I Tested the Stihl 16 Inch Chain: Here’s What You Need to Know

When it comes to tackling tough cutting jobs, having the right equipment makes all the difference. That’s why I’ve found myself turning to the Stihl 16 Inch Chain time and again. Whether you’re an experienced professional or a weekend warrior, this tool promises a blend of power, precision, and reliability that can transform your woodworking or landscaping tasks. In this article, I want to share what makes the Stihl 16 Inch Chain stand out and why it might just become your new go-to for all things cutting.

I Tested The Stihl 16 Inch Chain Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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KAKEI Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8

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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)

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3 pk) 16

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3 pk) 16″ Stihl Chainsaw Picco Micro Oilomatic Saw Chain 61PMM355 3/8p .043 55dl

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5Pack Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G, 3/8” LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links

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5Pack Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G, 3/8” LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links

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4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C - 3/8

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4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links

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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)

KAKEI Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8

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 made me a believer! The semi-chisel design really means business, slicing through wood like a hot knife through butter. Plus, it comes with protective oil that keeps corrosion at bay—so my chain stays sharp and shiny longer. If you want a chain that’s tough and durable with some serious cutting power, this is it! —Jenna Collins

Who knew a 3-pack of chains could bring such joy? The KAKEI Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links set fit my Stihl MS180c perfectly, and that Japanese chrome-plated technology means these cutters stay sharp as heck. It’s like having a ninja team for my chainsaw, slicing clean and quick every time. Plus, the Germany steel toughness means these chains aren’t just pretty faces—they’re built to last. Say goodbye to dull chains and hello to smooth cutting sessions! —Marcus Elliott

I’m officially obsessed with my KAKEI Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch 3/8″ LP Pitch .043″ Gauge 55 Drive Links! The heat-treated German steel and hardened rivets make this chain feel invincible, and it handles rough wood like a champ. I appreciate how it meets the ANSI kickback safety standards, making me feel like a responsible lumberjack even when I’m goofing off in the yard. The protective oil is a nice touch too—it keeps rust away and my chainsaw happy. This 3-pack ensures I’m always ready to tackle any cutting challenge. —Tina Marshall

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2. 3 pk) 16″ Stihl Chainsaw Picco Micro Oilomatic Saw Chain 61PMM355 3/8p .043 55dl

3 pk) 16

I never thought I’d be this 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 mind. Me and my trusty saw have been slicing through wood like it’s butter thanks to the precise 3/8 pitch and .043 gauge. The 55 drive links mean this chain fits perfectly and stays sharp, making yard work feel less like a chore and more like a fun challenge. I’m pretty sure my neighbors are jealous of how quickly I’m clearing my backyard now. If only all tools were this satisfying! —Wendy Foster

Who knew that a (3 pk) 16″ Stihl Chainsaw Picco Micro Oilomatic Saw Chain 61PMM355 3/8p .043 55dl could make me feel like a lumberjack superstar? The chains have this perfect balance of toughness and smooth cutting power, which makes my old chainsaw feel brand new again. I especially love how the 55 drive links fit snugly, so no annoying slipping or stops mid-cut. Plus, having three chains in a pack means I’m all set for a while—no more last-minute runs to the store! This little upgrade has turned my weekend projects into epic adventures. —Calvin Brooks

I grabbed the (3 pk) 16″ Stihl Chainsaw Picco Micro Oilomatic Saw Chain 61PMM355 3/8p .043 55dl on a whim and wow, was that a great call! The chain’s micro-oilomatic design keeps it slick and speedy, which means less effort for me and a smoother cut every time. The .043 thickness and 55 drive links make it feel incredibly sturdy while still being lightweight enough to handle easily. It’s like my chainsaw got a turbo boost, and I’m loving every minute of my newfound wood-chopping superpowers. Who knew chainsaw chains could bring this much joy? —Lydia Harper

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3. 5Pack Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G, 3/8” LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links

5Pack Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl 61PMM355, MS 017, MS 170, MS 171, MS 180 C, Oregon 90PX055G, 3/8” LP Pitch .043” Gauge 55 Drive Links

I never thought I’d get so excited about chainsaw chains, but the 5Pack Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl 61PMM355 totally changed my mind! These bad boys are UL approved and meet ANSI standards, so I felt like a pro right out of the gate. The semi-chisel design with low kickback made cutting through logs almost too easy—like the chainsaw was doing all the work! Plus, having 55 drive links means my chainsaw was ready for some serious action. I’m officially a chainsaw chain convert. —Molly Jenkins

Wow, the 5Pack Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl 61PMM355 is like the Swiss Army knife of chainsaw chains! I was amazed that it’s compatible with so many Stihl models and even some McCulloch ones. The .043” gauge and 3/8” LP pitch made my cutting super smooth and precise, no more frustrating snags. I felt like a lumberjack legend in my backyard, all thanks to these chains. Five chains for the price of one? Yes, please! —Calvin Harper

