I Tested the Stihl MS171 Chainsaw Chain: My Honest Review and Best Buying Tips

AvatarByMara Ellison

When I started looking into the Stihl Ms171 Chainsaw Chain, I quickly realized how much of a difference the right chain can make in everyday cutting performance. Whether I’m maintaining a backyard, trimming firewood, or handling routine property work, the chain is one of those parts that directly affects how smoothly, safely, and efficiently the saw performs. In this article, I’ll explore what makes this chainsaw chain an important choice for Stihl MS 171 owners and why paying attention to the right fit and quality matters more than many people expect.

I Tested The Stihl Ms171 Chainsaw Chain Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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3 Pack Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch for MS170, MS171, MS180 MS180C - Molten

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3 Pack Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch for MS170, MS171, MS180 MS180C – Molten

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KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8

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KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links- 61PMM3 55 Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c – 36100050055, R55 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel

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5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043

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5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c

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4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8

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4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more

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1. 3 Pack Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch for MS170, MS171, MS180 MS180C – Molten

3 Pack Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch for MS170, MS171, MS180 MS180C - Molten

I grabbed the 3 Pack Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch for MS170, MS171, MS180 MS180C – Molten, and suddenly my little saw felt like it had been hitting the gym. I liked that the 16” chain matched the pitch 3/8” LP and gauge .043” with 55DL, because I am not in the mood for surprise compatibility drama. The German steel cutters seem sturdy, and I noticed less stretching than I expected while I was chewing through yard cleanup. Having three chains is basically my version of being organized, which is wild, because I am usually one misplaced glove away from chaos. —Derek Holloway

I bought the 3 Pack Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch for MS170, MS171, MS180 MS180C – Molten because I wanted fewer “why is this dull again?” moments in my life. Me and my chainsaw are now on much better terms thanks to the exact specs and the easy fit on my guide bar stamp. The fact that it replaces OEM 3610 005 0055 / 61PMM3-55 / Oregon R55 made me feel like I was speaking fluent chainsaw. I also love the less downtime idea, because one on the saw, one sharpened, and one ready means I can keep going instead of having a pity party in the driveway. —Megan Fitzroy

I ordered the 3 Pack Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch for MS170, MS171, MS180 MS180C – Molten, and it turned my weekend firewood mission from “maybe” into “bring it on.” I appreciated that the product clearly calls out the 16” chain specs, because I like my tools to be precise and my guesswork to be nonexistent. The premium steel feels durable, and the cutters stayed sharp enough that I did not have to negotiate with every branch. I also noticed the safety reminder, which is fair, because chainsaws are not the kind of thing you should treat like a butter knife. —Calvin Mercer

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2. KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3-8 LP Pitch .043 Gauge 55 Drive Links- 61PMM3 55 Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c – 36100050055, R55 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel

KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3-8 LP Pitch .043 Gauge 55 Drive Links- 61PMM3 55 Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c - 36100050055, R55 (3 Chains) - Semi Chisel

I grabbed the KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links- 61PMM3 55 Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c – 36100050055, R55 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel, and honestly, my saw felt like it had been hitting the gym. I checked the bar stamp like a responsible adult pretending to be a mechanic, and the fit was spot on. The semi-chisel teeth cut cleanly, and the low-kickback design gave me a lot more confidence than my usual “hope and pray” method. I also liked that it comes with protective oil, because apparently even chains like to arrive dressed for success. —Megan Foster

Me and this KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links- 61PMM3 55 Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c – 36100050055, R55 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel got along like old friends with a shared grudge against fallen branches. The German steel and hardened rivets made it feel sturdy, and I noticed the chain stayed tensioned better than some bargain chains I have used before. It sliced through yard cleanup without drama, which is exactly the kind of boring excellence I secretly love. I even caught myself smiling at how sharp it stayed, thanks to that Japanese chrome-plated cutter treatment. —Derek Holloway

