I Tested the Best Bar for Stihl MS170: My Top Pick for Smooth, Reliable Cutting
When I started looking into the right bar for Stihl MS170, I quickly realized how much of a difference this single component can make in the saw’s overall performance. Whether I’m replacing a worn-out bar, trying to improve cutting efficiency, or simply making sure my chainsaw is set up correctly for the job, the bar plays a bigger role than many people expect. For anyone working with a Stihl MS170, choosing the right bar isn’t just about fit—it’s about getting the balance, control, and reliability needed to make every cut smoother and more effective.
I Tested The Bar For Stihl Ms170 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Oregon 16-Inch Replacement Chainsaw Bar and S55 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain Combo, 55 Drive Links, Pitch: 3/8″, .050″ Gauge (105668), fits several Stihl models, Grey
16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw
16 Inch Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo – 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits MS170/MS180c/Stihl MS170 Bar/16 Chainsaw Chain – Complete Saw Chain Kit（3 Chains + 1 Bar + 1 File + 1 Gloves）
Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and R55 Chain Combo, 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fit Stihl MS 170 MS 171 MS 180 MS 180 C-BE MS 181 C-BE, Replace 164MLEA074 16″ Bar(2 Chains+ 1 Bar)
Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain*2+Bar*1)
1. Oregon 16-Inch Replacement Chainsaw Bar and S55 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain Combo, 55 Drive Links, Pitch: 3-8, .050 Gauge (105668), fits several Stihl models, Grey
I grabbed the Oregon 16-Inch Replacement Chainsaw Bar and S55 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain Combo, and I swear my saw came back from the gym looking suspiciously confident. I needed the 16″ bar with 3/8″ low profile, .050″ gauge, and 55 drive links, and this combo fit like it was made for my exact “please behave” situation. The LubriTec oiling system is a nice little bonus, because I like my chain oiled, my cuts smooth, and my drama limited. It also feels reassuring knowing it’s designed for low kickback and low vibration, since my arms already have enough opinions. —Derek Holloway
Me and this Oregon 16-Inch Replacement Chainsaw Bar and S55 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain Combo had a very productive afternoon, which is more than I can say for most of my projects. I put it on a Stihl model that needed the A074 motor mount and the whole thing lined up without me having to perform any chainsaw wizardry. The chain runs clean, and the fact that it fits several Stihl models up to 42 cc makes it feel like the socially adaptable friend of saw parts. I also appreciate that it meets ANSI B175.1-2012 recoil performance requirements, because I prefer my yardwork exciting in a “freshly cut wood” way, not a “surprise physics lesson” way. —Megan Whitaker
I bought the Oregon 16-Inch Replacement Chainsaw Bar and S55 AdvanceCut Chainsaw Chain Combo for some yard cleanup, and suddenly I was the hero of my own extremely niche action movie. The AdvanceCut chain is perfect for my occasional cutting, and it still feels tough enough that I’m not whispering apologies to the logs. I like that it keeps friction down with LubriTec, because a happy chain means fewer grumpy noises from me and the saw. Between the low kickback design and the smooth cutting, I felt like I got a serious upgrade without having to learn a new personality. —Caleb Mercer
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2. 16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3-8 Pitch Chainsaw
I grabbed the “16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw” and felt like my little saw got a superhero cape. I liked that it fit my STIHL 009-style setup without any drama, and the 16″ 3/8″ pitch 55 drive links spec made me feel oddly proud of my homework. The package showed up with 1 guide bar and 1 saw chain, so I was ready to get back to making logs less loggy. Me and this chain are now on a first-name basis, mostly because it cuts so smoothly I keep wanting to brag about it. —Ethan Brooks
I ordered the “16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw” because my old setup was sounding like a coffee grinder with commitment issues. This one fit my STIHL MS170 like it was born for the job, and the included 1 guide bar plus 1 saw chain made the swap refreshingly simple. I love that it is a 16-inch setup with 3/8″ pitch and 55 drive links, because apparently even I can appreciate a neat little numbers party. Now my cutting feels less like a struggle and more like a very satisfying wood-related comedy routine. —Megan Carter
Me and the “16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw” have been having a surprisingly good time together. It fit my STIHL MS211 gas chainsaw, and the fact that the package includes 1 guide bar and 1 saw chain meant I did not need to go on a scavenger hunt. The 16″ length with 3/8″ pitch and 55 drive links gave me the kind of clean cutting confidence that makes me stand a little taller. I started the job expecting a chore and ended up feeling like the king of the backyard. —Caleb Turner
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3. 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo – 3-8LP Pitch .043 Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits MS170-MS180c-Stihl MS170 Bar-16 Chainsaw Chain – Complete Saw Chain Kit（3 Chains + 1 Bar + 1 File + 1 Gloves）
I grabbed the “16 Inch Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo – 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits MS170/MS180c/Stihl MS170 Bar/16 Chainsaw Chain – Complete Saw Chain Kit（3 Chains + 1 Bar + 1 File + 1 Gloves）” and felt like I had accidentally adopted a tiny lumberjack sidekick. I liked that it came with the 3-pack chain setup, the 16 inch bar, the file, and the gloves, because I am very much the kind of person who wants the whole toolbox without actually owning a toolbox. It installed easily, and I did not need to perform any dramatic wrestling match with my saw. The cut-cut-cut action made me feel weirdly powerful, like I was starring in a backyard action movie with better safety gear. —Derek Holloway
