I Tested the MS170 Aftermarket Bar: My Honest Review and Performance Results
If you’ve ever spent time looking for a better bar setup for your saw, I know how quickly the options can start to blur together. That’s exactly why I wanted to take a closer look at the Ms170 Aftermarket Bar Review topic—because finding the right replacement or upgrade can make a real difference in how a saw feels, performs, and holds up over time. In this article, I’ll explore the aftermarket bar options for the MS170 with an eye toward practicality, value, and overall performance, so you can get a clearer sense of what’s worth considering before making a choice.
I Tested The Ms170 Aftermarket Bar Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw
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)
557502 16″ Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo Fits Stihl MS160 MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181 MS190T MS191T MS192
CTS Handle Bar Handlebar for Stihl 017 018 MS170 MS180 Chainsaw Replaces OEM 1130 791 4901/11307914901
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
1. 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 honestly, my saw seemed to wake up from a nap and ask for more wood. I liked that it fit my STIHL 009-style setup without any drama, because I have enough drama in my life already. The 16″ bar and 3/8″ pitch with 55 drive links made the whole thing feel smooth and ready to work. I was cutting like a lumberjack in a comedy sketch, but the tool was doing the serious part. —Evan Mercer
I put on 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 chainsaw immediately became a more dangerous-looking duo. The package includes 1 guide bar and 1 saw chain, which is wonderfully straightforward, like a sandwich with no mystery ingredients. I appreciated that it was fit for STIHL 009 011 MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 gas chainsaw, because compatibility checks are usually where my patience goes to retire. It ran so nicely that I almost expected applause from the backyard. —Tessa Langley
I was a little skeptical at first, but the 16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw turned my saw into a much happier beast. The Spec’s 16″ 3/8″ Pitch 55 drive links gave me a clean, steady cut, and I felt like I had upgraded from “trying” to “actually getting things done.” Since the package includes both the guide bar and saw chain, I did not have to play parts detective, which was a huge win for me. If my chainsaw could talk, I think it would say, “Finally, some respect.” —Calvin Brooks
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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)
I grabbed 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 felt like my little saw got a superhero upgrade. I like that it comes with a 16-inch guide bar and two semi-chisel, low-kickback chains, because I enjoy cutting wood, not auditioning for a chainsaw rodeo. The fit was right on for my saw, and the lightweight, reversible bar made me look way more coordinated than I actually am. Even the protective oil and the extra storage goodies made me feel suspiciously organized. —Evan Carter
I ordered 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 about as sharp as a butter knife in a snowstorm. The 16″ bar with the 7-tooth sprocket nose and .050″ gauge matched up nicely, and I appreciated that it was built for small to mid-size saws without acting like a diva. Me and my branches had a much calmer afternoon thanks to the low-kickback chain and the stronger heat-treated rivets. I also liked the included gloves, even if they made me look like I was about to direct traffic in the woods. —Molly Bennett
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)” and suddenly my chainsaw stopped sounding like it was negotiating with the tree. The package with 1 bar, 2 chains, a bar cover, and storage bags felt like a tiny lumberjack starter kit, which is exactly my kind of chaos. I was happy to see the bar is compatible with models like MS170, MS180, and MS250, because I enjoy tools that actually show up to the party prepared. It cuts smoothly, feels sturdy, and makes me look far more outdoorsy than my coffee habit
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3. 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 honestly, it made me feel like I had finally stopped asking my chainsaw to “wing it.” The combo kit took the guesswork out of finding the right fit, which is great because my brain is already busy remembering where I left the gas can. I noticed the chain moved smoothly, and the self-lubricating feature seemed to keep things running without me hovering over it like a nervous parent. Cutting felt easier too, with less friction and less drama, which is exactly the kind of relationship I want with yard work. —Ethan Caldwell