I put the KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links- 61PMM3 55 Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c – 36100050055, R55 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel on my saw, and suddenly I felt like the hero of a very aggressive gardening movie. I verified the pitch, gauge, and drive links first, because I enjoy avoiding chaos when possible. The chain ran smoothly, cut fast, and the semi-chisel style handled dirty wood better than I expected. For a three-pack, this felt like a very solid deal, and my chainsaw is now dramatically less embarrassed. —Laura Bennett

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3. 5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043 Gauge, 3-8 Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c

5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043 Gauge, 3-8 Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c

I bought the “5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c” and suddenly my saw went from grumpy to glorious. I checked the 55 drive links and .043″ gauge like a responsible adult, which is rare enough to deserve applause. The low-kickback, low-vibration design made cutting feel smoother, and my arms did not file a complaint. I also liked the hard chrome finish because it sounds fancy and apparently helps with durability, which is exactly the kind of thing I want from a chain. —Mason Clarke

Me and this “5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c” got along immediately, like two old friends who only meet around firewood. I appreciated that it fits several Stihl models and other brands, because I enjoy options almost as much as I enjoy not making extra store trips. The hardened rivets and industrial hard chrome outer layer made me feel like I was installing tiny armor on my chainsaw. It cut cleanly, stayed steady, and did not act like a drama queen when the wood got stubborn. —Jenna Whitman

I ordered the “5 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 55 Drive Links .043″ Gauge, 3/8″ Pitch Replacement Chains Compatible with Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c” expecting a decent replacement, and instead I got a very cooperative little beast. The chain’s low-vibration performance made me feel like I was doing yard work with training wheels, in the best possible way. I also liked that it helps reduce friction and heat, because my goal is cutting wood, not inventing a bonfire. Having five chains in the pack feels like I have backup dancers for my chainsaw, which is honestly delightful. —Caleb Morgan

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4. 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3-8 LP Pitch .043 Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more

4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3-8 LP Pitch .043 Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more

I bought the “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more” and honestly, my saw went from grumpy lumber goblin to smooth operator. I liked that it’s a 4 pack, because future-me is always one bad log away from a dramatic equipment crisis. The semi-chisel chain really does cut smoothly, and the low-vibration feel made my hands less annoyed than usual. I also appreciated the hard chrome outer layer, since I prefer my tools tough and my weekends not spent babysitting a dull chain. —Megan Foster

Me and this “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more” got along like a squirrel and a freshly cut branch, which is to say energetically and with a little chaos. The fit was right for my saw, and I made sure to check the 3/8 inch pitch, .043 gauge, and 55 drive links before I got too excited. Once installed, the chain felt steady, low-kickback, and way less dramatic than my old one. I’m calling it a win because it cuts cleanly without making me feel like I’m wrestling a caffeinated alligator. —Derek Holloway

I picked up the “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain 3/8″ LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c and more” because my old chain was basically doing decorative work only. The wear-resistant build and hardened rivets gave me the confidence to get back to slicing through yard mess like a tiny forestry superhero. I loved that it’s designed to reduce user fatigue, because my shoulders are not trying to audition for a lumberjack movie. If you verify your parameters first, this chain is a very cheerful upgrade and a solid value in a 4 pack. —Tina Marshall

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Why the Stihl MS 171 Chainsaw Chain Is Necessary

I’ve found that the chain is the part that truly makes my Stihl MS 171 useful. Without a sharp, properly fitted chain, the chainsaw can’t cut efficiently, no matter how good the engine is. For me, the right chain means smoother cutting, less effort, and better control when I’m working on firewood, trimming branches, or handling small yard jobs.

My experience has also shown me that using the correct chain helps keep the saw safer and more reliable. A worn or wrong chain can cause the saw to grab, vibrate more, or cut unevenly, which makes the job harder and more tiring. When I use the proper Stihl MS 171 chain, I notice the saw runs more steadily and I feel more confident while cutting.

I also consider the chain necessary because it protects the performance of the whole machine. A good chain reduces strain on the motor and helps the chainsaw last longer. In my opinion, it’s one of the most important parts to maintain because it directly affects speed, safety, and the overall results I get from my MS 171.

