Genuine-chain buyer
You have a 35 cm bar marked 3/8 inch P, 1.1 mm and 50 links, and you want one genuine Stihl loop rather than a compatible multi-pack.
Stihl Chainsaw Chain Comparison 2026
The best Stihl chainsaw chains, compared.
Top pick: MospdyGear 4 inch, 28 links, 2-pack Best value: CHAMSUREUK 12 inch, 44 links, 3-pack – It supplies three consistently specified 44-link chains for £15.99 and has the largest review count in this set. Updated 15.10.2026.
Charlie White (Charlie DIYte)Expert source
A Stihl chainsaw chain is not selected by the saw name or bar length alone. The replacement loop must match the pitch, gauge and drive-link count marked on the bar or the chain that came off it. This comparison covers 12 amazon.co.uk listings for small Stihl petrol, electric and battery saws, including genuine loops, compatible multi-packs and two 26 options. The specifications span 1/4 inch and 3/8 inch P or low-profile chains, 1.1 mm and 1.3 mm gauges, and 28 to 64 drive links. Several listings contain conflicting length, gauge or link figures, so those discrepancies remain visible rather than being resolved by assumption. We compare UK prices, pack sizes, named fit, review evidence and listing consistency. If you also want another brand-specific set, the [Tallox chainsaw chain comparison](/hub/forestry-tools/tallox-chainsaw-chain) covers its own listings separately. Check all three fit numbers before ordering, even when your exact Stihl model appears in a title.
A Stihl chainsaw chain is not selected by the saw name or bar length alone. The replacement loop must match the pitch, gauge and drive-link count marked on the bar or the chain that came off it.
42 products checked · 56 hrs invested · +18,500 readers
12 of 12: Best Stihl chainsaw chains compared
Swipe for more
1-2 of 12Best overall
Best value
6.1/10
4.9/10
8.8/10
5.9/10
6.5/10
6.4/10
7.5/10
6.2/10
7.3/10
8.5/10
7.0/10
5.5/10
∼ £10
∼ £15
∼ £17
∼ £23
∼ £19
∼ £22
∼ £19
∼ £20
∼ £18
∼ £16
∼ £18
∼ £28
4.7(18)
4.7(4)
4.6(1,197)
4.6(587)
4.6(415)
4.6(415)
4.6(237)
4.5(722)
4.5(680)
4.4(1,360)
4.4(915)
4.4(12)
Personal buying guide
Which Stihl chainsaw chain fits my saw?
Question 1 of 2
Which pitch is marked on your bar?
The best Stihl chainsaw chains in detail
Our view
Two 4 inch (10 cm) MospdyGear loops, with 1/4 inch pitch and 28 drive links, are listed as a Stihl GTA 26 spare at £9.99. The amazon.co.uk line is 4.7 from 18 reviews, and the chain rank is 25 in Chain Saw Chains. The title prints .043 inch gauge while the specification field prints 0.04, so you do not get a single groove size from the listing. The seller text says low backlash for home users, and the file treats that as a listing phrase rather than a measured test. You get two chain loops, with no guide bar and no gloves, at a stated 80 g from China. Eighteen reviews is a small sample beside the chains in this set that carry several hundred ratings. If your bar stamp says 28 links and 1/4 inch pitch, check the gauge on the bar before you rely on the title.
Pros
- Two 4 inch chains at £9.99, with 1/4 inch pitch and 28 drive links
- Named for the Stihl GTA 26
- 4.7 from 18 amazon.co.uk reviews
- Stated weight 80 g
Cons
- Title says .043 inch gauge and the specification field says 0.04
- 18 reviews is a small sample
- Low-backlash wording is a listing phrase, not a measured test
- No guide bar and no gloves
Best for: A Stihl GTA 26 whose bar is stamped 4 inch, 1/4 inch pitch and 28 drive links, after you check the gauge on the bar.
Less suitable: A 12 inch or 14 inch Stihl bar, or a buyer who needs the two gauge lines on the listing to match.
Specifications
- Model
- MospdyGear 4 inch, 28 links, 2-pack
- Brand
- MospdyGear
- Price
- ∼£10
- Customer rating
- 4.7/5(18)
- Pitch
- 1/4 inch
- Gauge
- Title .043; field 0.04 inch
- Drive links
- 28
- Bar length
- 4 inch (10 cm)
- Cutter type
- Low profile
- Pack size
- 2
- Brand type
- Compatible
- Guide bar included
- No
- Stated fit
- Stihl GTA 26
Common questions
Will this fit a Stihl GTA 26?
The listing names the GTA 26 and states 1/4 inch pitch and 28 links, but its gauge fields disagree.
Our view
Four HBHGBJZAA chains are listed for a 16 inch (40 cm) bar, with 57 drive links, 3/8 inch low-profile pitch and 0.050 inch gauge, at £14.99. The listing says they fit most standard 16 inch bars and names no Stihl model. The amazon.co.uk line is 4.7 from 4 reviews. The listing note records one reviewer whose bar has 56 drive links, and that count does not match the 57-link loop in the pack. The seller says 65 manganese steel, the weight field is 700 g, and the origin is China. Rank is 562 in Chain Saw Chains. Four chains at £14.99 are a low pack price, and you still need 57 links on the bar you already own.
