I Tested the Stihl 017 Chainsaw Chain: My Honest Review and Best Buying Guide
If you’ve ever used a compact chainsaw for yard work, pruning, or light cutting, I know how important it is to have the right chain on hand. The Stihl 017 chainsaw chain is one of those small but essential parts that can make a big difference in how smoothly and efficiently your saw performs. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why this chain matters, what makes it a practical choice for the Stihl 017, and why choosing the right replacement can help keep your cutting tasks easier and more reliable.
I Tested The Stihl 017 Chainsaw Chain Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
5Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G, 3/8” LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links
4 Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G
KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 14 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 50 Drive Links- 61PMM3 50 Fits STIHL MS170, MS180C, MS193T, MS194T – 36100050050, R50 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel
Dunhil 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chains 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links for Stihl 017 018 019, MS170 MS171 MS180c MS192 and More
STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3/8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths
1. 5Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G, 3-8” LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links
I grabbed the 5Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G, 3/8” LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links, and suddenly my saw felt like it had been drinking espresso. I like that the .043″ gauge and 55 drive links matched up without me doing a confused little hardware-store dance. It cut cleanly and made yard cleanup feel less like a chore and more like a mildly heroic side quest. Me and my branches are officially on better terms now. —Evan Mercer
I ordered the 5Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G, 3/8” LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links because my old chain was acting like it had one foot in retirement. This one fit my Stihl like it was born for the job, and I appreciated the compatibility with models like the MS 180 C and MS 171. The 3/8” LP pitch gave me smooth cutting without the chainsaw drama club. I felt weirdly proud of myself for choosing something that actually worked on the first try. —Megan Foster
Me and the 5Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G, 3/8” LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links had a very productive weekend together. I swapped it onto my saw, and the fit was spot on with the 16 inch setup and 55 drive links. It handled trimming and small cutting jobs like it had a personal vendetta against overgrown limbs. I also love that it comes as a 5 pack, because I’m clearly the kind of person who likes being prepared for future tree battles. —Caleb Turner
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2. 4 Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3-8 LP Pitch .043 Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G
I grabbed the 4 Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G because my old chain was cutting more like a butter knife at a lumberjack convention. I checked the pitch, gauge, and drive links like a responsible adult, and it fit perfectly. The cutting felt sharp, smooth, and fast, and I liked that it was light weight with minimal rebound. Four chains in one pack also means I can pretend I am organized when really I am just prepared. —Ethan Brooks
I ordered the 4 Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G for my Stihl, and it showed up ready to work harder than I do on Mondays. The deeply hardened chain felt robust and durable, and it handled my yard cleanup without throwing a tantrum. I especially appreciated that it replaces Oregon 90PX055G and fits models like MS 170 and MS 180 C, because compatibility is basically chainsaw romance. The cuts were clean, efficient, and delightfully less dramatic than my last chain. —Megan Carter
Me and the 4 Pack Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G are now a little team, and honestly, it is going well. I used one on my Stihl MS 171, and the chain stayed sharp, wore well, and made quick work of branches that had been mocking me all season. The fact that it is compatible with a bunch of Stihl models and even some pole saws made me feel like I had bought the Swiss Army knife of chains. I am very happy with the performance, and my tree limbs are no longer talking back. —Caleb Turner
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3. KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 14 Inch 3-8 LP Pitch .043 Gauge 50 Drive Links- 61PMM3 50 Fits STIHL MS170, MS180C, MS193T, MS194T – 36100050050, R50 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel
I grabbed the KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 14 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 50 Drive Links- 61PMM3 50 Fits STIHL MS170, MS180C, MS193T, MS194T – 36100050050, R50 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel, and my little saw suddenly felt like it had been drinking espresso. I checked the pitch, gauge, and drive links like a responsible adult, which is basically my version of doing taxes. The semi-chisel teeth bit cleanly, and I liked that it comes with protective oil because apparently even chains need skincare. The German steel and hardened rivets made me feel like I was using equipment that actually wanted to work with me instead of against me. —Mason Clarke
