Stihl MS 170 Review: A Lightweight Chainsaw Built for Yard Warriors

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Can this compact tool really elevate your gardening experience?

If you’ve ever read a Stihl MS 170 Review and wondered whether a lightweight chainsaw could make yard work easier, you’re not alone. Yard work can be incredibly taxing, especially when tackling branches and smaller trees, but a reliable tool can transform the experience into something manageable and even enjoyable.

Enter the Stihl MS 170 Chainsaw—a powerful yet compact solution designed specifically for light to medium-duty tasks. With its impressive efficiency and reduced vibrations, this chainsaw caters to gardeners and homeowners looking to enhance their outdoor maintenance game without the stress of excessive weight or complicated mechanics.

Customer Favorite

Stihl MS 170 Chainsaw

A Reliable Companion for Gardeners
8.5/10
EXPERT SCORE

This chainsaw is well-suited for light to medium-duty tasks around the garden. Its compact design and efficient cutting power make it a favorite among homeowners looking for reliability without excessive weight.

Power Performance
8.5
Ease of Use
9
Durability
8
Value for Money
8.5
Why You’ll Love It
Lightweight and easy to handle
Strong power for its size
Excellent fuel efficiency
Low vibrations for comfortable use
Drawbacks
Limited to smaller diameter trees
Requires regular maintenance
May struggle with tougher woods

Discover the Ultimate Beginner Chainsaw: STIHL MS170 Unveiled!

Introduction

The Stihl MS 170 Chainsaw is a compact yet powerful tool designed for garden maintenance and light-duty logging. Equipped with a 30 cm³ engine and a guide bar of 30 cm, it provides the perfect balance of power and usability, making it ideal for individuals who require a reliable chainsaw for various outdoor tasks.

Key Specifications

Engine Displacement: 30 cm³
Power Output: 1200 W
Weight: 4.6 kg (10.12 lbs)
Dimensions: 15.75″ L x 9.45″ W x 11.22″ H
Fuel Tank Capacity: 0.25 liters
Guide Bar Length: 30 cm
Vibration Levels: Low

This chainsaw is powered by a lightweight 30 cm³ engine that thrives on efficiency and power. Its moderate weight allows users to maneuver it easily, making it suitable for prolonged use without fatigue.

Design and Build Quality

The Stihl MS 170 incorporates high-quality materials designed for durability. With a construction that ensures low vibrations during operation, this chainsaw aids user comfort and productivity.

Materials: Constructed from high-impact plastic for resilience
Compact Design: Optimized size for ease of handling
Ergonomic Handle: Designed to fit comfortably in hand, reducing strain

The chainsaw is built to last, with attention to detail evident in its assembly and materials. Users often commend its robustness while minimizing weight.

Performance

Drilling Down into Power Performance

The Stihl MS 170 excels in power performance for a compact chainsaw, making quick work of branches up to 30 cm in diameter. Whether clearing brush or trimming trees, its cutting capabilities are commendable given its size.

Cutting Efficiency: The engine’s power output ensures swift cuts.Fuel Efficiency: The chainsaw can operate on low fuel requirements, allowing for longer operational periods without frequent refueling.

Versatility in Use

This chainsaw isn’t just for cutting firewood or maintaining your garden; it’s versatile enough for various tasks:

Pruning and trimming
Clearing low-hanging branches
Felling small to medium-sized trees

Comfort and User Experience

User comfort stands as a critical factor in the design of the Stihl MS 170. The chainsaw incorporates several features to ensure that extended usage is manageable:

Anti-Vibration System: Reduces fatigue during use
Easy Start Mechanism: Quick and efficient starting process, even in colder conditions

Users have praised the chainsaw for its user-friendly operation.

Maintenance and Care

To keep the Stihl MS 170 in peak condition, regular maintenance is vital. This includes:

Chain and Bar Maintenance: Regularly lubricate chains and maintain the guide bar for optimal performance.
Air Filter Cleaning: Keep the air filter clean to avoid engine issues.
Fuel Quality: Use high-quality fuel to enhance performance.

A detailed maintenance schedule can prolong the lifespan of the chainsaw and ensure it operates smoothly.

Pricing and Value for Money

Stihl products often stand as a bit pricier than competitors, but the Stihl MS 170 doesn’t disappoint when it comes to value for money. The reliability, efficiency, and performance provide an excellent return on investment for casual users and gardening enthusiasts.

General Price Range: $$ – $$$ (Check Amazon for current pricing)
Warranty: Typically features a manufacturer’s warranty for added peace of mind.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount with any power tool. The Stihl MS 170 Chainsaw includes several safety features:

Chain Brake: Automatically activates to stop the chain if kickback is detected.
Throttle Lock: Ensures the chainsaw doesn’t accidentally engage.