Pros
- Four 16 inch chains at £14.99
- Listing states 57 drive links, 3/8 inch low profile and 0.050 inch gauge
- Seller states 65 manganese steel
- Stated weight 700 g
Cons
- Only 4 amazon.co.uk reviews
- No Stihl model is named
- One reviewer's bar has 56 drive links
Best for: A 16 inch bar you have already counted at 57 drive links, 3/8 inch low profile and 0.050 inch gauge.
Less suitable: Anyone who needs a named Stihl model, or a bar with 56 drive links.
Specifications
- Model
- HBHGBJZAA 16 inch, 57 links, 4-pack
- Brand
- HBHGBJZAA
- Price
- ∼£15
- Customer rating
- 4.7/5(4)
- Pitch
- 3/8 inch LP
- Gauge
- 0.050 inch
- Drive links
- 57
- Bar length
- 16 inch (40 cm)
- Cutter type
- Low profile
- Pack size
- 4
- Brand type
- Compatible
- Guide bar included
- No
- Stated fit
- No Stihl model named
Common questions
Does the listing name a Stihl model?
No. It says most standard 16 inch chainsaws and states 57 drive links.
Our view
One genuine Stihl Picco Micro Mini Comfort 3 is a 35 cm semi-chisel loop at 3/8 inch P, 1.1 mm and 50 drive links, listed at £16.98. Across 1,197 amazon.co.uk reviews it rates 4.6, with part ST3610 000 0050, a stated weight of 140 g and Switzerland as the country of origin. The title also says 14 inch beside the 35 cm length, and it does not print a second drive-link count. The stated fit covers MS170, MS171, MSE140C, MS192C, 017, HT70, HT75, HT100, HT101, HT131 and HTE60. Comfort 3 is the chain name, the item count is 1, and a bullet says international stock may differ. One review says it did not fit an MS211 C, a model absent from that fit list. Where your bar is stamped 35 cm, 3/8 inch P, 1.1 mm and 50 links, this single genuine loop is the top pick.
Pros
- Genuine Stihl, part ST3610 000 0050
- 4.6 from 1,197 amazon.co.uk reviews
- 35 cm, 3/8 inch P, 1.1 mm and 50 drive links
- Stated fit includes MS170, MS171 and named HT pruners
- Stated weight 140 g, country of origin Switzerland
Cons
- One chain, and Comfort 3 is the name rather than a three-pack
- One review did not fit an MS211 C
- A bullet says international stock may differ
Best for: A bar stamped 35 cm, 3/8 inch P, 1.1 mm and 50 links, including the MS170 and HT models named on the listing.
Less suitable: An MS211 C, or anyone who read Comfort 3 as three chains in the box.
Specifications
- Model
- Stihl PMMC3, 35 cm, 50 links
- Brand
- Stihl
- Price
- ∼£17
- Customer rating
- 4.6/5(1,197)
- Pitch
- 3/8 inch P
- Gauge
- 1.1 mm (.043 inch)
- Drive links
- 50
- Bar length
- 35 cm (also 14 inch)
- Cutter type
- Semi-chisel
- Pack size
- 1
- Brand type
- Genuine Stihl
- Guide bar included
- No
- Stated fit
- Named MS170 and HT saws
Common questions
Is this a pack of three chains?
No. The item count is one. Comfort 3 is the chain name on the listing.
Our view
The genuine Stihl PMC3 is one semi-chisel chain at £22.56, listed at 35 cm, 3/8 inch P and 1.3 mm, with an instruction manual and no oil in the pack, although the bullet calls it Oilomatic. The title, part 3636 000 0050 and the item type say 50 drive links, while the specification field says 68. Both figures are printed, so count the chain or the bar before you fit it. Across 587 amazon.co.uk reviews the rating is 4.6, and the stated weight is 200 g from Sweden. The listing names the MS 170, and one UK review says the guide lugs were too thick for an MS 170. The same listing also names MS 171, MS 180, MS 181, MS 190 T and MS 192 T. A 1.3 mm gauge is thicker than the 1.1 mm gauge on the genuine PMMC3 in this set, so confirm the link count before you pay £22.56 for one loop.
Pros
- Genuine Stihl at £22.56, 35 cm, 3/8 inch P and 1.3 mm
- 4.6 from 587 amazon.co.uk reviews
- Part line 3636 000 0050, with an instruction manual
- Names MS 170, MS 180, MS 181 and MS 192 T among other small Stihl saws
- Stated weight 200 g from Sweden
Cons
- Drive links print as 50 and as 68
- One review says the lugs were too thick for an MS 170
- The bullet says Oilomatic, and oil is not in the pack
Best for: A 35 cm bar you have counted yourself, at 3/8 inch P and 1.3 mm, once you have resolved the 50-versus-68 field.