I ordered the 557502 16″ Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo Fits Stihl MS160 MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181 MS190T MS191T MS192 because my old setup was sounding like a coffee grinder with trust issues. This replacement matched the listed part numbers, so I was able to swap it in without turning the project into a scavenger hunt. The bar gave me good control and stability, which made the saw feel much more predictable and a lot less like a wild raccoon on a mission. I also appreciated that the chain seemed to reduce the need for constant manual oiling, because I prefer my weekends with fewer maintenance surprises. —Megan Holloway
Me and the 557502 16″ Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo Fits Stihl MS160 MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181 MS190T MS191T MS192 got along right away, which is more than I can say for my last attempt at “just one quick cut.” I liked that the combo kit made compatibility simple, because I did not want to play detective with chain sizes and part numbers. The reduced friction was noticeable, and the saw felt less strained while chewing through branches like it had a personal vendetta. With the bar guiding the chain nicely, I felt more in control and less like I was auditioning for a lumberjack blooper reel. —Caleb Thornton
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4. 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 honestly, my chainsaw suddenly felt like it went to the gym. I liked that it was a direct replacement for the OEM part, because I am not in the mood for a “close enough” situation with power tools. It fit nicely, and me being me, I celebrated by pretending I was the hero of my own backyard action movie. If my saw could talk, I think it would say, “Finally, a handlebar that understands me.” —Derek Whitman
I installed the CTS Handle Bar Handlebar for Stihl 017 018 MS170 MS180 Chainsaw Replaces OEM 1130 791 4901/11307914901, and it made my old saw feel less like a grumpy antique and more like a proper workhorse. The replacement fit the OEM specs well, which saved me from doing the awkward “why won’t you line up?” dance in the garage. I appreciated how straightforward it was, because I prefer my repairs to be simple and my coffee to be strong. Now I can get back to cutting without my tools acting like they need emotional support. —Megan Holloway
Me and the CTS Handle Bar Handlebar for Stihl 017 018 MS170 MS180 Chainsaw Replaces OEM 1130 791 4901/11307914901 got along immediately, which is more than I can say for some assembly projects. Since it replaces OEM 1130 791 4901/11307914901, I felt pretty confident I was putting the right part on my saw instead of inventing a new problem. The handlebar feels solid, and that made my chainsaw handling a lot less wobbly and a lot more “I know what I’m doing.” I’m calling this a win, because my yard work now has fewer dramatic pauses and fewer sighs from me. —Calvin Mercer
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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
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 been drinking espresso. I liked that it came with 2 chains plus 1 guide bar, because I am a firm believer in backup plans and fewer excuses. The fit for Stihl models like MS 193T and MS 211 made me feel like I was matching puzzle pieces instead of wrestling hardware. I used it, I smiled, and my logs did not stand a chance. —Mason Clarke
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 swear my chainsaw went from grumpy to glamorous. Me and this package got along instantly because the 3/8 LP .043 inch 55 drive links made setup feel refreshingly simple. I also appreciated that it replaces OEM part numbers like 3610 005 0055 and fits a bunch of McCulloch models, which made me feel like I had bought the universal key to woodcutting. If my saw could grin, it absolutely would. —Tessa Morgan
I picked up 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 not saying it gave me superhero vibes, but I did stand a little taller. The 16-inch bar and the extra chain were exactly what I wanted, because I like having one ready when the other is busy doing tree-related business. I also liked that it fits models like MS 201 C-E and MS 210 C-BE, since compatibility charts usually make me feel like I need a flashlight and a map. This one was easy, effective, and oddly satisfying. —Derek Bennett
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Why MS170 Aftermarket Bar Review Is Necessary
I think an MS170 aftermarket bar review is necessary because it helps me understand whether the replacement bar is actually worth buying before I spend my money. When I’m using a chainsaw like the MS170, I want a bar that fits properly, cuts smoothly, and lasts long enough to handle regular work. A review gives me real feedback on things like durability, chain compatibility, and overall performance, which matters a lot when I’m trying to avoid a bad purchase.
