Stihl MS 170 Gas-Powered Chainsaw vs Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf
Buy the Stihl MS 170 if you want a light, cheap saw for trimming small trees and storm limbs. Buy the Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf if you cut firewood regularly or handle logs up to about 35 inches across. No prices were given for either saw, so compare live store prices on this page before you decide.
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Stihl MS 170 Gas-Powered Chainsaw
Choose the Stihl MS 170 if you want a 30 cc, 16-inch saw that is easy to carry and start for light yard work.
- Light and compact for trimming and limb cleanup
- 30 cc engine is easy for homeowners to handle
- 16-inch bar suits small trees and fallen branches
- Has a chain brake and anti-vibration system
- Too small for regular firewood cutting
- 16-inch bar limits log size
- No adjustable oiler listed
What separates them
| Stihl MS 170 Gas-Powered Chainsaw | Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine size | 30 cc | 59.8 cc |
| Bar length | 16 inches | 20 inches |
| Weight class | Lightweight, compact homeowner saw | Heavier ranch and farm saw |
| Max log diameter | Small trees and fallen limbs | Up to 35 inches |
| Best use | Trimming and storm cleanup | Regular firewood cutting |
| Chain brake | Yes | Yes |
| Anti-vibration system | Yes | Yes |
| Oiler | Not specified | Automatic, adjustable clutch-driven oiler |
Price history
- Stihl MS 170 Gas-Powered Chainsaw: lowest $219.99 on Nov 1 at Southern Hardware.
- Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf: lowest $479.00 on Nov 1 at Home Depot.
Prices at every store
Stihl MS 170 Gas-Powered Chainsaw
- AmazonCheck price at Amazon
- eBayCheck price at eBay
- Southern HardwareCheck price at Southern Hardware
Specs compared
| Spec | Stihl MS 170 Gas-Powered Chainsaw | Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf |
|---|---|---|
| Power Type | Gas | — |
| Saw Style | Straight Bar | — |
| Safety Features | With Chain Brake | — |
| With Anti-Vibration System | Yes | — |
| Color | Green, Orange | — |
| Bar Length | 16 inches bar | — |
| Engine Size | 30 cc | — |
What reviewers say
Stihl MS 170 Gas-Powered Chainsaw
Owners consistently describe the MS 170 as a reliable light-duty saw that starts easily and handles yard work well. Most criticism centers on its limits in bigger wood and the fuss of gas maintenance.
- Starts reliably, even after sitting
- Light enough for one-handed trimming and limb work
- Good value for a Stihl
- Cuts fast for its size in softwood and small limbs
- Struggles in hardwood larger than about 10 inches
- Chain tensioning needs a tool
- Vibration and noise tire you out on long jobs
- Needs fuel mixing and carburetor care in storage
Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf
Owners rate it highly for cutting power and value, often comparing it to pro saws costing much more. Complaints center on weight, noise and starting effort.
Questions and answers
- Which is better for cutting firewood?
- The Echo CS-590. Its 59.8 cc engine and 20-inch bar are built for regular firewood cutting and logs up to about 35 inches. The MS 170 is a light trimming saw.
- Which is better for small yard cleanup?
- The Stihl MS 170. At 30 cc and 16 inches it is lighter and easier to handle for limbs and small trees.
- Which lasts longer?
- Both are gas saws from established brands, but the Echo's larger engine and adjustable oiler suit heavier, more frequent cutting. The MS 170 is designed for occasional homeowner use.
- Is the Echo worth the extra money?
- If you cut firewood often or handle large logs, yes. For occasional trimming, the MS 170 covers the job for less.
- Do both have a chain brake?
- Yes. Both saws have a chain brake, and the Stihl MS 170 also lists an anti-vibration system.
- Can the MS 170 cut a 20-inch log?
- It can with effort, but its 16-inch bar and 30 cc engine are meant for smaller wood. The Echo's 20-inch bar is the better fit.