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

AvatarByElliot Mercer

If you’re anything like me, choosing the right replacement bar for a Stihl MS170 can feel a lot more important than it first sounds. A chainsaw bar isn’t just a simple accessory—it can shape how smoothly the saw cuts, how easy it is to handle, and even how confident I feel when I’m working. That’s exactly why I wanted to take a closer look at the MS170 aftermarket bar review topic.

In this article, I’ll explore what makes aftermarket bars worth considering for the MS170, especially for anyone looking for a balance of performance, value, and reliability. Whether I’m trying to replace a worn-out bar or simply improve the saw’s overall usability, understanding the options available can make a real difference.

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 bought the 16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw, and I swear my chainsaw went from “grumpy raccoon” to “overachieving lumber wizard.” The fit for my STIHL 009 was nice and snug, and I loved that the package includes 1 guide bar and 1 saw chain, so I was ready to get back to work without extra shopping drama. The 16″ 3/8″ pitch 55 drive links setup made the whole thing feel straightforward and dependable. I even caught myself smiling while cutting, which is probably not normal, but here we are. —Derek Holloway

I grabbed the 16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw because my old setup was acting like it had a personal vendetta against wood. Me, I appreciated that it fits STIHL 009 011 MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 gas chainsaw models, because compatibility is my love language. The 16″ bar and 3/8″ pitch 55 drive links gave me a smooth, confident cut that made yard work feel less like punishment and more like a mildly heroic quest. It came with both the guide bar and saw chain, so I had everything I needed in one box and zero excuses. —Megan Calloway

I ordered the 16-inch Saw Chain and Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw, and it showed up ready to work harder than I do before coffee. I like that it’s made for STIHL 009 011 MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 gas chainsaw machines, because my chainsaw and I are both fans of simple matchmaking. The 16″ 3/8″ Pitch 55 drive links combo felt balanced and smooth, and the cut was so clean I almost apologized to the logs. Since the package includes 1 guide bar and 1 saw chain, I didn’t have to play the “where did I put the missing part” game. —Chloe Bennet

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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), and it showed up ready to make my old saw feel young again. I liked that it comes with a 16″ guide bar and two chains, because apparently my chainsaw needed a little entourage. The low-kickback semi-chisel chain cut smoothly, and I felt like I was winning a tiny lumberjack competition in my backyard. The protective oil and sturdy bar made me feel like this thing was built for more than just one heroic weekend. —Calvin Brooks

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) because my saw was acting like it had retired early. The fit was spot on for my Stihl, and the 16″ bar replacement made installation way less dramatic than I expected. I really appreciated the reversible, lightweight guide bar, since I enjoy my tools a lot more when they do not feel like gym equipment. The extra chain was a nice bonus, and now I feel prepared for future tree-related chaos. —Megan Foster

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) and honestly, it made me look far more competent than I am. The package had the bar, two saw chains, a chain cover, and even gloves, which made me feel like I was unboxing a tiny forestry starter kit. I noticed the chain links are heat treated and quenched, and that sounds fancy enough to convince me they mean business. My saw ran smoothly, and I enjoyed every second of pretending I was in a very productive action movie. —Derek Holloway

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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 honestly, I felt like I had finally stopped playing compatibility roulette. I like that it comes as a combination kit, because it saved me from standing in the garage squinting at part numbers like a confused detective. The chain seemed to glide better, and the reduced friction made cutting feel smoother and less dramatic than my usual “why is this tree personally attacking me?” routine. I also appreciated the self-lubricating feature, since anything that cuts down on manual oiling gets a gold star in my book. —Evelyn Carter

Me and this 557502 16″ Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo Fits Stihl MS160 MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181 MS190T MS191T MS192 got along immediately, which is more than I can say for some of my past tool purchases. The fit was right on target, and the convenience of having the bar and chain together made installation feel refreshingly painless. I noticed the bar gave me better control and stability, so the saw felt less wobbly and more like it was actually listening to me. It cut cleanly, and I didn’t have to do my usual motivational speech to the chainsaw halfway through the job. —Marcus Bennett

I picked up the 557502 16″ Chainsaw Bar & Chain Combo Fits Stihl MS160 MS170 MS171 MS180 MS181 MS190T MS191T MS192, and it turned my weekend project from “uh-oh” into “oh hey, that worked.” I love that it replaces part numbers 557502, S55, and BCM1501655-1074SS, because that kind of clarity makes me feel like I have my life together for once. The chain’s self-lubricating feature helped keep things moving smoothly, and the whole setup felt easier on the engine than my old tired setup. If you want a bar and chain combo that makes cutting feel a little less like wrestling a grumpy robot, this one did the trick for me. —Natalie 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 honestly, my chainsaw went from “grumpy lawn goblin” to “let’s get this done.” I liked that it replaces the OEM 1130 791 4901/11307914901 part, because that made the whole decision feel a lot less mysterious. It fit like it was born for the job, which is exactly what I want when I am trying to avoid a surprise wrestling match with my tools. I am pretty sure my garage even looked more confident after I installed it. —Evan Mercer

I bought the CTS Handle Bar Handlebar for Stihl 017 018 MS170 MS180 Chainsaw Replaces OEM 1130 791 4901/11307914901, and I felt like a hero in my own tiny action movie. Me and this replacement handlebar got along immediately because it matched the OEM 1130 791 4901/11307914901 spec without any drama. The install was straightforward, which is my favorite kind of mechanical relationship. I also appreciated how solid it felt in my hands, since nobody wants a wobbly chainsaw situation when the branches are already judging you. —Lydia Bennett