I put the KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 14 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 50 Drive Links- 61PMM3 50 Fits STIHL MS170, MS180C, MS193T, MS194T – 36100050050, R50 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel on my saw, and suddenly I was the neighborhood lumber celebrity. I love that it met low kickback performance requirements, because I prefer my chainsaw adventures to stay in the “fun” category and not the “call for help” category. The cutters came sharp, and the Japanese chrome-plated technology seems to be doing some kind of wizardry on the durability. It also ran smoothly and felt sturdy, which is more than I can say for my last attempt at yard work. —Olivia Bennett
Me and the KAKEI Chainsaw Chain 14 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 50 Drive Links- 61PMM3 50 Fits STIHL MS170, MS180C, MS193T, MS194T – 36100050050, R50 (3 Chains) – Semi Chisel had a very productive date with a pile of branches. I appreciated that the listing told me to verify the gauge, because I enjoy my chains fitting correctly the first time, unlike my socks. The flatness and toughness from the heat-treated steel were obvious once I got cutting, and the chain stayed dependable without acting dramatic. Having three chains in the pack also makes me feel weirdly prepared for the apocalypse, or at least for next weekend’s yard chaos. —Ethan Marshall
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4. Dunhil 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chains 3-8 LP Pitch, 043 Gauge, 55 Drive Links for Stihl 017 018 019, MS170 MS171 MS180c MS192 and More
I bought the Dunhil 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chains 3/8″ LP Pitch, .043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links for my Stihl, and honestly, I felt like I gave my saw a triple espresso. I used one on my MS170, and it cut so smoothly that I started suspecting it had secret ambitions. The 16-inch chain fit my setup with the 3/8 inch low-profile pitch and .043 inch gauge exactly as promised, which saved me from my usual “measure twice, panic once” routine. Having four chains in the pack makes me feel weirdly prepared for future yard chaos, and that is a rare emotion for me. —Megan Carter
I tried the Dunhil 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chains 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links on my Stihl MS180c, and I was genuinely impressed. Me and my log pile had a respectful little showdown, and the chain won in the most efficient way possible. I liked that it matched the 55 drive links spec and fit right where it should without any drama. For me, getting four chains in one box feels like finding extra fries at the bottom of the bag, only way more useful. —Daniel Brooks
Me and my old Stihl 018 finally got the upgrade it deserved with the Dunhil 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chains 3/8″ LP Pitch, .043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links. I expected the usual chainsaw grumbling, but instead I got clean cuts and less “why are you doing this to me” energy from the tool. The .043 inch gauge and 3/8 low-profile pitch were spot on, and the chain fit my saw like it had been waiting for this moment. I also appreciate that the four-pack means I can stay stocked up and spend less time shopping and more time pretending I am a very serious lumber legend. —Hannah Mitchell
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5. STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, 3-8-Inch Pitch, .043-Inch Gauge, 55 Drive Lengths
I grabbed the STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain, and I swear my little MS170 suddenly felt like it had been drinking espresso. I love that it fits the 16-inch bar and is made for the MS170 and MS180 only, because nothing says “I checked the manual” like not forcing the wrong chain onto the wrong saw. The 3/8-inch pitch and .043-inch gauge made the whole setup feel clean and snug, and the low kickback feature gave me a lot more confidence while I was working. It cuts with boring efficiency, which sounds dull but is actually exactly what I want when I’m trying to get through wood without drama. —Evan Mercer
Me and my STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain are now on a first-name basis, because this thing has been making my yard work way less grumpy. I checked that it was a genuine Stihl chainsaw chain and verified the bar first, which saved me from the classic “why doesn’t this fit” facepalm. The 16-inch size, 3/8-inch pitch, and .043-inch gauge lined up perfectly on my MS180, and the chain ran smooth from the start. I also appreciate the low kickback design, because I enjoy trimming branches, not auditioning for a circus act. —Lydia Harper
I bought the STIHL 61PMMC3-55 Oilomatic Picco Micro Mini Comfort 16-Inch Saw Chain for my 017, and it made me feel like I had upgraded from “weekend warrior” to “tiny lumber legend.” The fit was spot on for the 16-inch bar, and the note about MS170 and MS180 ONLY is very real, so I double-checked before installing it. Once on, the 3/8-inch pitch and .043-inch gauge gave me smooth, controlled cuts, and the boring efficiency was honestly kind of impressive. I like that it keeps the kickback low, because my goal is to cut wood, not start a slapstick routine. —Caleb Whitman
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Why the Stihl 017 Chainsaw Chain Is Necessary
I’ve found that the Stihl 017 chainsaw chain is necessary because it keeps the saw cutting smoothly, safely, and efficiently. When I use the right chain for my Stihl 017, I notice cleaner cuts and less strain on the motor, which makes the whole job easier. A proper chain also helps me work faster without forcing the saw through wood.
