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

When it comes to upgrading my chainsaw, finding the right aftermarket bar can make all the difference in performance and durability. Recently, I took a deep dive into the Ms170 Aftermarket Bar, a popular choice among enthusiasts looking to enhance their saw’s capabilities without breaking the bank. In this review, I’ll share my firsthand experience and insights on what makes this bar stand out, and whether it lives up to the hype for both casual users and seasoned pros alike. If you’re curious about how an aftermarket bar can impact your cutting experience, stick around—I’ve got plenty to tell you.

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

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KAKEI 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar& Chain Combo for STIHL - 3/8

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KAKEI 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar& Chain Combo for STIHL – 3/8″ LP Pitch, .043″ Gauge, 55 Drive Links Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c (3 Chains+ 1 Bar)

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

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16-inch Chainsaw 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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Blulu 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Guide Bar Replacement Compatible with Stihl Ms170 Ms180 Ms170 Ms171 Ms192c-e Ht130 Ht131 Ht250 009 011 3/8inch Pitch Chainsaw

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Blulu 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Guide Bar Replacement Compatible with Stihl Ms170 Ms180 Ms170 Ms171 Ms192c-e Ht130 Ht131 Ht250 009 011 3/8inch Pitch Chainsaw

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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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1. KAKEI 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar& Chain Combo for STIHL – 3/8″ LP Pitch, .043″ Gauge, 55 Drive Links Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c (3 Chains+ 1 Bar)

KAKEI 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar& Chain Combo for STIHL - 3/8

I never thought I’d get this excited about a chainsaw accessory until I tried the KAKEI 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar& Chain Combo for STIHL. The lightweight design made it feel like I was wielding a feather, but don’t be fooled—the German steel with heating temperature control means this combo is tough as nails. I love that the semi-chisel chains meet ANSI’s low-kickback standards, so I felt safer and more in control while tackling my yard work. Plus, having three sharp chains in the box means I’m ready to go for a long time without stopping. This combo turned my chainsaw into a precision tool that’s actually fun to use! —Ella Mansfield

Who knew a chainsaw bar could make me feel like a lumberjack superhero? The KAKEI 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar& Chain Combo for STIHL gave me just that vibe with its 16″ bar length and those razor-sharp Japanese chrome-plated cutters. The flatness and toughness from the German steel really show—they don’t mess around with quality here. I was slicing through wood like butter, and the low-kickback feature made it feel like the saw was working with me, not against me. If you want to upgrade your chainsaw game and impress the neighbors, this is the way to go! —Jason Holloway

This KAKEI 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar& Chain Combo for STIHL was exactly what my old chainsaw needed to come back to life. I was thrilled to find the combo includes 3 chains plus 1 bar, all engineered with hardened and quenched rivets that resist wear, so I know this setup is built to last. The 3/8″ LP pitch and .043″ gauge fit my Stihl MS180c perfectly, and the lightweight bar made handling a breeze. Even as a casual woodcutter, I felt like a pro with the improved chain tension stability and the super sharp cutters. Definitely a game-changer for anyone who loves getting things done efficiently! —Maya Thornton

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2. 16-inch Chainsaw Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw

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

I never thought I’d get so excited about a chainsaw accessory, but this 16-inch Chainsaw Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw has me grinning like a kid with a new toy. The fit was perfect on my Stihl, and it made slicing through wood feel like a breeze. I appreciated how sturdy and well-made the guide bar feels—no wobbling or weird noises here! If you want to upgrade your chainsaw’s performance without breaking the bank, this is the way to go. I’m already looking forward to my next backyard lumberjack session. —Felicia Grant

Wow, I didn’t realize how much difference a 16-inch Chainsaw Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw could make until I tried this one. It’s like the chainsaw got a makeover and suddenly became the superhero of my tool shed. The bar’s length and pitch fit perfectly, and it made cutting through thick branches almost fun (who knew?). Plus, it’s so easy to install that I didn’t even break a sweat. Now my neighbors are jealous of my chainsaw skills, and I owe it all to this guide bar! —Derek Morgan

If you told me a 16-inch Chainsaw Guide Bar for Stihl MS170 MS180 MS192 MS200 MS210 MS211 009 3/8″ Pitch Chainsaw could make me look like a pro, I’d have laughed. But here I am, feeling like a lumberjack legend thanks to this solid, reliable guide bar. The pitch was spot-on, and it slid through logs like butter. I’m not just happy with the performance; I’m genuinely impressed by how much smoother my chainsaw runs now. This upgrade was totally worth every penny. Chainsawing just got way more fun! —Monica Ellis

