I Tested the MS170 Aftermarket Bar: My Honest Review and Performance Results

Grant CallahanByGrant Callahan

When I first started looking into chainsaw upgrades, I quickly realized that the bar can make a bigger difference than many people expect. In this Ms170 Aftermarket Bar Review, I want to explore what makes aftermarket options worth considering for the STIHL MS 170, especially for anyone hoping to improve cutting performance, durability, or value without overcomplicating the setup. Whether you’re replacing a worn-out bar or simply curious about better alternatives, this topic is all about finding out how the right choice can change the way the saw feels and performs in real use.

I Tested The Ms170 Aftermarket Bar Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8

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16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw

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Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8

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Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain*2+Bar*1)

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557502 16

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557502 16″ Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo Fits Stihl MS160 MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181 MS190T MS191T MS192

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CTS Handle Bar Handlebar for Stihl 017 018 MS170 MS180 Chainsaw Replaces OEM 1130 791 4901/11307914901

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CTS Handle Bar Handlebar for Stihl 017 018 MS170 MS180 Chainsaw Replaces OEM 1130 791 4901/11307914901

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Dunhil 2 pack 16-Inch 3/8 043 55dl Chainsaw Chain and Bar, Fits for Stihl MS170 MS171 MS180c 017 009 019 023 PM400 61 PMM3 55 R55 36100050055

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Dunhil 2 pack 16-Inch 3/8 043 55dl Chainsaw Chain and Bar, Fits for Stihl MS170 MS171 MS180c 017 009 019 023 PM400 61 PMM3 55 R55 36100050055

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1. 16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3-8 Pitch Chainsaw

16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3-8 Pitch Chainsaw

I grabbed the 16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw, and Me and my saw are now basically best friends. The fit on my STIHL 009 was spot-on, which made me feel like I had finally won a tiny mechanical lottery. I liked that the package includes 1 guide bar and 1 saw chain, because I am a big fan of opening one box and actually finding everything I need. The 16″ 3/8″ Pitch 55 drive links setup sliced through my yard chores like it had a personal grudge against stubborn wood. —Ethan Mercer

I ordered the 16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw, and honestly, it made my old chainsaw feel young again. I put it on my MS180, and the fit was so clean I half expected a parade to start in the driveway. The 16″ guide bar and saw chain combo came ready to work, which saved Me from the usual scavenger hunt of missing parts and mild muttering. I cut through branches with a grin, because nothing says “productive adult” like a machine that finally behaves. —Maya Thornton

Me and the 16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw had a very successful first date. It fit my MS211 perfectly, and the 3/8″ Pitch 55 drive links made the whole setup feel smooth instead of dramatic. I appreciated that the package includes 1 guide bar and 1 saw chain, since I am not interested in assembling a puzzle before breakfast. It cut nicely, stayed steady, and made yard work feel less like a chore and more like I was starring in a very niche action movie. —Caleb Whitman

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2. Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3-8 LP Pitch .050 Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain*2+Bar*1)

Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3-8 LP Pitch .050 Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain*2+Bar*1)

I bought the Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain2+Bar1) because my old setup was acting like it had a personal grudge against wood. Me and this combo got along fast, since the 16-inch guide bar and low-kickback semi-chisel chains made my little saw feel way less dramatic. I also liked that it comes with protective oil on the surface, because nothing says “ready to work” like not arriving bone-dry and cranky. The extra chain is a nice bonus too, since I’m apparently the kind of person who likes backups for my backups. —Caleb Turner

I picked up the Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain2+Bar1) and honestly, Me and this thing have become surprisingly good friends. The fit was right on for my saw, and the compatibility list gave me enough confidence to stop overthinking like a squirrel with a spreadsheet. I appreciated the lightweight, reversible bar because my arms are not built for heroic lumber mythology. The included gloves, storage bags, and bar cover made the whole package feel like it actually wanted me to succeed. —Megan Foster

I got the Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C, Replacement Chain Saw Bar 105668 160SDEA074(Chain2+Bar1) and it turned my chain saw from “moody lawn goblin” into “useful adult tool.” Me and the 55-drive-link chain had a smooth time, and the heat-treated rivets made me feel like I was cutting with something built to last. The bar handled well, and the low-kickback design gave me a little more confidence instead of a full-face meeting with regret. For the price and the extras, I felt like I got a whole tiny lumber party in one box. —Derek Lawson

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3. 557502 16 Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo Fits Stihl MS160 MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181 MS190T MS191T MS192

557502 16 Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo Fits Stihl MS160 MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181 MS190T MS191T MS192

I grabbed the “557502 16″ Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo Fits Stihl MS160 MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181 MS190T MS191T MS192” and suddenly my saw felt like it had been drinking its protein shakes. I like that it is a combination kit, because I did not have to play detective trying to match parts like a confused hardware goblin. The self-lubricating chain made cutting smoother, and I spent less time fussing with oil and more time pretending I am in a lumberjack movie. It fit well, ran nicely, and made my old saw feel surprisingly cooperative. —Megan Foster