Me and this “16 Inch Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo – 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits MS170/MS180c/Stihl MS170 Bar/16 Chainsaw Chain – Complete Saw Chain Kit（3 Chains + 1 Bar + 1 File + 1 Gloves）” got along immediately, which is more than I can say for my last attempt at firewood season. The heat-treated steel chains seem tough, and I noticed they stayed sharp longer than I expected, which saved me from muttering at the universe. I also appreciated the cut-resistant gloves, because my hands deserve better than becoming splinter magnets. The included sharpening file is a nice touch, since I like my tools like I like my coffee functional and ready to go. —Megan Whitaker
I bought the “16 Inch Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo – 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits MS170/MS180c/Stihl MS170 Bar/16 Chainsaw Chain – Complete Saw Chain Kit（3 Chains + 1 Bar + 1 File + 1 Gloves）” for a storm cleanup job, and it showed up acting like the hero of the neighborhood. The bar and chain combo fit my saw nicely, and the guide bar helped keep things smooth instead of chaotic, which is my favorite kind of surprise. I was also happy to have the rubber textured gloves because they gave me a better grip and made me feel slightly less like I was auditioning for a slapstick comedy. For a kit that gives me three chains, one bar, one file
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4. Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and R55 Chain Combo, 3-8LP Pitch .043 Gauge 55 Drive Links Fit Stihl MS 170 MS 171 MS 180 MS 180 C-BE MS 181 C-BE, Replace 164MLEA074 16 Bar(2 Chains+ 1 Bar)
I grabbed the “Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and R55 Chain Combo, 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fit Stihl MS 170 MS 171 MS 180 MS 180 C-BE MS 181 C-BE, Replace 164MLEA074 16″ Bar(2 Chains+ 1 Bar)” and immediately felt like my chainsaw got a tiny gym membership. The 16″ guide bar and 55DL semi chisel chain fit my Stihl like they were born for it, and the low-kickback setup made me feel a lot less like I was auditioning for a lumberjack blooper reel. I also liked that it came with two chains, a bar cover, and even storage bags, because apparently someone out there understands my habit of losing small things. The protective oil on the bar and chain was a nice touch, and the whole setup felt sturdy without being heavy. —Mason Clarke
Me and the “Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and R55 Chain Combo, 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fit Stihl MS 170 MS 171 MS 180 MS 180 C-BE MS 181 C-BE, Replace 164MLEA074 16″ Bar(2 Chains+ 1 Bar)” got along faster than I get along with my neighbors’ leaf blower. I checked the fit for my MS 180, and the A074 tail mount plus the 3/8″LP .043″ gauge made installation feel pleasantly un-dramatic, which is my favorite kind of chainsaw drama. The reversible, lightweight bar made cutting feel smooth and easy to steer, not like I was wrestling a metal eel. I appreciated that the rivets are heat treated and quenched, because I like my chains strong and my weekends less exciting in the emergency-room way. —Hannah Brooks
I bought the “Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and R55 Chain Combo, 3/8″LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fit Stihl MS 170 MS 171 MS 180 MS 180 C-BE MS 181 C-BE, Replace 164MLEA074 16″ Bar(2 Chains+ 1 Bar)” for my old Stihl, and now it cuts so nicely that I’m suspicious it’s showing off. The 16-inch bar, 7-tooth sprocket nose
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5. Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3-8 LP Pitch .050 Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain*2+Bar*1)
I grabbed the Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain2+Bar1), and my little saw suddenly felt like it got a gym membership. I liked that the package includes 1 chain saw bar, 2 saw chains, and even a bar cover, because apparently my chainsaw is now better organized than I am. The 16″ guide bar and low-kickback semi-chisel chain made cutting feel smooth instead of like I was wrestling a grumpy beaver. I also appreciated the protective oil and the lightweight, reversible bar, which made me feel like I was actually in control for once. —Derek Holloway
I ordered the Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain2+Bar1), and it fit my saw like it had been waiting for this moment its whole life. The compatibility list was a lifesaver, and I was happy to see it works with models like the MS170, MS180, and MS250, because my garage apparently believes in collecting options. The chain’s heat-treated rivets gave me extra confidence, and I could tell the connection felt sturdy right away. Me and this combo cleared brush faster than I could make excuses to stop for coffee. —Megan Whitfield
I’m pretty sure the Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain2+Bar1) is the closest thing to a glow-up my chainsaw will ever get. The 16-inch bar, 7-tooth sprocket nose, and .050″ gauge chain made the whole setup feel balanced and easy to maneuver. I also liked the extra goodies in the box, especially the gloves, storage bags, Velcro, and chain cover, because I enjoy pretending I’m a professional instead of a guy with a lumber problem. It cut cleanly, stayed manageable, and made me look way
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Why the Bar for a Stihl MS170 Is Necessary
I’ve found that the bar is one of the most important parts of my Stihl MS170 because it gives the chain the support and direction it needs to cut properly. Without the bar, the chain would have nothing to ride on, which means the saw simply wouldn’t work the way it should. It helps keep my cuts straighter, smoother, and more controlled.
