Stihl MS170 Guide (5 Pro Tips For Efficient Wood Cutting)

Let’s be honest, in today’s world, we’re all looking for ways to disconnect, to find a bit of primal satisfaction, and maybe even get a little exercise while we’re at it. Believe it or not, swinging a chainsaw and processing wood can be a fantastic way to do just that. Beyond the obvious benefit of having a warm fire on a cold night, studies have shown that physical activity like wood cutting can significantly reduce stress levels, improve cardiovascular health, and even boost your mood. There’s something incredibly therapeutic about transforming a raw log into neatly stacked firewood, a feeling that’s hard to replicate anywhere else.

But before you dive headfirst into the world of wood processing, it’s crucial to have the right tools and the right knowledge. That’s where the Stihl MS170 comes in. It’s a popular choice for homeowners and hobbyists, known for its affordability and ease of use. However, like any tool, it performs best when used correctly.

This guide isn’t just another product review. I’m going to share my personal experiences and hard-earned lessons from years of working with chainsaws, specifically the MS170. I’ve made my fair share of mistakes, learned from them, and I’m here to help you avoid the same pitfalls.

Key Takeaways for Efficient Wood Cutting with the Stihl MS170:

Master the Basics: Proper starting techniques and chain tension are crucial for safety and performance.
Sharpen Your Skills (and Your Chain): A dull chain is a dangerous chain. Learn how to sharpen it correctly.
Choose the Right Wood: Understanding wood density and moisture content will optimize your cutting efficiency.
Optimize Your Cutting Technique: Efficient bucking and limbing techniques minimize strain on the saw and you.
Maintain Your Saw Religiously: Regular cleaning and maintenance prolong the life of your MS170.

So, grab your safety gear, and let’s get started!

The Stihl MS170: Your Entry into the World of Wood Processing

The Stihl MS170 is often touted as the “entry-level” chainsaw, and for good reason. It’s lightweight, relatively inexpensive, and easy to handle, making it a great starting point for homeowners who need to occasionally trim branches or cut firewood. But don’t let its beginner-friendly nature fool you – with the right techniques, the MS170 can be a surprisingly capable tool.

I remember when I first got my hands on an MS170. I was eager to start clearing some fallen trees in my backyard after a storm. I thought, “How hard could this be?” Well, let’s just say I quickly learned that chainsaw operation is more than just pulling a cord and squeezing the trigger. My initial attempts were clumsy, inefficient, and frankly, a bit scary. I stalled the saw countless times, struggled with kickback, and ended up with a pile of unevenly cut wood and a very sore back.

That experience was a wake-up call. It forced me to slow down, learn the fundamentals, and respect the power of the machine. And that’s what I want to impart to you in this guide.

Pro Tip #1: Mastering the Basics – Starting, Chain Tension, and Safety

Before you even think about touching a log, you need to understand the fundamentals of operating your MS170 safely and effectively. This includes starting the saw correctly, ensuring proper chain tension, and adhering to basic safety precautions.

Starting Your Stihl MS170 Like a Pro

Starting a chainsaw can be frustrating, especially when it’s cold or hasn’t been used in a while. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting your MS170 running smoothly:

Safety First: Place the saw on a stable surface, away from your feet and body. Engage the chain brake.
Choke Position: If the engine is cold, pull the choke lever out to the fully extended position. This enriches the fuel mixture for easier starting. If the engine is warm, you might only need the half-choke position (if your model has one), or no choke at all.
Priming the Carburetor: Press the fuel primer bulb (if equipped) several times until you see fuel flowing through the clear line. This ensures that fuel is reaching the carburetor.
Starting Position: Hold the saw firmly with your left hand on the front handle and your right foot firmly planted on the rear handle.
Pull the Starter Cord: Using a short, sharp pull, pull the starter cord until the engine sputters. Don’t pull the cord all the way out, and let it retract slowly to avoid damage.
Disengage the Choke: Once the engine sputters, push the choke lever in to the half-choke position (if applicable) or fully in.
Pull Again: Pull the starter cord again until the engine starts and runs smoothly.
Warm-Up: Let the saw idle for a few minutes to warm up before using it.

Troubleshooting Starting Issues:

Flooded Engine: If you’ve pulled the starter cord too many times with the choke engaged, you may have flooded the engine. To clear a flooded engine, disengage the choke completely and pull the starter cord several times.
Old Fuel: Old fuel can degrade and become difficult to ignite. Drain the old fuel and replace it with fresh fuel mixed with the correct amount of two-stroke oil.
Spark Plug: A fouled or damaged spark plug can prevent the engine from starting. Remove the spark plug, clean it with a wire brush, and check the gap. If the spark plug is heavily fouled or damaged, replace it.