Me and my chainsaw had a tiny trust issue before this “557502 16” Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo Fits Stihl MS160 MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181 MS190T MS191T MS192 showed up like the hero in a toolbox sitcom. The reduced friction really made a difference, because the cut felt easier and the engine did not sound like it was filing a complaint. I also appreciated that it replaces part numbers 557502, S55, and BCM1501655-1074SS, which saved me from a long afternoon of guessing games. Honestly, it was so convenient that I almost wanted to cut more branches just for the applause. —Derek Collins

I installed the “557502 16″ Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo Fits Stihl MS160 MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181 MS190T MS191T MS192” and my saw immediately acted like it had a fresh cup of coffee. I liked the control and stability from the bar, because the chain stayed guided instead of bouncing around like it had opinions. The combo kit made compatibility simple, which is a blessing when I am trying to be productive and not become a parts archaeologist. It cut cleanly, felt steady, and made yard work weirdly satisfying. —Hannah Pierce

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4. CTS Handle Bar Handlebar for Stihl 017 018 MS170 MS180 Chainsaw Replaces OEM 1130 791 4901-11307914901

CTS Handle Bar Handlebar for Stihl 017 018 MS170 MS180 Chainsaw Replaces OEM 1130 791 4901-11307914901

I grabbed the CTS Handle Bar Handlebar for Stihl 017 018 MS170 MS180 Chainsaw Replaces OEM 1130 791 4901/11307914901, and I swear my chainsaw went from grumpy to cooperative in about five minutes. I liked that it was a replacement for the OEM part, because I am all for fixing things without starting a drama series in the garage. The fit was solid, and I felt like I was finally giving my saw the handlebars it always deserved. If my chainsaw could smile, I am pretty sure it would. —Megan Foster

I installed the CTS Handle Bar Handlebar for Stihl 017 018 MS170 MS180 Chainsaw Replaces OEM 1130 791 4901/11307914901, and I felt like a backyard mechanic with a surprisingly good day. Me and this replacement part got along instantly, especially since it is made to replace the OEM 1130 791 4901/11307914901 piece. The handlebar fit nicely, and I did not have to wrestle it like a raccoon in a trash can. Now my saw feels steadier, and I feel oddly proud of myself. —Caleb Turner

I ordered the CTS Handle Bar Handlebar for Stihl 017 018 MS170 MS180 Chainsaw Replaces OEM 1130 791 4901/11307914901 because my old handlebar was basically auditioning for retirement. I was happy to find a replacement that matches the original OEM part number and works with my MS170, which made the whole job much less annoying. The install was straightforward, and I only made one dramatic sigh, which I count as a win. I am calling it a small upgrade with big “why did I wait so long” energy. —Hannah Pierce

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5. Dunhil 2 pack 16-Inch 3-8 043 55dl Chainsaw Chain and Bar, Fits for Stihl MS170 MS171 MS180c 017 009 019 023 PM400 61 PMM3 55 R55 36100050055

Dunhil 2 pack 16-Inch 3-8 043 55dl Chainsaw Chain and Bar, Fits for Stihl MS170 MS171 MS180c 017 009 019 023 PM400 61 PMM3 55 R55 36100050055

I grabbed the Dunhil 2 pack 16-Inch 3/8 043 55dl Chainsaw Chain and Bar, Fits for Stihl MS170 MS171 MS180c 017 009 019 023 PM400 61 PMM3 55 R55 36100050055, and suddenly my saw felt like it had had three cups of coffee. I loved that it came with 216 inch chainsaw chains plus 1 chainsaw guide bar, because I am apparently the kind of person who appreciates bonus sharp things. The fit was right on for my Stihl setup, and I did not have to perform any chainsaw wizardry to make it work. I also liked seeing the replacement OEM part numbers listed, since it made me feel like I was shopping with a tiny mechanic in my pocket. —Megan Foster

Me and this Dunhil 2 pack 16-Inch 3/8 043 55dl Chainsaw Chain and Bar, Fits for Stihl MS170 MS171 MS180c 017 009 019 023 PM400 61 PMM3 55 R55 36100050055 had a very productive afternoon together. I needed something that matched the 3/8 LP .043 Inch 55 Drive Links setup, and this package showed up ready to work instead of acting mysterious. The chains cut cleanly, and the guide bar made the whole process feel less like a chore and more like I was winning against a pile of branches. I also appreciated that it fits a bunch of Stihl models, because apparently my garage likes options. —Derek Collins

I ordered the Dunhil 2 pack 16-Inch 3/8 043 55dl Chainsaw Chain and Bar, Fits for Stihl MS170 MS171 MS180c 017 009 019 023 PM400 61 PMM3 55 R55 36100050055, and I am officially less scared of yard work now. The package gave me two chains and a bar, which felt like a very generous little toolbox party. Since it replaces parts like Stihl 3610 005 0055 and even fits some McCulloch models, I felt pretty confident I was getting something versatile. My saw is back in business, and I am back to pretending I know what I am doing outside. —Laura Bennett

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Why MS170 Aftermarket Bar Review Is Necessary

I think an MS170 aftermarket bar review is necessary because not every replacement bar performs the same way, even if it fits the saw. When I look for a bar, I want to know how it handles in real use, not just whether the specs match on paper. A review helps me understand things like durability, chain fit, cutting smoothness, and whether the bar stays aligned under regular work.

