16in Chainsaw Bar and 3-Pack Chain Combo - Fits Stihl MS170/MS180

In this review of the 16in chainsaw bar and chain combo, the bottom line is simple: this kit is aimed at homeowners and occasional woodcutters who need a reliable, ready-to-fit replacement for small Stihl-style saws up to 42 cc. The reviewer found the 16in guide bar plus three 16in,.050" 3/8" LP chains deliver noticeable cutting performance and value, especially for those who prefer swapping chains instead of frequent resharpening. The package emphasizes durability and lower kickback, and that balance of sharpness and toughness is the main reason to consider this combo.

Key Features

• 16in guide bar: Provides less kickback and easier handling for routine trimming and limbing with small gas or electric saws.
• Three saw chains included: Comes with 3 chains so users can continue cutting while a spare is sharpened or replaced.
• Semi-chisel cutters: The 3/8" LP semi-chisel profile cuts aggressively while maintaining controlled performance for general-purpose jobs.
• Hardened rivets and steel: Rivets are quenched and cutters use heat-controlled German steel for improved wear resistance and consistent tension.
• Sprocket nose bar: Tail mount A074 with 7-tooth sprocket nose improves chain tracking and reduces strain on the drive.
• ANSI low-kickback: Chains meet ANSI B175.1-2018 kickback performance for safer operation on compatible saws.

Who It's For

This combo is best for homeowners, hobbyist arborists, and anyone with a small Stihl-compatible saw such as MS170, MS180, or similar models up to 42 cc who wants an economical replacement bar and multiple chains in one purchase. It suits users who value sharp out-of-the-box cutters and the convenience of having spare chains ready during yardwork.

Those who need professional-grade endurance for daily heavy logging or who use larger, higher-powered saws should look for full-size commercial bars and low-profile chains built for heavy continuous use. Also confirm tail mount and sprocket tooth counts before ordering to ensure compatibility.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Multiple chains included provide clear value and reduce downtime for sharpening.
• Durable materials and hardened rivets resist wear and help maintain chain tension.
• The 16in guide bar reduces kickback and is lightweight for easier handling by nonprofessionals.
• Chains are described as sharp out of the package and cut hardwood effectively.

Cons

• Some users reported the cutter teeth are short on arrival, which may reduce service life before a regrind.
• Mixed feedback on chain hold means occasional tension adjustments may be required during use.

Specifications

Guide bar length	16in
Chain pitch	3/8in LP
Gauge	.050in
Drive links	55 DL
Mount type	Tail mount A074
Sprocket nose tooth count	7
Safety standard	ANSI B175.1-2018 low-kickback

Our Verdict

For homeowners with Stihl MS170/MS180 style saws, this 16in bar and 3-pack chain combo is a practical, cost-effective replacement that balances sharp cutting performance with durable construction. It is particularly good value thanks to the extra chains, though users should inspect cutter length on arrival and expect occasional tensioning during use. Overall, it is a smart buy for occasional to moderate yard work where convenience and initial sharpness matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this fit a Stihl MS170 or MS180?
Yes, the kit is designed for Stihl-style saws up to 42 cc and explicitly lists compatibility with MS170 and MS180 models; confirm tail mount A074 and sprocket tooth count before installing.

How many chains are included and are they pre-sharpened?
The package includes three 16in chains with semi-chisel cutters; they are sharpened from the factory for immediate use but some customers noted cutter teeth are relatively short.

Is the bar low-kickback and safe for casual users?
The chains meet ANSI B175.1-2018 kickback performance and the 16in guide bar is described as reducing kickback, making it suitable for nonprofessional users when proper technique is used.