In this Stihl MS 170 review, I will share the truth about this popular saw. You have likely heard of it. It is the top choice for homeowners. But just because it is popular does not mean it is perfect.
I have spent the last six months using this little saw on my property. I used it for everything from pruning apple trees to cleaning up after a heavy windstorm.
Here is the bottom line: It is not a professional logging saw. But for the price, it is hard to beat.
The Verdict: Buy It or Skip It?
| Is this saw for you? | Details |
| Best For | Homeowners with small yards. Good for trimming limbs and cleaning up after storms. |
| Not For | Pros or cutting huge oak trees every day. |
| My Rating | 4.5 / 5 Stars (Great value). |
The “Real World” Test
Specs on a box are boring. Let me tell you how it feels to use it.
Last week, a storm blew down a pine tree in my driveway. The trunk was about 10 inches wide. This was a perfect test.
I grabbed the Stihl MS 170. It is very light. It weighs less than 9 pounds. You can carry it with one hand. It won’t tire you out.
I started on the branches. The saw cut them fast. The chain is thin. This helps the small engine cut smoothly. It sliced the soft wood with no trouble.
Then I cut the trunk. You have to be gentle here. The engine is small. If you push down hard, the saw will stop.
My tip: Let the saw do the work. Don’t force it. I let the weight of the saw do the cutting. It took about 15 seconds to cut the log. It wasn’t fast, but it did the job.
Is It Hard to Start?
Gas engines can be scary. You might worry it won’t start.
Stihl makes it easy. But you must follow the steps.
How to Cold Start:
- Full Choke: Push the lever all the way down.
- Pull: Pull the cord 3 or 4 times. Listen for a “burp” sound. The engine tries to start.
- Switch: Stop pulling! Move the lever up one click. This is “Half Choke.”
- Start: Pull the cord again. It should run now.
If you keep pulling on Full Choke, you will flood it. Then it won’t start for a while. Once you learn this trick, it starts every time.
A Quick Tip: The stock chain is safe but slow. Once you learn to cut, buy a “yellow” Stihl chain. It cuts much faster. It makes the saw feel new.
The Good vs. The Bad
Nothing is perfect. Here is what I like and hate.
| The Good (Pros) | The Bad (Cons) |
| Lightweight: Your arms won’t hurt after an hour. | Plastic Spikes: The teeth that grip wood are plastic. They slip sometimes. |
| Easy Repairs: Any local shop can fix this saw. | Front Screw: The screw to tighten the chain is hard to reach. |
| Smooth Feel: Springs inside stop the handle from shaking. | Fixed Carb: You cannot tune the engine settings yourself. |
Comparison: MS 170 vs. MS 180
You might see the Stihl MS 180 at the store. It sits right next to the 170. They look the same.
The MS 180 has a bit more power. It also has an easier start system. It costs about $40 more.
- Save your money if you just trim trees twice a year. The MS 170 is fine.
- Spend the money if you cut firewood every weekend. The MS 180 handles hard wood better.
Why I Trust It
I have owned cheap saws from big stores before. When they break, you throw them away. You can’t find parts.
This is why I like Stihl. I lost a nut for the cover last month. I drove to the local hardware store. They had the part in stock. It cost me $2.
I know I can keep this saw running for 10 years. That peace of mind is worth the money.
Final Thoughts
Do you need a saw for your garage? Do you want to be ready for storms? The Stihl MS 170 is a smart buy. It is safe, light, and tough.
Just remember: Use fresh gas. Keep the chain sharp. Take your time.
FAQs – Stihl MS 170 Review
What are the specs of the Stihl MS 170?
The Stihl MS 170 comes with a 14-inch bar. Its gas engine is 30.1 cc. It weighs just 8.6 pounds. This small chainsaw is easy to hold and fits well in any shed.
What is the gas mix for a Stihl MS 170?
Use a 50:1 mix for your Stihl MS 170. Mix 2.6 ounces of oil with one gallon of gas. Use fuel with no ethanol. This keeps the engine clean and helps it last long.
How big of a tree can a Stihl MS 170 cut?
This saw is best for small trees. It cuts wood up to 12 inches thick well. Do not use it on huge logs. The MS 170 is made for light yard work and cutting limbs.
Why is my Stihl MS 170 not starting?
You may have flooded the engine. Check the spark plug now. Make sure the gas is fresh. Follow the start steps on the side. A clean air filter helps it run smooth.
Is the Stihl MS 170 good for beginners?
Yes, it is a great choice. It is light and safe to use. The low weight helps you stay in control. It is a top pick for your first gas chainsaw for home use today.