Stihl offers homeowners a great-value option on the 16-inch MS 170 chainsaw
Stihl has a reputation for excellent chainsaws among professional users, but homeowners often don't need that level of performance. They also tend to opt for lighter, more compact saws. Can a professional-focused brand like Stihl meet the needs of homeowners while maintaining its reputation for quality? We took a closer look at the Stihl MS 170 16-Inch Chainsaw to find out.
Check out our pick of the best Stihl chainsaws here!
STIHL MS 170 Chainsaw: Big Deal
This pneumatic Stihl chainsaw has a 16" bar length and is also compatible with 12 or 14" bars. Targeting the homeowner's market, Steele designed it to be more compact and lighter than many professional-grade chainsaws. In fact, its power head weighs only 8.6 lbs.
It's no slouch in the performance department, though. Steele uses a 30.1cc engine producing 1.7 brake horsepower.
Ideal applications include pruning or cutting small trees, fallen branches, and other tasks around the yard. It's perfect for occasional property maintenance and storm cleanup. Steele recommends a maximum diameter of 17 inches.
Additional features
The MS 170 utilizes an IntelliCarb compensating carburetor that automatically adjusts the air-fuel ratio when the air filter becomes clogged or restricted, keeping the engine at the correct rpm without sucking in dirty air to deal with it.
Additionally, STIHL's anti-vibration systems help reduce operator fatigue and provide you with a more comfortable work experience.
When you combine the Ematic Guide Bar with Stihl's Oilomatic Saw Chain (both included with your saw), you'll get proper lubrication and use up to 50% less oil than other designs. The magic is in the slope on the railing. They contain the oil flow while delivering it to the parts that need it.
One area where you will find it different from the Pro model is the fuel and oil capacity. With an 8.5-ounce fuel tank and a 4.9-ounce fuel tank, you'll fill up more often than other models.
The chainsaw retails for $199.99. That's more than you'd pay for a cheap brand at a big box store, but you get a higher quality saw with price support from a local dealer. Stihl backs your purchase with a 1-year warranty.
the bottom line
In its stock 16-inch bare-bones configuration, the Stihl MS 170 has the performance and size a homeowner needs without being overly intimidating. Combined with features inspired by Stihl's line of professional-grade models, and made in the USA from global materials, it's no wonder the MS 170 is one of the best-selling home chainsaws on the market.
Specification
- Model: STIHL MS 170
- Power source: gas
- Pole Length: 16"
- Oilomatic Chain: 3/8"
- Chain oil capacity: 4.9 oz
- Fuel Capacity: 8.5 oz
- Displacement: 30.1cc