Chain Tension: The Goldilocks Zone

Proper chain tension is crucial for safety, performance, and the longevity of your chain and bar. A chain that is too loose can derail, while a chain that is too tight can overheat and bind.

Checking Chain Tension:

Cool Engine: Always check chain tension with a cool engine.
Lift the Chain: Using a gloved hand, lift the chain in the middle of the bar.
Ideal Tension: The chain should lift about 1/8 inch (3mm) away from the bar. You should be able to easily pull the chain around the bar by hand.
Adjusting Tension: Use the bar wrench to loosen the bar nuts slightly. Then, use the chain tensioning screw (usually located on the side of the saw) to adjust the tension. Tighten the bar nuts securely after adjusting the tension.

Pro Tip: Check chain tension frequently, especially when using a new chain, as it will stretch during the initial break-in period.

Safety First, Always

Chainsaws are powerful tools that can cause serious injury if not used properly. Always wear appropriate safety gear, including:

Eye Protection: Safety glasses or a face shield to protect your eyes from flying debris.
Hearing Protection: Earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing from the loud noise of the chainsaw.
Gloves: Heavy-duty gloves to protect your hands from cuts and vibrations.
Chaps: Chainsaw chaps to protect your legs from accidental cuts.
Boots: Steel-toed boots with good ankle support.

Important Safety Precautions:

Read the Owner’s Manual: Familiarize yourself with the safety instructions and operating procedures for your MS170.
Be Aware of Kickback: Kickback occurs when the tip of the bar comes into contact with a solid object, causing the saw to suddenly jump back towards the operator. Avoid using the tip of the bar, and maintain a firm grip on the saw.
Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep bystanders and pets at a safe distance from the work area.
Never Cut Above Shoulder Height: Cutting above shoulder height increases the risk of losing control of the saw.
Take Breaks: Chainsaw operation can be tiring. Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue, which can increase the risk of accidents.
Never Operate Under the Influence: Alcohol and drugs can impair your judgment and coordination, increasing the risk of accidents.

Pro Tip #2: Sharpen Your Skills (and Your Chain)

A sharp chain is not only more efficient, but it’s also safer. A dull chain requires more force to cut, increasing the risk of kickback and operator fatigue. I cannot stress this enough: a dull chain is a dangerous chain.

Think of it like trying to cut a tomato with a butter knife versus a sharp chef’s knife. The butter knife will slip and slide, requiring more force and increasing the risk of cutting yourself. The sharp chef’s knife, on the other hand, will slice cleanly through the tomato with minimal effort. The same principle applies to chainsaws.

Identifying a Dull Chain

Here are some signs that your chain needs sharpening:

Difficulty Cutting: The saw requires more force to cut through wood.
Fine Sawdust: A sharp chain produces large, clean chips. A dull chain produces fine sawdust.
Smoking Chain: A dull chain generates more friction, which can cause the chain to smoke.
Pulling to One Side: The saw pulls to one side while cutting.

Sharpening Your Chain: A Step-by-Step Guide

There are several ways to sharpen a chainsaw chain, including using a file, a grinder, or a chain sharpening machine. For beginners, using a file is the most accessible and affordable option.

Tools You’ll Need:

Round File: The correct size round file for your chain’s pitch (usually 5/32″ or 3/16″ for the MS170).
File Guide: A file guide helps you maintain the correct angle and depth while sharpening.
Flat File: A flat file for adjusting the depth gauges.
Depth Gauge Tool: A depth gauge tool to check and adjust the depth gauges.
Vise: A vise to hold the chainsaw bar securely.
Gloves: To protect your hands.

Sharpening Process:

Secure the Bar: Clamp the chainsaw bar in a vise.
Identify the Cutters: Chainsaw chains have two types of cutters: left-hand cutters and right-hand cutters.
Sharpen the Cutters: Using the round file and file guide, sharpen each cutter individually. Maintain the correct angle (usually 30-35 degrees) and depth. File from the inside of the cutter to the outside, using smooth, even strokes.
Maintain Consistency: Sharpen each cutter the same number of strokes to ensure that they are all the same length.
Check the Depth Gauges: Use the depth gauge tool to check the height of the depth gauges. The depth gauges should be slightly lower than the cutters.
Adjust the Depth Gauges: If the depth gauges are too high, use the flat file to file them down to the correct height.
Repeat for All Cutters: Repeat the sharpening process for all cutters on the chain.

