Stihl MS 170 Chainsaw Review: A Must-Have for Woodworkers

Today, I’m thrilled to delve into an in-depth Stihl MS 170 review, sharing my personal experience with this remarkable chainsaw. The Stihl MS 170 stands out as an exceptional choice, catering to the needs of both seasoned professionals and beginners embarking on their chainsaw journey. As we explore the various facets of this powerful yet user-friendly tool, it becomes clear why the MS 170 is highly regarded in the world of chainsaw enthusiasts and casual users alike. So, let’s dive into the details and uncover the unique features and capabilities that make the Stihl MS170 a top contender in its class.

Handling and Comfort

I was genuinely impressed by the lightweight design and compact size of the Stihl MS 170. Weighing in at just 8.6 lbs, it was a breeze to handle, even during extended cutting sessions. The ergonomics of this chainsaw made it comfortable to use, which is a significant factor when tackling those more substantial woodworking projects.

Performance and Power

During my time using the Stihl MS 170 chainsaw, I found the performance and power quite impressive for its size and class. The 30.1cc 2-stroke engine delivered more than enough power for light to medium-duty cutting tasks, making it perfect for various residential and small-scale woodworking projects like trimming branches, cutting firewood, and handling small trees.

I was delighted with how easily the chainsaw started, and the smooth operation it provided, thanks to the anti-vibration system. This feature significantly reduced the vibrations I felt during use, making the cutting experience more comfortable and enjoyable. The 16-inch bar offered a good cutting capacity, allowing me to tackle various tasks with ease.

It’s worth noting that the Stihl MS 170 isn’t designed for heavy-duty tasks or cutting large logs. For those types of jobs, a more powerful chainsaw with a larger engine and longer bar would be necessary. However, for its intended purpose, the MS 170 certainly lived up to my expectations, providing reliable performance and sufficient power for my light to medium-duty woodworking needs.

What Sets it Apart

What sets the Stihl MS 170 apart from its competitors is its perfect balance of power, weight, and ease of use. This combination makes it an excellent choice for woodworkers of all skill levels, whether you’re just starting or have years of experience under your belt.

Comparisons and Alternatives

During my experience with the Stihl MS 170, I also had the opportunity to try some alternative chainsaws to compare their performance and features. Here are two notable alternatives that I considered:

Husqvarna 135 Mark II

The Husqvarna 135 Mark II is another lightweight chainsaw that is suitable for light to medium-duty cutting tasks. With a 38.2 cc engine and a 16-inch bar, it offers slightly more power than the Stihl MS 170. The chainsaw starts easily, thanks to its combined choke/stop control feature. However, I found that the overall ergonomics and handling of the Stihl MS 170 were more comfortable during extended use.

Echo CS-310

The Echo CS-310 is another alternative in the same class as the Stihl MS 170. It comes with a 30.5 cc engine and a 14-inch bar, making it suitable for similar tasks. The Echo CS-310 features a tool-free air filter cover, making maintenance a bit easier. However, in my experience, the Stihl MS 170 still edged out the Echo CS-310 in terms of overall handling and user comfort.

While all three chainsaws performed well for light to medium-duty tasks, I found the Stihl MS 170 to be the best choice for me due to its excellent balance of power, weight, and ease of use. The superior ergonomics and overall handling of the MS 170 made it stand out among the alternatives. However, depending on your specific needs and preferences, the Husqvarna 135 Mark II or Echo CS-310 may also be suitable options to consider.

Comparison Table

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Lightweight design: At just 8.6 lbs, the Stihl MS 170 is easy to handle, reducing fatigue during extended use.
• Ergonomics: The compact size and comfortable grip make it suitable for users of various skill levels, ensuring precise control during cutting tasks.
• Reliable performance: The 30.1 cc 2-stroke engine offers adequate power for light to medium-duty cutting tasks, making it versatile for various woodworking projects.
• Easy to start: The MS 170 features a straightforward starting process, reducing the time and effort needed to get the chainsaw up and running.
• Anti-vibration system: This feature ensures smoother operation, further enhancing user comfort and reducing fatigue during extended cutting sessions.
• Price: The Stihl MS 170 is competitively priced, making it an excellent value option for woodworkers on a budget or those looking for a reliable chainsaw without breaking the bank.

Cons:

• Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks: While the MS 170 is perfect for light to medium-duty cutting tasks, it may not be the best option for heavy-duty applications or handling large logs.
• Limited customization: The MS 170 comes with a 16-inch bar, which may not be suitable for users looking for a chainsaw with a longer bar or more power.
• No tool-free chain tensioning system: Some chainsaws in this category feature tool-free chain tensioning systems, making it easier to adjust the chain tension without additional tools. The MS 170 does not have this feature, which may be a minor inconvenience for some users.
• Two-stroke engine: The MS 170 uses a two-stroke engine, which requires a mixture of gasoline and oil. This can be less environmentally friendly and require more frequent maintenance compared to four-stroke engines.

Verdict

In my opinion, the Stihl MS 170 chainsaw is a must-have for any woodworker looking for a reliable, easy-to-handle tool for light to medium-duty cutting tasks. Its excellent balance of power, weight, and usability makes it a top choice in its class.

For those interested in purchasing the CS-590 Timber Wolf, I’ve provided a link to the seller below:
Ace Hardware: STIHL MS 170 16 in. 30.1 cc Gas Chainsaw
Acme Tools: Stihl MS 170 Lightweight Gas Powered Chainsaw – 16 In

John Carlos

Forestry Author

The beauty of logging isn't just about felling trees. It's about understanding nature, mastering the art of chainsaws, and respecting the environment. I believe in sharing my experiences and knowledge, ensuring that we move towards a sustainable future together.