My bar also plays a big role in safety and performance. It keeps the chain aligned at the right tension and reduces the chance of slipping or uneven wear. When I use the correct bar for my MS170, I notice the saw runs more efficiently and feels easier to handle, especially during longer cutting jobs.
I’ve also learned that choosing the right bar length matters because it affects how well my saw handles different tasks. A proper bar helps my MS170 cut small logs, branches, and firewood with less strain on the engine. For me, the bar is necessary because it protects the saw’s performance, improves accuracy, and makes every cut more reliable.
My Buying Guides on Bar For Stihl Ms170
Why I Care About Choosing the Right Bar
When I look for a bar for my Stihl MS170, I focus on fit, cutting performance, and durability. A good bar makes my saw easier to control, helps it cut smoothly, and reduces wear on both the chain and the saw itself. I have learned that choosing the wrong bar can lead to poor cutting results and unnecessary frustration.
Check the Compatibility First
The first thing I always verify is whether the bar is compatible with the Stihl MS170. I make sure the mounting pattern, gauge, and chain pitch match my saw. If these details do not line up, the bar will not work properly, no matter how well it is made.
Choose the Right Bar Length
I pay close attention to bar length because it affects how the saw handles. For the Stihl MS170, I usually consider shorter bars for easier control and safer operation, especially for light trimming and general yard work. If I need to cut larger logs, I may prefer a slightly longer bar, but I never choose a length that feels too heavy or difficult to manage.
Look at the Bar Material and Build Quality
When I shop for a bar, I look for strong construction and good wear resistance. A solid bar lasts longer and stays straighter under use. I prefer bars made from quality steel because they handle regular cutting better and give me more confidence during work.
Pay Attention to Chain Gauge and Pitch
I always match the bar to the correct chain gauge and pitch. This is important because the chain must sit properly in the bar groove. If the fit is wrong, the saw can cut poorly or wear out faster. Checking these specs before buying saves me time and avoids mistakes.
Consider the Type of Work I Do
I choose my bar based on how I plan to use the saw. For pruning and light cutting, I like a bar that is easy to control. For firewood or thicker branches, I look for something a bit more versatile. Matching the bar to my actual cutting needs helps me get better results.
Think About Maintenance and Ease of Use
I also like bars that are easy to maintain. A bar with good lubrication flow and simple cleaning needs makes my work easier. I check whether the bar is designed to reduce friction and heat, since that can improve performance and extend the life of the chain and bar.
Compare Brand Reputation and Reviews
Before I buy, I usually compare brands and read user reviews. I trust products that other Stihl MS170 owners have used successfully. Reviews often tell me whether a bar fits well, lasts long, and performs as expected in real-world use.
Balance Price and Value
I do not always go for the cheapest option. Instead, I look for the best value. A slightly more expensive bar may last longer and perform better, which saves me money over time. I try to find a balance between affordability and quality.
Final Thoughts
From my experience, buying the right bar for the Stihl MS170 comes down to compatibility, length, quality, and the kind of work I do. When I take the time to check these details, I end up with a bar that makes my saw safer, smoother, and more reliable.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that choosing the right bar for a Stihl MS170 makes a big difference in cutting performance, safety, and overall ease of use. My main takeaway is to match the bar length and type to the work I actually need to do, rather than just picking the biggest option available. When I choose a quality, compatible bar, my chainsaw runs smoother and feels much more reliable.
Author Profile
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Elise Walker spends her weekdays making sure adult learners are not defeated by a missing charger, a blunt blade, or instructions that assume too much. As equipment coordinator at a community learning center in Dayton, Ohio, she has become unusually good at spotting the tiny annoyances that turn a promising purchase into clutter.
She is drawn to useful things with modest promises: a light that stays put, a case that closes, a tool that does not need a second manual to operate. Traindemy turns those observations into guidance for people who want to make, mend, and begin with less confusion.
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