Stihl is the world’s largest chainsaw manufacturer, and their range spans from 10cc hobby saws to 79cc professional models. Chain compatibility varies significantly across their product line, and using the wrong chain is a common mistake that can damage your saw or create a safety hazard.
This guide covers the most popular Stihl models and shows you the exact chain specifications for each. Whether you’re running a small battery saw (MSA series), a mid-range petrol model (MS170–MS261), or a powerful professional unit (MS362, MS660), you’ll find the specs and aftermarket options here.
Stihl Chainsaw Chain Compatibility Chart
| Stihl Model | Bar Length | Pitch | Gauge | Drive Links | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MS170 | 16″ | 3/8 LP | .043″ | 55 DL | Petrol | Entry-level. Standard setup. |
| MS180 | 16″ | 3/8 LP | .043″ | 55 DL | Petrol | Popular DIY model. Same specs as MS170. |
| MS250 | 16″ | .325″ | .063″ | 67 DL | Petrol | Mid-range. Noticeably more powerful than MS180. |
| MS261 | 16″ | .325″ | .063″ | 67 DL | Petrol | Improved MS250. Same chain specs. |
| MS362 | 18″ | 3/8″ | .063″ | 74 DL | Petrol | Professional-grade. Full 3/8″ (not LP). |
| MS500i | 20″ | 3/8″ | .063″ | 81 DL | Petrol | High-end semi-professional. Full 3/8″. |
| MS660 | 20″ | 3/8″ | .063″ | 81 DL | Petrol | Professional flagship. Powerful and durable. |
| MSA 120 | 12″ | 1/4″ | .043″ | 64 DL | Battery | Compact battery. PICCO system (proprietary). |
| MSA 140 | 12″ | 1/4″ | .043″ | 64 DL | Battery | Mid-range battery. PICCO system. |
| MSA 160 | 12″ | 1/4″ | .043″ | 64 DL | Battery | Premium battery model. PICCO system. |
| MSA 200 | 14″ | 3/8 LP | .043″ | 55 DL | Battery | Entry-level battery. Larger bar, low profile. |
| MSA 220 | 16″ | 3/8 LP | .050″ | 56 DL | Battery | Professional battery model. Thicker gauge than MSA 200. |
| MSA 300 | 18″ | .325″ | .050″ | 72 DL | Battery | Flagship battery model. Light 04 system (narrow kerf). |
Petrol vs Battery Models: Key Differences
Stihl’s petrol and battery ranges use completely different chain systems, and they’re not interchangeable. Here’s why:
Petrol Stihl Chainsaws
Stihl’s petrol models use traditional, high-speed chains designed for power and sustained use. The small models (MS170, MS180) use 3/8 LP, mid-range models (MS250, MS261) use .325″, and large professional saws (MS362, MS660) use full 3/8″. All petrol chains are higher-gauge (.063″) for durability.
Battery Stihl Chainsaws (MSA Series)
Battery models are optimised for efficiency and ease of use. They use low-profile or narrow-kerf chains (.043″–.050″) to reduce drag and preserve battery runtime. The MSA 120/140/160 use Stihl’s proprietary PICCO system (1/4″ pitch), which is smaller and quieter than any petrol model. The MSA 200/220 use 3/8 LP, and the flagship MSA 300 uses .325″ Light 04 (narrow kerf).
The point: never mix battery and petrol chains on Stihl saws. The systems are designed differently for different power and speed profiles.
Stihl PICCO System Explained
The PICCO system is Stihl’s proprietary 1/4″ low-profile chain used on the MSA 120, MSA 140, and MSA 160 battery models. It’s the smallest chain Stihl makes and is designed specifically for compact battery saws.
PICCO Specifications
- Pitch: 1/4″ (quarter-inch) — the smallest standard pitch
- Gauge: .043″ (narrow kerf)
- Rotation speed: Much slower than standard systems — this keeps vibration down and makes the saw easier to control
- Applications: MSA 120, MSA 140, MSA 160 only
- Aftermarket options: Stihl original, Oregon PICCO chains (widely available)
PICCO Advantages
PICCO chains are lightweight, quiet, and produce less vibration than larger chains. For small cutting jobs and domestic use, they’re ideal. The smaller size also means less drag on the battery, extending runtime.
PICCO Limitations
Because PICCO runs at lower speeds, it’s slower at cutting. For heavy-duty work or professional use, a 3/8 LP battery saw (like the MSA 200 or 220) will outperform a PICCO model. PICCO is designed for light domestic work — trimming branches, cutting firewood for a fireplace, general garden maintenance.
Finding PICCO Chains
Oregon makes excellent PICCO chains (part number 91PX typically fits MSA 120/140/160). Check the drive link count on your current chain to ensure exact fit — MSA models typically use 64 DL PICCO chains.
Stihl Light 04 System (MSA 300)
The MSA 300 flagship battery model uses Stihl’s Light 04 system, which is a narrow-kerf .325″ chain. This bridges the gap between small battery models (3/8 LP) and large petrol models (full .325″).
Light 04 Specifications
- Pitch: .325″ (mid-sized)
- Gauge: .050″ (standard gauge, not narrow)
- Drive links: Typically 72 DL on the MSA 300
- Speed: Faster cutting than 3/8 LP, but optimised for battery efficiency
Light 04 is less common than full .325″ chains but widely available through Oregon and Stihl dealers. It’s an excellent middle ground for users who want more cutting power than a 3/8 LP battery saw but prefer the convenience of cordless operation.
