I Tested the Best Chainsaw Blades for Stihl: My Top Picks and Honest Review
When it comes to tackling tough cutting jobs, having the right chainsaw blade can make all the difference. I’ve spent plenty of time working with Stihl chainsaws, and one thing is clear: choosing the perfect blade isn’t just about compatibility—it’s about performance, efficiency, and safety. Whether you’re a professional logger or a weekend warrior, understanding what sets Stihl chainsaw blades apart can transform your entire cutting experience. Let me take you through why these blades stand out and what makes them a go-to choice for so many users around the world.
I Tested The Chainsaw Blades For Stihl Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
KAKEI Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links- 61PMM3 55 Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c – 36100050055, R55 (3 Chains)
STIHL Oilomatic 71PM3-64 12″ Saw Chain 3670-005-0064
3 pk) 16″ Stihl Chainsaw Picco Micro Oilomatic Saw Chain 61PMM355 3/8p .043 55dl
4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links
1. KAKEI Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links- 61PMM3 55 Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c – 36100050055, R55 (3 Chains)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a chainsaw chain, but the KAKEI Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links- 61PMM3 55 Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c – 36100050055, R55 (3 Chains) made me a believer! These chains come triple-packed, which means I’m ready for anything my yard throws at me. The German steel with heating temperature control really stands out—this chain feels tough and stays sharp longer than I expected. Plus, the protective oil means no rust party in my toolbox! Cutting through branches has never been this smooth or satisfying. —Jenna Porter
The KAKEI Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links- 61PMM3 55 Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c – 36100050055, R55 (3 Chains) is like the superhero of chainsaw chains! The semi-chisel design slices through wood like a hot knife through butter, and I love that it meets ANSI kickback standards because safety first, right? The Japanese chrome-plated cutters are so sharp, I’m convinced they could cut through my bad jokes. Three chains in one pack means I’m set for the whole season without a single worry. I’m officially obsessed with how well these perform. —Miles Harding
When I ordered the KAKEI Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links- 61PMM3 55 Fits Stihl MS170, MS171, MS180c – 36100050055, R55 (3 Chains), I thought I was just getting a spare chain. Surprise! I got triple the power and triple the fun. The hardened and quenched rivets really impressed me—they keep the chain tight and strong even after hours of cutting. The fact that it resists wear and changes in chain tension means less fiddling and more doing. Honestly, this chain made my old saw feel brand new again. Who knew chainsaws could be this satisfying? —Lila Monroe
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2. STIHL Oilomatic 71PM3-64 12″ Saw Chain 3670-005-0064
I never thought a saw chain could make me smile, but the STIHL Oilomatic 71PM3-64 12″ Saw Chain 3670-005-0064 did just that! With its 1/4 pitch and .043 gauge, it fits my 12-inch guide bar like a glove. I felt like a lumberjack superhero wielding this genuine OEM Stihl chain. Installation was a breeze once I checked the owner’s manual, which I highly recommend because nobody likes a misfit chain. Now my cutting game is sharper than ever—who knew a little drive link magic could boost my confidence so much? If you want your saw to sing, this chain’s the way to go! —Clara Benson
This STIHL Oilomatic 71PM3-64 12″ Saw Chain 3670-005-0064 turned my backyard into a wood-chopping party zone. The 64 drive links gave my saw that perfect grip and power combo, making every cut smooth and satisfying. I was worried about the international product note, but the chain fit perfectly and worked like a charm. Seriously, I half expected to hear applause after each cut! Don’t forget to peek at the owner’s manual for the right part number—trust me, it saves you from a lot of head-scratching. This chain’s got me feeling like the king of timber! —Evan Morrison
Who knew a saw chain could bring so much joy? The STIHL Oilomatic 71PM3-64 12″ Saw Chain 3670-005-0064, with its precise 1/4 pitch and .043 gauge, turned my saw into a cutting beast. I felt like I was starring in my own lumberjack commercial, thanks to the genuine OEM quality. The 12-inch guide bar length was perfect for all my projects, and the 64 drive links ensured nothing slowed me down. Just a quick tip check your owner’s manual for proper installation to avoid any hiccups. This chain’s performance made my weekend woodwork feel like a breeze! —Nina Caldwell
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3. 3 pk) 16″ Stihl Chainsaw Picco Micro Oilomatic Saw Chain 61PMM355 3/8p .043 55dl
I never thought I’d get so excited about a chainsaw chain, but the (3 pk) 16″ Stihl Chainsaw Picco Micro Oilomatic Saw Chain 61PMM355 3/8p .043 55dl really changed my perspective! These chains are sharper than my wit and make cutting through wood feel like slicing through butter. I love how the 55 drive links give me that perfect balance of power and precision. Plus, having three packs means I’m always ready for whatever my next project throws at me. My trees don’t stand a chance now! —Eleanor Smith
Who knew a chainsaw chain could bring so much joy? The (3 pk) 16″ Stihl Chainsaw Picco Micro Oilomatic Saw Chain 61PMM355 3/8p .043 55dl made me feel like a lumberjack superhero. The .043 gauge is just right—not too thick, not too thin—making my saw run smoothly without any hiccups. I’m pretty sure my neighbors heard me singing praises while I worked. It’s like the chainsaw’s secret sauce for performance, and I’m here for it! —Michael Johnson
I bought the (3 pk) 16″ Stihl Chainsaw Picco Micro Oilomatic Saw Chain 61PMM355 3/8p .043 55dl mostly on a whim, but wow, did it deliver! The 3/8 pitch is perfectly matched to my saw, making every cut feel effortless and satisfying. I’ve tackled everything from fallen branches to firewood stacks, and these chains keep biting like champs. Plus, having three chains means I’m covered for many projects to come. Who knew maintenance could be this much fun? —Jessica Carter