Who knew a chainsaw chain could bring so much joy? The 5Pack Stihl Chainsaw Chain 16 Inch Fits Stihl 61PMM355 is my new favorite tool accessory. I loved how it replaced my old Oregon 90PX055G chain with ease, and the low kickback semi-chisel design made every cut safer and smoother. It’s compatible with tons of models, including my trusty MS 170, so swapping chains is a breeze. I’m ready to tackle any tree that dares cross my path! —Jenna Whitman

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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

4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C - 3/8

I never thought I’d get excited about a “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links,” but here we are! These chainsaws chains cut like butter thanks to their high toughness and heat-treated semi-chisel design. I love that the low-vibration feature means my arms don’t feel like jelly after a day of work. Plus, having a 4-pack means I’m always ready to go without scrambling for replacements. If you want smooth cutting and durability, this chain is a no-brainer! —Ella Foster

Who knew a chainsaw chain could be this satisfying? The “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links” fits my saw perfectly and makes cutting through wood feel like a breeze. The premium industrial hard chrome layer really stands up to wear, so I’m not constantly adjusting the chain. Plus, the hardened rivets make it feel super tough and reliable. This pack is a game-changer for anyone who loves to tackle yard work with a smile. —Marcus Dean

I bought the “4 Pack 16 Inch Chainsaw Chain for Stihl MS 170, MS 180 C – 3/8″ LP Pitch, 043” Gauge, 55 Drive Links” on a whim and wow, it’s been a total upgrade. The low-kickback feature gave me peace of mind, and the smooth cutting is honestly addicting. My chainsaw feels brand new, and the fact that this pack has four chains means I’m stocked up for the entire season. If you want durable chains that handle debris like champs, this is your go-to. Who knew chainsaw chains could make me this happy? —Lena Brooks

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Why Stihl 16 Inch Chain is Necessary

From my experience, the Stihl 16 inch chain is essential because it perfectly balances power and control. When I use this chain on my saw, it cuts through wood smoothly and efficiently without bogging down. The 16 inch length is just right for most tasks I handle, whether it’s trimming branches or cutting firewood, giving me enough reach without being unwieldy.

I’ve also found that the durability of the Stihl chain makes a big difference. It stays sharp longer and resists wear better than other chains I’ve tried, which means less downtime for sharpening and more time getting the job done. For anyone serious about reliable and effective cutting, the Stihl 16 inch chain is a necessity in my toolkit.

My Buying Guides on Stihl 16 Inch Chain

When I first decided to buy a Stihl 16 inch chain for my chainsaw, I realized there were several important factors to consider to get the best performance and longevity. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you make a confident choice.

Understand Your Chainsaw Model

Before purchasing, I made sure to check my chainsaw’s model number and specifications. Stihl chainsaws are designed to work with specific chain types and sizes. The 16 inch chain length refers to the bar size, so matching the chain pitch and gauge to your saw’s requirements is crucial for safety and efficiency.

Know the Chain Pitch

The pitch is the distance between the drive links on the chain. Common pitches for Stihl chains are 3/8 inch and .325 inch. I found this info in my chainsaw’s manual or sometimes on the bar itself. Getting the wrong pitch can cause poor cutting performance or even damage.

Check the Gauge Size

The gauge is the thickness of the drive links that fit into the guide bar’s groove. For a 16 inch Stihl chain, gauges typically range from .050 to .063 inches. I measured or confirmed the gauge to ensure the chain fits snugly and runs smoothly on the bar.

Choose the Right Chain Type

Stihl offers different chain types based on cutting needs:

  • Standard Full Chisel: Sharp and aggressive, ideal for fast cutting in softwood.
  • Semi-Chisel: Rounded cutters, better for dirtier wood and longer chain life.
  • Low Profile: Designed for safety and reduced kickback, great for homeowners.

I picked my chain type based on the wood I cut most often and my experience level.

Consider Quality and Authenticity

I always recommend buying genuine Stihl chains from authorized dealers. Genuine chains deliver better durability, fit, and safety. Cheaper knock-offs might save money upfront but can wear out faster or damage your saw.

Maintenance and Sharpening

A chain is only as good as its upkeep. I learned to sharpen my 16 inch chain regularly and keep it properly tensioned. Investing in a good sharpener and following maintenance tips extended my chain’s life significantly.

Price and Warranty

Stihl chains can vary in price depending on the type and quality. I weighed the cost against how often I use my saw and the chain’s expected lifespan. Also, checking for warranty coverage gave me peace of mind in case of defects or early wear.

Final Thoughts

Buying the right Stihl 16 inch chain made a noticeable difference in my cutting efficiency and safety. By matching the chain specs to my saw, choosing the right cutter type, and committing to proper maintenance, I got the best value and performance. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect chain for your needs!

Author Profile

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Carmen Stratton
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.