Pro Tip: Invest in a good quality file guide. It will make the sharpening process much easier and more accurate.

When to Replace Your Chain

Even with regular sharpening, a chainsaw chain will eventually wear out. Here are some signs that it’s time to replace your chain:

Broken or Cracked Cutters: If any of the cutters are broken or cracked, the chain is unsafe to use.
Excessive Wear: If the cutters are excessively worn down, they will no longer hold an edge.
Stretched Chain: If the chain is stretched beyond its limits, it will be difficult to tension properly.

Pro Tip #3: Choose the Right Wood

Not all wood is created equal. Understanding the different types of wood and their properties can significantly impact your cutting efficiency and the quality of your firewood.

I’ve learned this the hard way. I once tried to cut through a massive oak log that had been lying on the ground for years. It was so dense and waterlogged that my MS170 struggled to make any progress. I spent hours wrestling with that log, only to end up with a dull chain, a sore back, and a fraction of the firewood I had hoped for.

Wood Density: Hardwood vs. Softwood

Wood density refers to the amount of wood fiber packed into a given volume. Hardwoods are generally denser than softwoods, making them more difficult to cut but also more energy-dense when burned as firewood.

Hardwoods: Oak, maple, ash, beech, and birch are examples of hardwoods. They are dense, heavy, and burn slowly, producing a lot of heat.
Softwoods: Pine, fir, spruce, and cedar are examples of softwoods. They are less dense, lighter, and burn quickly, producing less heat.

The MS170 is best suited for cutting softwoods and smaller hardwoods. While it can handle larger hardwoods, it will require more effort and patience.

Moisture Content: Seasoned vs. Green Wood

Moisture content refers to the amount of water in the wood. Green wood has a high moisture content, making it difficult to cut and burn. Seasoned wood has a low moisture content, making it easier to cut and burn.

Green Wood: Wood that has been freshly cut. It has a high moisture content (often above 50%) and is difficult to ignite.
Seasoned Wood: Wood that has been allowed to dry for several months or years. It has a low moisture content (typically below 20%) and burns easily.

Cutting green wood is like trying to cut through a sponge. The moisture binds the wood fibers together, making it more resistant to cutting. Seasoned wood, on the other hand, is much drier and more brittle, making it easier to cut.

Pro Tip: Season your firewood for at least six months before burning it. This will improve its burning efficiency and reduce the amount of smoke produced.

Identifying Different Types of Wood

Learning to identify different types of wood can help you choose the right wood for your needs and optimize your cutting techniques. Here are some tips for identifying wood:

Bark: The bark of a tree can be a good indicator of its species.
Leaves: The shape and arrangement of leaves can also help you identify a tree.
Grain: The grain pattern of the wood can vary depending on the species.
Smell: Some woods have a distinct smell.

Pro Tip #4: Optimize Your Cutting Technique

Efficient cutting techniques can minimize strain on the saw and you, allowing you to cut more wood with less effort.

Bucking: Cutting Logs to Length

Bucking is the process of cutting logs into shorter lengths. Here are some tips for bucking logs efficiently:

Support the Log: Ensure that the log is properly supported to prevent it from pinching the chain. Use logs or wedges to support the log on either side of the cut.
Choose the Right Cutting Method: There are several different cutting methods you can use, depending on the size and position of the log. These include:
- Overbucking: Cutting from the top down. This is a good method for small logs.
- Underbucking: Cutting from the bottom up. This is a good method for large logs.
- Combination Cutting: Cutting from both the top and bottom. This is a good method for very large logs.
Use a Wedging: Use wedges to keep the cut open and prevent the chain from pinching.
Maintain a Straight Cut: Keep the saw moving in a straight line to avoid binding the chain.
Avoid Cutting into the Ground: Avoid cutting into the ground, as this can dull the chain.

Limbing: Removing Branches

Limbing is the process of removing branches from a tree. Here are some tips for limbing safely and efficiently:

Work from the Base to the Tip: Start at the base of the tree and work your way towards the tip. This will prevent branches from falling on you.
Cut on the Opposite Side of the Branch: Cut on the opposite side of the branch from where you are standing. This will prevent the branch from kicking back towards you.
Use a Two-Cut Method: Use a two-cut method to prevent the bark from tearing. First, make a small undercut on the bottom of the branch. Then, make a second cut from the top of the branch, slightly further out than the undercut.
Be Aware of Spring Poles: Spring poles are branches that are under tension. Be careful when cutting spring poles, as they can snap back with considerable force.