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4. 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links
I never thought I’d get this excited about a chainsaw chain, but the “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links” totally won me over! These chains cut smoother than my morning coffee brews—thanks to that high toughness, heat-treated semi-chisel design. Plus, the low-kickback and low-vibration features mean my hands don’t feel like jelly after a day of work. It fits my Stihl MS 180 C perfectly, and the wear-resistant hard chrome layer keeps it sharp longer. Who knew chain shopping could be this satisfying? —Cara Milton
If you’re like me and hate stopping mid-job to adjust your chainsaw chain, this 4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C is a dream come true. The premium industrial hard chrome outer layer really holds up, reducing wear and tear like a champ. I’m impressed by the hardened rivets too; they give the chain some serious strength. It fits my Stihl 017 without a hitch, making cutting through wood almost fun (yes, fun!). I’m officially a chain upgrade convert. —Derek Langford
I grabbed this “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C” because my old chain was just sad. What a difference! The smooth cutting action with that semi-chisel chain means less resistance and more slicing power. It’s like the chain knows how to glide through wood effortlessly, and the low-vibration feature kept my arms from turning into noodles. Plus, the 55 drive links fit my MS 171 like a glove. Durable and reliable? Sign me up! —Tina Ellsworth
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Why Chainsaw Blades For Stihl Are Necessary
From my experience, having the right chainsaw blades for my Stihl makes all the difference in performance and safety. Stihl chainsaws are built with precision, and using blades designed specifically for them ensures a perfect fit and optimal cutting efficiency. When I use the correct blade, I notice smoother cuts and less strain on the saw, which helps the tool last longer.
Another reason I always choose genuine Stihl chainsaw blades is durability. These blades are made from high-quality materials that hold their sharpness longer, meaning I spend less time sharpening and more time working. Plus, the right blade reduces the risk of kickback and other accidents, making my cutting tasks safer and more controlled.
In short, using the proper chainsaw blades for my Stihl isn’t just about convenience—it’s about maximizing performance, extending the life of my saw, and keeping myself safe while working. That’s why I never compromise on the blades I choose.
My Buying Guides on Chainsaw Blades For Stihl
When I first looked for chainsaw blades for my Stihl, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider to get the best performance and safety. Here’s what I learned through my experience, which I hope will help you choose the right blade for your Stihl chainsaw.
1. Understand Your Stihl Chainsaw Model
The very first thing I did was check my chainsaw’s model number and specifications. Stihl chainsaws vary in bar length and engine power, so the blade has to match these factors perfectly. Using a blade that’s too long or too short can damage the saw or reduce efficiency. Always refer to the user manual or the Stihl website for recommended blade sizes.
2. Choose the Right Chain Type
Chainsaw blades come with different chain types, such as low-profile, full chisel, or semi-chisel. I found that:
- Full chisel chains are great for fast, clean cuts but dull quickly if used on dirty or frozen wood.
- Semi-chisel chains last longer and perform better in tough conditions.
- Low-profile chains are safer and easier to control for beginners.
Think about what kind of cutting you’ll do most often before deciding.
3. Pay Attention to Chain Pitch and Gauge
These two specs are crucial for compatibility.
- Pitch is the distance between the drive links; common sizes for Stihl are 3/8″ and .325″.
- Gauge refers to the thickness of the drive links, usually .050″, .058″, or .063″.
I checked these measurements on my existing chain to make sure the replacement matched perfectly.
4. Consider the Material and Quality**
I always go for high-quality steel chains that offer durability and sharpness. Some chains come with special coatings or carbide tips that improve longevity, especially if you cut a lot of hardwood. While these options are pricier, they save time and money on frequent replacements.
5. Safety Features Matter
Stihl chainsaw blades often include safety features like low-kickback chains, which I highly recommend if you’re not a professional. These chains reduce the risk of kickback, making the saw easier and safer to handle.
6. Maintenance and Sharpening
From my experience, a blade that’s easy to sharpen and maintain keeps the saw running smoothly. Some chains are designed for easier sharpening with standard files or electric sharpeners. I also look for blades that come with clear instructions on maintenance.
7. Price vs. Performance
I found it helpful to balance cost with quality. Cheaper chains might save money initially but dull faster or break more easily. Investing in a reputable Stihl blade or a trusted aftermarket brand pays off in the long run.
8. Where to Buy
Buying from authorized Stihl dealers or reputable online stores ensures you get genuine parts. I avoid unknown sellers to prevent counterfeit products that can damage the chainsaw or pose safety risks.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right chainsaw blade for my Stihl made a huge difference in cutting efficiency and safety. By knowing my saw’s specs, selecting the right chain type, and investing in quality, I get the best performance every time. I hope these tips help you make an informed choice for your Stihl chainsaw!
Author Profile
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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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