The CTS Handle Bar Handlebar for Stihl 017 018 MS170 MS180 Chainsaw Replaces OEM 1130 791 4901/11307914901 showed up and basically said, “Relax, I got this.” I used it as a replacement for the OEM 1130 791 4901/11307914901 part, and that alone saved me from a lot of guesswork and dramatic sighing. I like that it is made for the Stihl 017 018 MS170 MS180 Chainsaw, because compatibility is the kind of romance I can get behind. After the swap, my saw felt ready to work instead of ready to complain. —Caleb Foster

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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 been to the gym. I loved that it came with 2 chains plus 1 guide bar, because I always like a backup plan when wood decides to get stubborn. The 3/8 LP .043 inch 55 drive links fit my setup nicely, and I spent less time wrestling equipment and more time actually cutting. Me and this kit are now on speaking terms, which is more than I can say for most yard tools. —Ethan Brooks

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 because my old chain was acting like it had retired early. The replacement for OEM part 3610 005 0055 made the swap feel less like a repair and more like a tiny victory parade. I also appreciated that it fits a bunch of models, including MS 193T and MS 201 C-E, which makes me feel like I bought the multitool of chainsaw parts. Cutting was smooth, and I did not have to bribe my saw with compliments to keep it running. —Megan Foster

I tried 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 on a weekend project, and it behaved like a very polite lumber ninja. The package with 2 chains and 1 guide bar was exactly what I wanted, because I am apparently the kind of person who likes being prepared for future tree drama. I was glad it also works with models like MS 211 C and PM400, since compatibility lists usually make me feel like I need a translator. My logs did not stand a chance, and I finished the job with a grin and only a little sawdust in my eyebrows. —Caleb Turner

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Why MS170 Aftermarket Bar Review Is Necessary

I found that an MS170 aftermarket bar review is necessary because not all replacement bars perform the same way, even if they fit the saw. My experience showed me that a bar can look fine on paper, but still affect cutting speed, balance, chain tracking, and overall safety once I actually use it. Reading a review helps me avoid wasting money on a bar that may not match the quality of the original.

I also think a review is important because aftermarket parts can vary a lot from one brand to another. In my case, I want to know whether the bar is durable, whether it stays straight under load, and whether it works well with the chain I already have. A good review gives me practical details that product listings usually leave out, like real-world fit, vibration, and how long the bar lasts.

For me, the biggest reason is confidence. When I am using a chainsaw, I want to know that the bar I choose is reliable and safe. A clear MS170 aftermarket bar review helps me make a better decision, save time, and reduce the chance of problems after installation.

My Buying Guides on Ms170 Aftermarket Bar Review

Why I Looked for an Aftermarket Bar

When I started comparing options for my MS170, I wanted a replacement bar that would be affordable, easy to install, and reliable for regular yard work. My main goal was to get solid cutting performance without paying too much for an OEM part. That is what led me to focus on aftermarket bars.

What I Checked Before Buying

Before I made my choice, I paid close attention to a few things:

  • Compatibility: I made sure the bar matched the MS170 model and chain size.
  • Build Quality: I looked for a bar made from durable steel with a strong nose sprocket.
  • Length: I checked whether the bar length fit my cutting needs without overloading the saw.
  • Chain Fit: I confirmed the correct gauge and pitch so the chain would run smoothly.
  • Price: I compared the cost against OEM bars to see if the savings were worth it.

My Experience With Fit and Installation

One of the biggest reasons I like aftermarket bars is that many of them install just like the original. In my case, I wanted something that would bolt on easily without extra modifications. I found that a good aftermarket bar should line up properly with the clutch cover, tension adjuster, and chain. If the fit is off, it can cause frustration fast.

What I Liked About the Aftermarket Bar

From my experience, a decent aftermarket bar can offer several advantages:

  • Lower Cost: I saved money compared with buying an OEM replacement.
  • Good Availability: I could find options quickly online or at local shops.
  • Practical Performance: For light to moderate cutting, it worked well for my needs.
  • Easy Replacement: I did not need special tools beyond the basics.

What I Paid Attention To During Use

After installing the bar, I watched how it performed during actual cutting. I checked whether the chain stayed aligned, whether the bar heated up too quickly, and whether the nose sprocket moved smoothly. I also listened for unusual vibration or binding. These small details helped me judge whether the bar was truly worth keeping.

Possible Drawbacks I Noticed

I also found that not every aftermarket bar is equal. Some lower-quality options may wear faster, have rougher edges, or feel less precise than OEM parts. In my experience, the cheapest option is not always the best value if it does not last. That is why I focused on balance rather than price alone.

My Buying Advice

If I were choosing again, I would buy an aftermarket MS170 bar only if it had:

  • Clear compatibility with the MS170
  • Strong user reviews
  • Accurate chain pitch and gauge details
  • Durable construction
  • A fair warranty or return policy

Final Thoughts

My overall opinion is that an aftermarket bar can be a smart buy for the MS170 if I choose carefully. I look for a good fit, solid build quality, and dependable performance. For me, the best aftermarket bar is the one that gives me reliable cutting without wasting money.

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 performance and ease of use. My main focus would be on finding a bar that balances durability, fit, and value without overcomplicating the setup. Overall, I’d say a quality aftermarket bar is a practical upgrade for anyone looking to get more out of their MS170.

Author Profile

Elliot Mercer
Elliot Mercer
Elliot Mercer is the writer behind firstunitedethanol.com, based in Macon, Georgia. Years around stockrooms, shelves, delivery carts, and practical customers shaped the way he looks at everyday products.

He pays attention to how things hold up in real use, especially around the home, garage, yard, car, and daily routine. Heat, rain, storage, weak handles, confusing instructions, and cheap materials are the kinds of details he notices before recommending anything.

Through firstunitedethanol.com, Elliot shares honest first-person product thoughts based on use, comparison, research, and ordinary needs. His goal is to help readers understand what is worth buying, what is only almost useful, and what may become one more thing to deal with.