The Importance of Body Positioning

Proper body positioning is crucial for safety and efficiency. Always maintain a stable stance and keep your weight balanced. Avoid overreaching or twisting, as this can increase the risk of losing control of the saw.

I remember once trying to limb a fallen tree while standing on an uneven surface. I lost my balance and nearly dropped the saw on my foot. That was a close call, and it taught me the importance of paying attention to my surroundings and maintaining a stable stance.

Pro Tip #5: Maintain Your Saw Religiously

Regular maintenance is essential for prolonging the life of your MS170 and ensuring its optimal performance. Neglecting maintenance can lead to costly repairs and potentially dangerous situations.

Cleaning Your Saw

After each use, clean your saw thoroughly to remove sawdust, pitch, and debris. This will prevent these materials from accumulating and clogging the engine.

Remove the Bar and Chain: Remove the bar and chain from the saw.
Clean the Bar Groove: Clean the bar groove with a screwdriver or scraper to remove any debris.
Clean the Chain: Clean the chain with a brush and solvent to remove any pitch or sap.
Clean the Saw Body: Clean the saw body with a damp cloth.
Clean the Air Filter: Clean the air filter with compressed air or soap and water.
Inspect for Damage: Inspect the saw for any signs of damage, such as cracks, leaks, or loose parts.

Maintaining the Air Filter

A clean air filter is essential for proper engine performance. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow, causing the engine to run poorly or stall.

Check the Air Filter Regularly: Check the air filter before each use.
Clean the Air Filter: Clean the air filter with compressed air or soap and water.
Replace the Air Filter: Replace the air filter when it becomes excessively dirty or damaged.

Maintaining the Spark Plug

The spark plug is responsible for igniting the fuel mixture in the engine. A fouled or damaged spark plug can prevent the engine from starting.

Check the Spark Plug Regularly: Check the spark plug every few months.
Clean the Spark Plug: Clean the spark plug with a wire brush.
Check the Gap: Check the gap between the electrodes with a spark plug gap tool.
Replace the Spark Plug: Replace the spark plug when it becomes excessively fouled or damaged.

Maintaining the Fuel System

The fuel system is responsible for delivering fuel to the engine. A clogged fuel filter or carburetor can prevent the engine from running properly.

Use Fresh Fuel: Use fresh fuel mixed with the correct amount of two-stroke oil.
Drain the Fuel Tank: Drain the fuel tank before storing the saw for extended periods.
Clean the Fuel Filter: Clean the fuel filter regularly.
Clean the Carburetor: Clean the carburetor if the engine is running poorly.

Chain and Bar Maintenance

Proper chain and bar maintenance is essential for safety, performance, and the longevity of your saw.

Keep the Chain Sharp: Sharpen the chain regularly.
Maintain Proper Chain Tension: Check and adjust chain tension regularly.
Lubricate the Chain: Use a good quality bar and chain oil to lubricate the chain.
Clean the Bar Groove: Clean the bar groove regularly.
Flip the Bar: Flip the bar periodically to distribute wear evenly.
Replace the Bar: Replace the bar when it becomes excessively worn or damaged.

Pro Tip: Keep a maintenance log to track when you last performed each maintenance task.

Conclusion: Your Journey to Efficient Wood Cutting

The Stihl MS170 is a capable tool that can be used for a variety of wood processing tasks. By mastering the basics, sharpening your skills, choosing the right wood, optimizing your cutting technique, and maintaining your saw religiously, you can significantly improve your cutting efficiency and enjoy the satisfaction of transforming raw logs into neatly stacked firewood.

Remember, safety is paramount. Always wear appropriate safety gear and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from experienced chainsaw users.

Now, go out there and put these tips into practice! And remember, the best way to learn is by doing. So, grab your MS170, head to the woods, and start cutting! With a little practice and patience, you’ll be a wood-processing pro in no time.

Ready to take your wood-cutting skills to the next level? Consider investing in a good-quality file guide or a chain sharpening machine. And don’t forget to stock up on bar and chain oil to keep your saw running smoothly. Happy cutting!

Stihl MS170 Guide (5 Pro Tips for Efficient Wood Cutting)

The Stihl MS170: Your Entry into the World of Wood Processing