Oregon Chains for Stihl
Oregon makes aftermarket chains that fit nearly every Stihl model. Here’s the quick reference:
| Stihl Model(s) | Oregon Equivalent | Part Number (Example) | Drive Links |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS170, MS180 | 91PX025 (3/8 LP .043″) | 91PX025 | 55 DL |
| MS250, MS261 | 91VG (standard .325″ .063″) | 91VG056E | 67 DL |
| MS362, MS500i, MS660 | 91VG (standard .325″ .063″) or 92VX (full 3/8″) | 91VG072E (for MS362) | 74–81 DL depending on model |
| MSA 120, MSA 140, MSA 160 | 91PX (1/4″ .043″ PICCO) | 91PX | 64 DL |
| MSA 200 | 91PX025 (3/8 LP .043″) | 91PX025 | 55 DL |
| MSA 220 | 91PX (3/8 LP .050″) | 91PX (standard gauge) | 56 DL |
| MSA 300 | 91VG (Light 04 .325″ .050″) | 91VG (narrow kerf variant) | 72 DL |
Oregon chains are typically cheaper than Stihl originals and offer excellent quality. They’re widely available online and at tool retailers. Always verify the pitch, gauge, and drive link count match your bar before purchasing.
SPARES2GO and Other Aftermarket Options
SPARES2GO is a UK-based supplier offering Stihl-compatible chains at competitive prices. Other aftermarket brands include Cutter, Archer, and Echo — all of which make chains that fit Stihl saws when specs match.
Aftermarket chains are significantly cheaper than Stihl originals but should meet the same safety and performance standards. Look for chains that carry a “semi-chisel” or “chisel” designation for different cutting characteristics:
- Semi-chisel: Slower, safer, easier to control. Good for occasional users and dull saws.
- Chisel: Faster, sharper, requires more maintenance. Preferred by professionals.
- Full-skip: Larger spacing, faster cut, for 16″+ bars and professional work.
Where to Buy Stihl Chains
Stihl OEM Chains
Available through Stihl dealers and online retailers. These are engineered specifically for Stihl saws but cost more than aftermarket options.
Oregon Chains
Browse Oregon chains on Amazon UK. Oregon is the world’s largest aftermarket supplier and offers excellent value.
SPARES2GO and Budget Alternatives
SPARES2GO chains on Amazon UK. Budget-friendly but still reliable.
Chain Sharpening Kits
Keep your Stihl chain sharp with a professional sharpening kit. Stihl sharpening kits on Amazon UK.
Key Points to Remember
Do Not Mix 3/8 LP and Full 3/8″
This is the most common mistake. 3/8 LP chains run on reduced-speed sprockets and are common on Stihl’s small petrol (MS170, MS180) and battery models. Full 3/8″ chains run on full-speed sprockets and are used on professional saws (MS362, MS660). Putting a full 3/8″ chain on a saw designed for 3/8 LP will cause the sprockets to mismatch, and the chain may slip or snap.
PICCO Is Proprietary to Battery Models
PICCO (1/4″ pitch) is only used on the MSA 120, MSA 140, and MSA 160. Don’t try to fit PICCO chains to petrol models or vice versa. PICCO bars are smaller and designed for the battery system’s power profile.
Always Check Your Manual
When in doubt, consult your Stihl manual. The replacement parts section lists the exact pitch, gauge, and drive link count for your model. This is your most reliable reference.
Measure Your Current Chain
If you’ve lost your manual, remove your chain and look for stamped markings (pitch, gauge, DL). If markings are worn, count the drive links and check the bar documentation. These three specs are all you need to order the right replacement.
Watch: Video Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fit an Oregon chain on my Stihl chainsaw?
Yes. Oregon chains are engineered to fit all major brands when pitch, gauge, and drive link count match. Oregon is actually used as an OEM supplier for some Stihl batteries. Verify your specs and you’re good to go.
What’s the difference between MS170 and MS180?
The MS170 and MS180 are nearly identical in terms of chain compatibility (both use 3/8 LP .043″ 55 DL). The MS180 has slightly more power and is the more popular model for DIY work. Chain-wise, they’re completely interchangeable.
My Stihl manual says my chain is 16″ 3/8 LP .043 DL. Is that the full spec?
That’s missing the drive link count (DL). 16″ bars on Stihl typically use 55 or 56 DL, but you need to confirm. Count the drive links on your current chain, or check the chain packaging for the exact DL number.
Is the MSA 220 compatible with MSA 200 chains?
No. Both use 3/8 LP, but the MSA 200 uses .043″ gauge with 55 DL, while the MSA 220 uses .050″ gauge with 56 DL. The thicker gauge and extra drive link won’t fit the MSA 200’s bar.
Can I fit a 20″ bar on my MS180?
Not recommended. The MS180 is designed for 16″ bars maximum. Fitting a 20″ bar would overtax the engine, reduce cutting efficiency, and increase kickback risk. Stick to the manufacturer’s recommended bar length.
How often should I sharpen my Stihl chain?
Sharpen your chain when cutting slows or the saw pulls to one side. For regular use, expect to sharpen every 5–10 hours of cutting. A dull chain is as dangerous as the wrong chain — it demands more power, increases vibration, and increases kickback risk.
Related Pages
- Chainsaw Chain & Bar Compatibility Guide — Complete Hub
- Husqvarna Chainsaw Chain Compatibility Guide
- Makita Chainsaw Chain Compatibility
- DeWalt Chainsaw Chain Compatibility
- Oregon Chainsaw Chain Guide
