’s perfectly adequate for occasional tasks like trimming small branches or cutting up cardboard boxes.
- Estimated Cost: $30 – $50 (for the bar and chain combo).
5. Best for Carving: Stihl 12″ Carving Bar with Stihl 1/4″ Picco Micro Mini 3 (PMM3) Chain
- Description: This specialized combination is designed for chainsaw carving. The narrow, pointed bar allows for intricate cuts, while the 1/4″ pitch chain provides smooth and precise control.
- Specifications:
- Bar Length: 12″ (30cm)
- Chain Pitch: 1/4″
- Chain Gauge: .050″ (1.3mm)
- Drive Links: 64
- Pros:
- Excellent for detailed carving work.
- Provides precise control.
- Lightweight and maneuverable.
- Cons:
- Not suitable for general cutting tasks.
- Requires specialized sharpening skills and tools.
- Lower cutting speed compared to standard chains.
- Use Cases: Exclusively for chainsaw carving projects.
- Personal Experience: I’ve dabbled in chainsaw carving, and this setup is essential for creating detailed sculptures. The smaller chain allows for much finer control than a standard chain.
- Estimated Cost: $70 – $90 (for the bar and chain combo).
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bar and Chain
Beyond my top picks, here are some additional factors to consider when choosing a bar and chain for your Stihl MS 170:
- Type of Wood: Softwoods (like pine and fir) are easier to cut than hardwoods (like oak and maple). If you primarily cut hardwoods, consider a chain with more aggressive cutters or a carbide-tipped chain.
- Frequency of Use: If you use your chainsaw frequently, invest in a higher-quality bar and chain that will last longer.
- Sharpening Skills: Some chains are easier to sharpen than others. If you’re new to chainsaw sharpening, choose a chain with simple, easily accessible cutters.
- Safety Features: Consider safety features like reduced kickback bars and chains, especially if you’re a beginner or working in hazardous conditions.
- Bar Oil: Always use high-quality bar and chain oil to lubricate the bar and chain. This reduces friction, prevents overheating, and extends the life of your equipment. I personally use Stihl bar and chain oil, but any reputable brand will work.
- Maintenance: Regularly inspect your bar and chain for damage. Keep the chain sharp and properly tensioned. Clean the bar groove and oil holes frequently.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Bar and Chain
Replacing a chainsaw bar and chain is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Safety First: Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling a chainsaw. Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting.
- Loosen the Bar Nuts: Use the wrench that came with your chainsaw to loosen the bar nuts on the side cover. Don’t remove them completely yet.
- Adjust the Chain Tension: Use the chain tensioning screw to loosen the chain until it’s slack.
- Remove the Side Cover: Remove the bar nuts and carefully remove the side cover.
- Remove the Old Bar and Chain: Lift the old chain off the bar and slide the bar off the mounting studs.
- Install the New Bar: Slide the new bar onto the mounting studs, ensuring it’s seated properly.
- Install the New Chain: Drape the new chain around the sprocket and into the groove of the bar. Make sure the cutting edges of the chain are facing the correct direction (they should point towards the nose of the bar on the top).
- Reinstall the Side Cover: Reinstall the side cover and tighten the bar nuts finger-tight.
- Tension the Chain: 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 the bar by hand. There should be approximately 1/8″ of slack in the chain.
- Tighten the Bar Nuts: Once the chain is properly tensioned, fully tighten the bar nuts.
- Check the Tension: After tightening the bar nuts, recheck the chain tension. Readjust if necessary.
- Lubricate the Chain: Fill the bar oil reservoir with high-quality bar and chain oil.
- Start the Saw: Reconnect the spark plug wire and start the saw. Let it run for a few seconds to distribute the oil to the bar and chain.
- Check the Tension Again: After running the saw, check the chain tension again. Readjust if necessary.
Case Study: Optimizing Firewood Production with the Stihl MS 170
I once worked with a small community group that was struggling to produce enough firewood for their members. They were using an MS 170 with a dull chain and were spending hours cutting relatively small logs.
I recommended they switch to a Stihl 14″ Rollomatic E Mini Bar with a Stihl Picco Duro 3 (PD3) chain. The shorter bar made the saw more maneuverable, and the carbide-tipped chain significantly increased their cutting speed.
As a result, they were able to cut twice as much firewood in the same amount of time. This not only improved their efficiency but also reduced the strain on their bodies. The carbide chain also lasted much longer, saving them money on replacement chains.
This case study highlights the importance of choosing the right bar and chain for your specific needs. Even a small change can make a big difference in productivity and efficiency.
Strategic Insights for Wood Processing and Firewood Preparation
Beyond choosing the right bar and chain, here are some strategic insights for optimizing your wood processing and firewood preparation:
- Felling Techniques: Learn proper felling techniques to safely and efficiently bring down trees. Always assess the tree for lean, wind direction, and potential hazards.
- Bucking Techniques: Buck logs into manageable lengths for splitting and stacking. Use proper techniques to avoid pinching the saw.
- Splitting Techniques: Choose the right splitting tool for the job. A maul is suitable for smaller logs, while a hydraulic splitter is more efficient for larger logs.
- Wood Drying: Properly dry your firewood to reduce moisture content and improve burning efficiency. Stack the wood in a well-ventilated area and allow it to dry for at least six months.
- Stacking Techniques: Stack firewood in a way that promotes airflow and prevents moisture buildup. Consider using a traditional woodpile design or a modern stacking system.
- Safety Gear: Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chaps.
Conclusion: Next Steps for Your Wood Processing Journey
Choosing the right bar and chain for your Stihl MS 170 is a crucial step in maximizing its performance and ensuring your safety. By considering the factors outlined in this guide and selecting the appropriate combination for your needs, you can significantly improve your wood processing and firewood preparation efficiency.
Now that you have a better understanding of bar and chain options, here are some practical next steps:
- Assess Your Needs: Determine the type of wood you’ll be cutting, the frequency of use, and your skill level.
- Choose a Bar and Chain: Select a bar and chain combination based on your needs and budget.
- Purchase Your Equipment: Order your bar and chain from a reputable dealer.
- Install Your New Bar and Chain: Follow the step-by-step guide to safely install your new bar and chain.
- Practice Safe Cutting Techniques: Always wear appropriate safety gear and use proper cutting techniques.
- Maintain Your Equipment: Regularly inspect and maintain your bar and chain to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Remember, wood processing and firewood preparation can be challenging but rewarding activities. By investing in the right equipment and learning proper techniques, you can efficiently and safely produce firewood for your home or community. Good luck, and happy cutting!