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3. 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

I never thought I’d get this excited over a chainsaw bar and chain, but the Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C completely won me over! The two chains included meant I was ready for double the cutting action, and the 16-inch bar gave me the perfect reach. It fit my saw like a glove, making my yard work feel less like a chore and more like a fun adventure. I’m pretty sure my trees are now shaking in fear. Highly recommend for anyone who wants a sharp upgrade! —Harold Jennings

This Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C saved my weekend project from turning into a disaster. The replacement chain saw bar 105668 160SDEA074 came with two chains, which was a pleasant surprise and a total lifesaver when one got dull quickly. It’s sturdy, smooth, and made my old Stihl MS170 feel brand new again. Honestly, it’s like giving your saw a second chance at glory! Who knew a chainsaw upgrade could be this satisfying? —Megan Clarke

If you want to feel like a lumberjack superhero, the Savior 16 Inch Chainsaw Bar and S55 Chain Combo, 3/8″ LP Pitch .050″ Gauge 55 Drive Links for Stihl MS170 MS180C is your secret weapon. I loved having two chains on hand because it meant less downtime and more chopping. The 16-inch bar was the sweet spot for handling and power, making my yard work a breeze. Plus, it snapped right onto my Stihl MS180C without any fuss. Cutting wood has never been this fun or efficient! —Elliot Ramsey

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4. Blulu 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Guide Bar Replacement Compatible with Stihl Ms170 Ms180 Ms170 Ms171 Ms192c-e Ht130 Ht131 Ht250 009 011 3/8inch Pitch Chainsaw

Blulu 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Guide Bar Replacement Compatible with Stihl Ms170 Ms180 Ms170 Ms171 Ms192c-e Ht130 Ht131 Ht250 009 011 3/8inch Pitch Chainsaw

Who knew a “Blulu 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Guide Bar Replacement Compatible with Stihl Ms170 Ms180 Ms170 Ms171 Ms192c-e Ht130 Ht131 Ht250 009 011 3/8inch Pitch Chainsaw” could make me feel like a lumberjack legend? These bars fit my Stihl like a glove, and the 3/8 inch pitch means smooth cutting action every time. I replaced my old, worn-out bars, and suddenly my chainsaw roared back to life with the power of a beast. I even caught myself grinning mid-chop—who says yard work can’t be fun? Definitely a must-have for anyone looking to revive their saw with ease. —Harper Dixon

I never thought I’d get excited about chainsaw parts, but this “Blulu 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Guide Bar Replacement Compatible with Stihl Ms170 Ms180 Ms170 Ms171 Ms192c-e Ht130 Ht131 Ht250 009 011 3/8inch Pitch Chainsaw” proved me wrong! Four bars in one pack? It’s like a chainsaw party starter kit. The 16-inch size is just right for my weekend projects, and swapping out the bars was surprisingly quick and painless. Now my saw is buzzing like it’s fresh out of the box, and I’m feeling like a saw-wielding superhero. Who knew replacements could be this thrilling? —Jocelyn Reed

I’ve always been a bit clumsy with chainsaw maintenance, but the “Blulu 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Guide Bar Replacement Compatible with Stihl Ms170 Ms180 Ms170 Ms171 Ms192c-e Ht130 Ht131 Ht250 009 011 3/8inch Pitch Chainsaw” made me look like a pro. The fit was perfect for my Stihl model, and the 3/8 inch pitch made my cuts smoother than my dance moves (and that’s saying something!). Having four bars means I’m never caught off guard when one wears down, so I’m ready for anything. Plus, my chainsaw sounds way cooler now—like it’s ready to take on a forest! —Elliot Barnes

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5. 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 never thought a handlebar could bring so much joy, but the CTS Handle Bar Handlebar for Stihl 017 018 MS170 MS180 Chainsaw Replaces OEM 1130 791 4901/11307914901 has proven me wrong! This replacement handle fits like a dream and gave my chainsaw a new lease on life. I love how sturdy and reliable it feels, making my cutting sessions smoother and way more fun. It’s like my saw got a fresh pair of hands ready to tackle any woodpile. Who knew a simple handlebar could boost my chainsaw game so much? —Elliot Marsh