Using these features can significantly reduce the risk of accidents when operating the tool.

Conclusion

With its balance of power, efficiency, and comfort, the Stihl MS 170 Chainsaw is an excellent investment for anyone looking to maintain their garden or perform light woodcutting tasks. While it has some limitations concerning tree diameter and tough wood, it makes up for it with its ease of use and reliability. As users continue to report satisfaction with its performance and design, the Stihl MS 170 remains a favorite among casual gardeners.

FAQs

1. What is the maximum cutting diameter for the Stihl MS 170?

The Stihl MS 170 is best suited for cutting trees up to 30 cm in diameter.

2. How often should I perform maintenance on my Stihl MS 170?

It’s advisable to check and perform maintenance, such as chain lubrication and filter cleaning, before each use.

3. Is the chainsaw suitable for professional use?

The MS 170 is designed for light to medium gardening tasks and is generally not recommended for heavy-duty logging or professional use.

4. What is the weight of the Stihl MS 170 chainsaw?

The Stihl MS 170 weighs approximately 4.6 kg (10.12 lbs).

5. How easy is it to operate for beginners?

The MS 170 features user-friendly controls and an easy-start mechanism, making it accessible for beginners and occasional users.

Stihl MS 170 Chainsaw
Stihl MS 170 Chainsaw
A Reliable Companion for Gardeners
Amazon.com

FAQs

What is the maximum cutting diameter for the Stihl MS 170?

The Stihl MS 170 is best suited for cutting trees up to 30 cm in diameter.

How often should I perform maintenance on my Stihl MS 170?

It’s advisable to check and perform maintenance, such as chain lubrication and filter cleaning, before each use.

Is the chainsaw suitable for professional use?

The MS 170 is designed for light to medium gardening tasks and is generally not recommended for heavy-duty logging or professional use.

What is the weight of the Stihl MS 170 chainsaw?

The Stihl MS 170 weighs approximately 4.6 kg (10.12 lbs).

How easy is it to operate for beginners?

The MS 170 features user-friendly controls and an easy-start mechanism, making it accessible for beginners and occasional users.

How many horsepower is a Stihl 170?

The Stihl MS 170 produces about 1.7 horsepower (bhp), according to Stihl’s official specifications. Some sources list it as 1.6 hp due to rounding, but the official rating is 1.7 bhp, which equals roughly 1.25 kW of power.

30 Comments
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  1. Any tips for maintenance? I want this little beast to last me a while. Is the oiling frequently needed?

  2. This saw has served me well for regular yard maintenance. Price is a bit high for me, but I find it worth it for the quality and ease of use. The only downside is the noise level; oof! 😵

  3. Got this for my garden and it’s fantastic! Lightweight but cuts as if it was much bigger. Only thing I’d suggest is to keep an eye on the chain tension; it loosens more than I expected!

  4. I’m a little skeptical about gas saws. Don’t they run out of gas quickly? I’m more inclined towards electric ones. Thoughts anyone?

    • Gas models do require more fueling, but they typically have more power and are great for prolonged use. How often do you do yard work?

    • I guess it depends on your need! I’ve always stuck to electric, but gas ones tend to give that extra kick if needed.

  5. I’ve been using the Stihl MS 170 for about a month and it’s amazing! Super light-weight, which is great for someone like me who’s not that strong. I mainly use it for trimming trees in my yard, and it cuts through branches like butter! Anyone else feeling the same?

  6. I’ve had my fair share of chainsaws and let me tell you, this one is surprisingly powerful for its size. Used it to chop firewood for my stove and it did great. Just don’t overdo it on larger logs, have to be mindful! 🤷‍♂️

    • I’d say stick to around 6-8 inches in diameter for best results. Anything bigger, and you’re asking for a workout!

    • That’s good to know! I was worried about using it for firewood. What size logs is it really comfortable with?

  7. The price is a little steep for me. Is there any chance they go on sale often?

  8. I bought this chainsaw a few months ago and while it’s super light, sometimes I wish it had a bit more power for larger jobs. It’s great for smaller projects but when you really need to tackle a big tree, it struggles a bit. Just my experience!

    • Good point! I think I’ll get a larger model for the bigger jobs, but this will complement my collection perfectly!

    • Thanks for your insight, Lila! It’s a great tool for light to medium work, but larger tasks may require something more powerful.

  9. I’ve had this chainsaw for over a year, and I have no complaints! It’s durable and easy to start. A solid choice for anyone not wanting a heavy-duty model.

  10. If you’re looking for a chainsaw that won’t weigh you down, this is it! Used it to prune my trees and felt as light as a feather while doing it. 😄 Can’t recommend it enough!

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