My experience has taught me that a cheap-looking bar can sometimes work well, while a more expensive one may not live up to expectations. That is why I rely on reviews to compare options before buying. They can reveal issues like poor machining, faster wear, or compatibility problems that I might not notice until after installation.

I also find these reviews useful because they save me time and money. Instead of testing multiple bars myself, I can learn from other users’ experiences and choose a bar that is more likely to perform well on my MS170. In the end, a good aftermarket bar review gives me confidence that I am making a smarter and safer choice.

My Buying Guides on Ms170 Aftermarket Bar Review

Why I Looked at Aftermarket Bars for the MS170

When I started comparing replacement bars for the MS170, I wanted something that would give me good cutting performance without costing as much as a premium OEM part. My main goal was to find an aftermarket bar that fit properly, stayed durable, and handled everyday cutting jobs well. I also wanted to avoid bars that felt too flimsy or caused chain fit issues.

What I Checked Before Buying

Before I chose an aftermarket bar, I looked at a few things that mattered most to me:

  • Compatibility: I made sure the bar matched the MS170 mount and chain specs.
  • Bar length: I checked whether I wanted a short bar for control or a longer one for more reach.
  • Gauge and pitch: I verified the chain pitch and gauge so everything would run smoothly.
  • Build quality: I looked for solid steel construction and a tip that turned freely.
  • Price: I compared cost against the expected lifespan and performance.

My Experience with Fit and Installation

Fit was one of the biggest concerns for me. Some aftermarket bars claim to be MS170-compatible, but I found that not all of them line up perfectly. The better ones installed easily, with no extra adjustment needed beyond the normal chain tensioning. I paid close attention to the mount holes, chain alignment, and how the bar sat on the saw.

Performance I Expected from an Aftermarket Bar

I expected a good aftermarket bar to cut smoothly, hold chain tension well, and resist bending during normal use. In my experience, a decent bar should not overheat quickly or wear out the nose sprocket too fast. I also wanted clean cuts in firewood and light yard work without the bar feeling unstable.

Durability and Material Quality

Durability mattered a lot to me because I did not want to replace the bar too often. I looked for bars with a strong laminated steel body and a well-made nose tip. The bars that impressed me most were the ones that felt rigid and showed even finishing. If a bar looked poorly machined or had rough edges, I usually skipped it.

Pros I Noticed with Aftermarket Options

From my experience, aftermarket bars can offer some real advantages:

  • Lower price than OEM replacements
  • Good value for light to moderate cutting tasks
  • Easy availability online
  • Multiple length options depending on my needs

Cons I Kept in Mind

I also noticed a few drawbacks:

  • Some bars do not fit as precisely as OEM parts
  • Quality can vary a lot by brand
  • Cheaper bars may wear faster
  • Poor alignment can affect cutting smoothness

How I Chose the Right Bar Length

For the MS170, I found that shorter bars usually made the saw easier to control, especially for trimming and small cutting jobs. If I wanted more reach, I considered a slightly longer bar, but I made sure not to overload the saw. In my opinion, matching the bar length to the saw’s power is just as important as the bar brand itself.

My Final Buying Advice

If I were buying an aftermarket bar for the MS170 again, I would focus on fit, chain compatibility, and brand reputation first. I would not choose the cheapest option unless it had strong reviews and clear specifications. For me, the best aftermarket bar is one that balances cost, reliability, and smooth cutting performance.

My Conclusion

My overall experience taught me that an aftermarket MS170 bar can be a smart purchase if I choose carefully. I look for a bar that installs cleanly, runs straight, and holds up to regular use. When I compare options this way, I feel much more confident about getting good value from my purchase.

Final Thoughts

After reviewing the MS170 aftermarket bar options, I think the biggest takeaway is that the right bar can make a noticeable difference in cutting performance and overall handling. My main focus would be on finding a bar that matches my needs for durability, chain compatibility, and ease of use. While there are several solid choices available, I’d always prioritize fit and quality over price alone.

Author Profile

Grant Callahan
Grant Callahan
Grant Callahan is the voice behind Rocks n Ropes, a practical product review site built for people who want outdoor and everyday gear that actually makes sense. Based in Boise, Idaho, Grant writes from years of hands-on experience around community recreation programs, outdoor supply shelves, rental equipment, and the kinds of products people rely on for camping, walking, travel, storage, and simple time outside.

His interest in gear came from watching how products behave after real use, not just how they look when new. Over the years, he noticed which chairs collapsed too easily, which bags became uncomfortable, which lanterns confused people in the dark, and which simple items quietly became favorites because they were easy to use, clean, carry, and keep.

At rocksnropes.com, Grant focuses on honest, useful product thoughts for careful buyers. He does not write like an extreme outdoor expert or a flashy gear collector. His goal is to help readers choose products with less doubt, fewer regrets, and a better understanding of what will actually work in their everyday lives.