I have spent a lot of time looking at outdoor power gear lately. I really like knowing how my tools work before I buy them. Recently, I had to make a choice. I needed a light saw for yard work and firewood.
The choice was between a classic and a newcomer.
On one hand, you have the Stihl MS 170. It has been the “go-to” saw for homeowners for years. On the other hand, you have the new Stihl MS 162. It is here to replace the older model.
I got my hands on both. I wanted to see if the new features are worth the extra weight.
Here is what I found out.
The First Impression: Weight vs. Comfort
I picked up the MS 170 first. It felt great. It is very light. The engine weighs just 8.6 lbs. You can carry it all day. Your arms won’t get tired. If you hike into the woods, this weight saves your back.
Then I grabbed the MS 162. I noticed the difference right away. It is heavier. It weighs about 9.9 lbs. That is over a pound of extra weight. It might not sound like much. But you feel it after twenty minutes of cutting.
However, the MS 162 feels solid. It feels like a modern tool. The plastic is tough. The grip fits my hand well.
| Feature | Stihl MS 170 | Stihl MS 162 |
| Powerhead Weight | 8.6 lbs (3.9 kg) | 9.9 lbs (4.5 kg) |
| Handling Feel | Very light and nimble | Solid and planted |
| Best For | Climbing or hiking | lengthy ground work |
| Build Quality | Classic functional design | Modern, robust casing |
The Big Upgrade: No More Knuckle Busting
If you have used the MS 170, you know the struggle. The chain tensioner is on the front. It sits right next to the bar and the hot muffler. I hate adjusting it. You have to jam your tool in at a weird angle. It is easy to slip and hit your hand on the sharp chain.
The MS 162 fixes this.
Stihl moved the tensioner to the side. It goes right through the cover. This is a huge win. I could tighten the chain in seconds. I did not worry about burning my fingers. As someone who likes good design, this change makes me happy.
Vibration: Rubber vs. Springs
This is where the tech comes in.
The MS 170 uses rubber buffers to stop shaking. They work okay. But you still feel the engine buzz in your hands.
The MS 162 uses steel springs. This is the same system used on big pro saws.
I cut through a dry oak log to test it. The difference was clear. The MS 162 was much smoother. The “floating” feeling saved my hands from tingling. If you have stiff joints, this is a big deal.
| Comparison Point | Stihl MS 170 | Stihl MS 162 |
| Dampening Tech | Rubber Buffers | Steel Springs |
| Hand Feel | noticeable buzz/tingle | Smooth and “floating” |
| Long-term Use | Rubber can harden/crack | Springs stay consistent |
| Comfort Level | Good for short tasks | Great for longer jobs |
Starting and Running: Stihl MS 162 vs MS 170
It was a cold morning when I tested these. I followed the standard start steps.
The MS 170 took a few pulls. It has separate levers for choke and run. It is simple, but old school.
The MS 162 has a Master Control Lever. It is one switch for everything. It snaps back to the “run” spot on its own. It fired up quickly. The engine sound is crisp. The new engine cuts smog, which is nice. It also felt snappy in the cut.
One nice detail on the MS 162 is the clear fuel tank. I could see exactly how much gas I had left. No more guessing.
| Feature | Stihl MS 170 | Stihl MS 162 |
| Controls | Separate choke/run levers | Single Master Lever |
| Choke Reset | Manual | Automatic snap-back |
| Fuel Tank | Solid White (Cant see fuel) | Translucent (Easy to check) |
| Engine Type | Standard 2-Mix | Optimized 2-Mix |
My Final Verdict
So, which one wins?
I have a soft spot for the MS 170. It is light and simple. If you want the lightest saw for quick limb trimming, it is still a beast.
But for my money, the MS 162 is the better tool.
Yes, it is heavier. But the side chain adjuster and the spring system make it a joy to use. It feels safer. It feels smoother. It feels like a tool built for today.
If you are buying your first saw now, get the MS 162. The comfort is worth the extra pound.
FAQs – Stihl MS 162 vs MS 170
Is the Stihl MS 162 easier to use than the MS 170?
Yes, the Stihl MS 162 is much more user-friendly. It features a side tensioner that is safe and easy to reach. The older MS 170 has a front screw that is awkward to use.
Why is the Stihl MS 170 lighter than the MS 162?
The MS 170 is lighter because of its older, simpler design. The new Stihl MS 162 adds robust springs and features. This adds a little weight but makes the tool far more comfortable.
Can I still buy the Stihl MS 170 brand new?
You might find a new Stihl MS 170 on a shelf, but it is rare. Stihl is replacing the classic model with the MS 162. It is becoming much harder to find the older saw in stock.
Does the Stihl MS 162 have more power than the MS 170?
No, the MS 170 actually has slightly more raw power. However, the Stihl MS 162 is tuned very well for wood. Most users will not feel a big difference when cutting limbs.