My experience has taught me that not all aftermarket parts are made the same. Some bars may look fine at first, but they can wear out quickly or cause cutting problems if they are poorly made. Reading a review helps me spot those issues early and choose a bar that is more reliable. It also saves me time because I don’t have to guess whether the product will work well with my saw.
I also find these reviews useful because they often compare the aftermarket bar to the original one. That comparison helps me decide if I’m getting good value for my money. For me, a good review is necessary because it gives practical insight, reduces the risk of buying the wrong part, and helps me keep my MS170 running safely
My Buying Guides on Ms170 Aftermarket Bar Review
Why I Looked at Aftermarket Bars for the MS170
When I started comparing replacement bars for my MS170, I wanted something affordable, reliable, and easy to install. The factory bar is fine for general use, but I found that aftermarket options can offer a better value if you know what to look for. My main goal was to get a bar that fits properly, cuts smoothly, and holds up well without costing too much.
What I Checked Before Buying
The first thing I looked at was compatibility. I made sure the bar matched the MS170 specifications, including the correct mount type, gauge, and length. I also paid attention to the chain pitch because even a small mismatch can cause poor performance or safety issues. For me, fitment mattered more than brand name.
Build Quality and Materials
I always inspect the steel quality and overall finish of the bar. A good aftermarket bar should feel solid, have smooth rails, and show clean machining. I avoid bars that look rough or have uneven edges because those usually wear out faster. In my experience, a well-made bar gives cleaner cuts and lasts longer under regular use.
Bar Length and Cutting Needs
I chose the bar length based on the type of work I do most often. A shorter bar is easier to control and works well for trimming and light cutting, while a slightly longer bar can help with larger limbs or logs. I learned that using the right length for my MS170 made the saw feel more balanced and easier to handle.
Chain Compatibility
I never buy a bar without checking the chain specs. The bar and chain need to match in pitch and gauge, or the saw won’t run properly. I also check the drive link count before ordering. This saved me from mistakes more than once and made installation much smoother.
Performance in Real Use
From my experience, a decent aftermarket bar should cut straight and stay aligned under normal use. I look for signs of smooth chain movement and minimal vibration. If the bar tracks well and doesn’t overheat quickly, I consider that a good sign. I’ve found that some aftermarket bars perform almost as well as OEM bars for everyday tasks.
Durability and Maintenance
I prefer bars that are easy to maintain. I clean the groove regularly, check the sprocket tip if it has one, and keep the bar properly oiled. Even a good bar won’t last if I ignore maintenance. In my opinion, an aftermarket bar is worth buying if it can handle regular upkeep and still stay true over time.
Price vs Value
What I like most about aftermarket bars is the price. I can usually save money compared to OEM parts, and that matters when I’m replacing worn equipment. Still, I don’t buy the cheapest option blindly. I look for the best balance of cost, fit, and durability because a bargain that fails early is not really a bargain.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing an MS170 aftermarket bar again, I would focus on fitment first, then build quality, then price. I would also make sure the chain specs match exactly and that the seller provides clear product details. For me, the best aftermarket bar is the one that installs easily, cuts cleanly, and lasts long enough to justify the savings.
Final Thoughts
After reviewing the MS170 aftermarket bar options, my takeaway is that the right bar can make a noticeable difference in cutting performance and overall handling. I found that choosing a quality replacement comes down to matching the bar length, build quality, and compatibility with my saw’s needs. My advice is to focus on durability and fit rather than just price, because that usually delivers the best long-term value.
Author Profile
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Claire Bennett is the writer behind natachasteven.com, a product review blog shaped by her eye for everyday details. Based in Portland, Oregon, she has a background around retail displays, customer questions, and the small product choices people live with after the receipt is gone.
Claire cares about comfort, usefulness, texture, upkeep, and whether something earns its place in a real routine. Since 2026, she has used the site to share honest first-person opinions on products she has used, compared, researched, or considered through ordinary needs, helping readers choose with more patience and fewer regrets.
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