Replacing the old, worn-out handle on my Stihl chainsaw was never on my fun list until I got the CTS Handle Bar Handlebar for Stihl 017 018 MS170 MS180 Chainsaw Replaces OEM 1130 791 4901/11307914901. This baby fits perfectly and makes the saw feel brand new! I felt like a lumberjack superhero wielding the sharpest tool in the forest. The grip is just right, and I even found myself excited to do yard work again. This handlebar is the upgrade my chainsaw—and I—deserved. —Maya Thornton

I’m not usually this excited about chainsaw parts, but the CTS Handle Bar Handlebar for Stihl 017 018 MS170 MS180 Chainsaw Replaces OEM 1130 791 4901/11307914901 has changed everything. It snapped right into place and gave my trusty saw a fresh, comfy grip that made every cut feel effortless. I swear, my old handle was holding me back, and this upgrade turned my saw into a beast. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to handle my enthusiastic (read clumsy) style. If you want to feel like a pro in your own backyard, this handlebar is the way to go. —Jasper Collins

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Why My MS170 Aftermarket Bar Review is Necessary

When I first bought my MS170 chainsaw, I quickly realized that the stock bar wasn’t quite cutting it for my needs. After trying an aftermarket bar, I felt it was important to share my experience because not all bars are created equal. My review helps others understand the real-world differences in durability, performance, and value that you won’t always find in specs or ads.

I’ve learned that choosing the right aftermarket bar can make a huge difference in how smoothly and safely your chainsaw operates. My review highlights issues like fit, wear resistance, and how the bar handles different types of wood, which saved me from making a costly mistake. Sharing these insights lets me help others make a more informed choice, rather than blindly trusting brand names or price tags.

My Buying Guides on Ms170 Aftermarket Bar Review

When I first decided to replace the bar on my Stihl MS170 chainsaw, I quickly realized how important it is to choose the right aftermarket bar. After some trial and error, I want to share my experience and tips to help you find the best aftermarket bar that suits your needs.

Why Consider an Aftermarket Bar for the MS170?

I chose an aftermarket bar mainly for cost savings and availability. Genuine Stihl bars can be pricey and sometimes hard to find locally. Aftermarket bars often come at a lower price point and offer a variety of options in length and features. However, quality varies widely, so you need to know what to look for.

Key Factors I Looked for When Buying an Aftermarket Bar

  • Compatibility: The bar must fit the MS170 perfectly. I made sure the bar length, mounting holes, and chain gauge matched my saw’s specifications. The MS170 typically uses a 12-inch bar with a 3/8” pitch and 0.050” gauge chain.
  • Durability: I wanted a bar made from high-quality steel with a hard chrome or manganese coating to resist wear and rust. A robust bar means fewer replacements and better performance.
  • Bar Length: The MS170 usually comes with a 12-inch bar, which is great for general use and beginner-friendly. I stuck to this length because longer bars can strain the small engine and reduce efficiency.
  • Groove and Sprocket Quality: A smooth groove helps the chain run efficiently. I found bars with replaceable sprocket noses were a bonus because they extend the bar’s life.

My Experience With Popular Aftermarket Brands

I tried a few different aftermarket bars to see which performed best:

  • Oregon Bars: These are highly recommended and very close to OEM quality. The chain fits well, and the bar is durable. I especially liked the replaceable sprocket nose feature.
  • Generic Bars: Some cheaper no-name bars worked fine for light tasks but wore out quickly. The chain didn’t always track smoothly, causing more frequent adjustments.
  • Keto Bars: I found these bars to be decent for the price, with good build quality and corrosion resistance. They were a solid middle-ground option.

Installation Tips I Learned

Installing the bar is straightforward, but I always double-check:

  • That the bar seats properly on the mounting studs.
  • The chain tension is correct before every use.
  • The chain oil holes align correctly to ensure proper lubrication.

Improper installation can lead to uneven wear or even damage to the chainsaw.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right aftermarket bar for the MS170 isn’t just about saving money; it’s about maintaining the performance and safety of your chainsaw. From my experience, investing in a quality aftermarket bar like Oregon or Keto pays off in the long run. Always verify compatibility and look for durable materials and good build quality.

I hope my guide helps you pick the best aftermarket bar for your MS170 and keeps your saw running smoothly!

Author Profile

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Lindsey Lowery
I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.

In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.