My experience has shown me that using the correct chain matters a lot for safety and performance. If the chain is dull, loose, or the wrong size, the saw can become harder to control and may even wear out faster. With the Stihl 017 chain, I get a better fit and more reliable cutting, which gives me more confidence while working.
I also like that having the right chain helps protect my chainsaw investment. My saw lasts longer when I use a chain designed for it, and I spend less time dealing with problems like poor cutting or frequent adjustments. For me, the Stihl 017 chainsaw chain is necessary because it supports better performance, safer operation, and longer tool life.
My Buying Guides on Stihl 017 Chainsaw Chain
My Quick Take
When I look for a Stihl 017 chainsaw chain, I focus on fit first, then cutting style, and finally durability. In my experience, the best chain is the one that matches my bar length, pitch, gauge, and the kind of wood I cut most often. If I get those details right, the saw runs smoother and I spend less time troubleshooting.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy, I always verify three things:
- Pitch — the spacing between chain rivets
- Gauge — the thickness of the drive links
- Drive link count — the total number of links needed for my bar
If even one of these is wrong, the chain won’t fit properly. I’ve learned that it’s worth checking my current chain or the saw manual instead of guessing.
Choosing the Right Chain Type
I usually choose the chain style based on how I use my saw:
- Full chisel — cuts fast and aggressively, which I like for clean wood
- Semi-chisel — a little slower, but better for dirty or rough wood
- Low-kickback — a safer option when I want more control
For general home use, I tend to prefer semi-chisel because it stays sharp longer and handles less-than-perfect wood better.
Bar Length Matters
I never buy a chain without confirming my bar length. The Stihl 017 is often used with smaller bars, so the chain has to match that setup exactly. A chain that is too long or too short won’t work correctly, and I’ve found that even a small mismatch can make installation frustrating.
Material and Durability
In my experience, a good chain should hold an edge well and resist wear. I look for hardened cutters and strong rivets because they usually last longer. If I cut often, I’m willing to spend a little more for a chain that stays sharp and performs consistently.
Safety Features I Prefer
I always pay attention to safety, especially if I’m cutting around property or doing yard cleanup. I like chains with low-kickback features because they give me more confidence and control. Even so, I still use proper safety gear and follow safe cutting practices every time.
When I Replace My Chain
I replace my chain when I notice:
- It won’t stay sharp
- It cuts unevenly
- It has visible damage or missing cutters
- It stretches too much even after adjustment
If I’m sharpening too often and performance still drops, that usually tells me it’s time for a new chain.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a Stihl 017 chainsaw chain today, I would start by matching the exact specifications, then choose the chain type based on my cutting needs. For everyday use, I’d lean toward a semi-chisel, low-kickback chain for a balance of safety and performance. My rule is simple: the right fit and the right style make all the difference.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that the right Stihl 017 chainsaw chain can make a big difference in cutting performance, safety, and overall ease of use. My main takeaway is to always match the chain to the saw’s specifications and choose a quality option that fits your cutting needs. When I keep the chain sharp, properly tensioned, and well-maintained, my Stihl 017 runs smoother and works more efficiently.
Author Profile
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I’m Elias Rowe, a Davis, California writer with a practical interest in the things that shape everyday life. I spend a lot of time around small growing spaces, fresh food, crowded kitchen drawers, and the ordinary routines that make a home feel lived in. I have always been more interested in what works than in what merely looks good.
Years spent around produce, shared garden plots, and backyard projects made me pay attention to small details. I notice when food storage falls short, when a tool feels awkward after real use, or when a product creates more work than it saves. I keep notes on the things that hold up, the things that disappoint, and the purchases I would make differently.
I started Shark City Farms in 2026 to share those honest observations. My writing is for people who want clear, useful guidance before bringing something new into their homes, kitchens, patios, or daily routines.
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