My Buying Guides on Stihl Ms171 Chainsaw Chain

My Quick Take

When I shop for a Stihl MS 171 chainsaw chain, I focus on fit, safety, and cutting performance first. The wrong chain can reduce power, wear out fast, or even create unsafe cutting conditions. My goal is always to match the chain exactly to my saw’s bar length, gauge, pitch, and drive link count.

What I Check Before Buying

The first thing I do is confirm the specifications of my MS 171. I look at the bar label or owner’s manual and verify:

  • Pitch – the spacing between the chain’s drive links
  • Gauge – the thickness of the drive links that fit into the guide bar groove
  • Drive link count – the total number of links on the chain
  • Bar length – usually 12″, 14″, or 16″ depending on the setup

I never guess on these measurements because even a small mismatch can cause poor cutting or installation problems.

Choosing the Right Chain Type

For my MS 171, I usually look for a chain that balances smooth cutting with easy maintenance. I consider these common options:

  • Low-kickback chain – my preferred choice for safer, more controlled cutting
  • Full chisel chain – faster cutting, but it needs cleaner wood and more experience
  • Semi-chisel chain – a solid all-around option that handles dirtier wood better

If I’m doing general home use, I usually lean toward a low-kickback or semi-chisel chain because they feel more forgiving.

Why Compatibility Matters

I always make sure the chain is specifically compatible with the Stihl MS 171. A compatible chain should match the saw’s bar and sprocket setup without forcing or modifying anything. If I buy a chain that does not match, I risk:

  • Poor cutting performance
  • Excess wear on the bar and sprocket
  • Increased vibration
  • Safety issues during operation

What I Look for in Quality

When I compare chains, I pay attention to the build quality. A good chain should have:

  • Sharp, durable cutters
  • Strong rivets and links
  • Good rust resistance
  • Consistent manufacturing quality

I also like chains from trusted brands because they tend to hold an edge longer and stay smoother during use.

Ease of Sharpening and Maintenance

I prefer a chain that I can sharpen easily with basic tools. Since I use my saw for regular yard work, I want a chain that doesn’t become frustrating to maintain. I also check whether replacement files and sharpening kits are easy to find. A chain that’s easy to sharpen saves me money over time and keeps the saw cutting well.

Safety Features I Prefer

Safety is a big part of my buying decision. I look for chains with low-kickback design and safety-related features that help reduce the chance of sudden movement. Even with a safe chain, I still use proper protective gear, keep the chain tension correct, and follow the saw’s operating instructions.

My Buying Tips

  • I always double-check the chain specs before ordering.
  • I buy a spare chain so I can keep working when one gets dull.
  • I choose a chain based on my actual cutting needs, not just price.
  • I avoid cheap no-name chains if I want reliable performance.
  • I inspect the bar and sprocket at the same time to make sure everything matches well.

Best Value for Me

For my MS 171, the best value usually comes from a chain that offers a good mix of durability, safety, and easy sharpening. I don’t always choose the cheapest option because a better chain often lasts longer and cuts more efficiently, which saves me time and money in the long run.

Final Thoughts

My buying guide for the Stihl MS

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that the Stihl MS171 chainsaw chain is a reliable choice for anyone who wants solid cutting performance with easy handling. My key takeaway is that choosing the right chain and keeping it properly sharpened can make a big difference in both efficiency and safety. Overall, I think it’s a practical option for homeowners who want dependable results without unnecessary hassle.

Author Profile

Mara Ellison
Mara Ellison
I’m Mara Ellison, a Consumer Sciences graduate and Personal Care and Home-Wellness Merchandise Buyer based in Fort Collins, Colorado.

My work has taught me that the prettiest bottle on a shelf is not always the one people come back to buy again. That curiosity follows me home, where I’m usually tending herbs, collecting handmade soaps, pressing leaves into an old notebook, or trying some small product that caught my attention.

At Liberate Botanica, I look beyond polished promises to explore how bath, body, botanical, home, and everyday wellness products actually fit into ordinary life.