Less suitable: An MS 170 owner who has already met lugs that were too thick, or anyone who needs the listing to show one drive-link count.
Specifications
- Model
- Stihl PMC3, 35 cm, 1.3 mm
- Brand
- Stihl
- Price
- ∼£23
- Customer rating
- 4.6/5(587)
- Pitch
- 3/8 inch P
- Gauge
- 1.3 mm
- Drive links
- Title 50; field 68
- Bar length
- 35 cm
- Cutter type
- Semi-chisel
- Pack size
- 1
- Brand type
- Genuine Stihl
- Guide bar included
- No
- Stated fit
- Named MS170–MS192 T saws
Common questions
How many drive links does the listing state?
The title and part number indicate 50, while the specification field says 68. Count the bar or chain.
Our view
Three Savior chains are listed at a 12 inch (30 cm) cutting length, 44 drive links, 3/8 inch low-profile pitch and .043 inch (1.1 mm), for £18.99. The pitch field also says 0.95 cm, the seller says the loop is about 16 inch including the non-cutting section, and the item length is 40 cm against a chain length of 30 cm. The amazon.co.uk line is 4.6 from 415 reviews, with rank 1 in Chain Saw Chains. The same review text, the same 4.6 from 415 and the same rank line sit on Savior ASIN B0FYPZDC6N, a 4 inch chain with 28 drive links, so those two 415 counts are one block. The listing names 017, 019T, MS170, MS171, MS192T, MS194T and several HT pruners. Country of origin is not stated, and the weight field is 500 g. A bar stamped 44 links can use the stated size, and this rating line is shared with a different chain.
Pros
- Three chains at £18.99 for a stated 12 inch, 44-link, 1.1 mm loop
- Names MS170-class saws and HT pruners
- Seller explains the longer loop against the 12 inch cutting length
- Pitch field prints 0.95 cm beside the 3/8 inch line
Cons
- The 4.6 from 415 reviews is the same text as on the 4 inch Savior ASIN
- Country of origin is not stated
- Rank 1 in Chain Saw Chains is shared with that other ASIN
Best for: A bar you have checked at 44 links, 3/8 inch low profile and 1.1 mm, if you accept that the 415 reviews are not unique to this ASIN.
Less suitable: A buyer who adds the two Savior 415 counts together, or a GTA 26.
Specifications
- Model
- Savior 12 inch, 44 links, 3-pack
- Brand
- Savior
- Price
- ∼£19
- Customer rating
- 4.6/5(415)
- Pitch
- 3/8 inch LP (field 0.95 cm)
- Gauge
- .043 inch (1.1 mm)
- Drive links
- 44
- Bar length
- 12 inch (30 cm)
- Cutter type
- Semi-chisel
- Pack size
- 3
- Brand type
- Compatible
- Guide bar included
- No
- Stated fit
- Named MS170-class and HT saws
Common questions
Are the 415 reviews only for this chain?
No unique review block is shown. The same text, rating and count also appear on the 4 inch Savior ASIN.
Our view
Four Savior chains are listed for a Stihl GTA 26 at a 4 inch (10 cm) cutting length, 1/4 inch pitch, 1.1 mm (.043 inch) and 28 drive links, for £21.99, and the seller cites part 3670 000 0028. The seller says 4 inch is the cutting length and the loop is about 16 cm, while the item-length field is 16.5 cm and the chain-length field is 10 cm. The amazon.co.uk line is 4.6 from 415 reviews, with rank 1 in Chain Saw Chains. That review text, that rating line and that rank are the same as on Savior ASIN B0F9SVJNSR, a 12 inch chain with 44 drive links. You cannot treat the 415 as reports from GTA 26 owners alone. Four chains at £21.99 cost more in this set than the two-chain GTA 26 pack at £9.99. The stated weight is 300 g, and the country of origin is not stated. The 28-link, 1/4 inch size matches a GTA 26 listing, and the shared review block leaves the cutting reports mixed with a 12 inch chain.
Pros
- Four 4 inch chains, 28 drive links, 1/4 inch pitch and 1.1 mm, at £21.99
- Seller cites part 3670 000 0028 for a Stihl GTA 26
- Seller explains a 10 cm cutting length against a loop of about 16 cm
- Stated weight 300 g
Cons
- The 415 reviews and rank 1 match the 12 inch Savior ASIN
- £21.99 for four chains costs more than the £9.99 two-chain GTA 26 pack in this set
- Country of origin is not stated
Best for: A GTA 26 whose bar matches 4 inch, 28 links, 1/4 inch and 1.1 mm, with the shared 415-review block set aside.
Less suitable: Anyone reading the 415 reviews as GTA 26 reports only, or a 12 inch saw.
Specifications
- Model
- Savior GTA 26, 28 links, 4-pack
- Brand
- Savior
- Price
- ∼£22
- Customer rating
- 4.6/5(415)
- Pitch
- 1/4 inch
- Gauge
- 1.1 mm (.043 inch)
- Drive links
- 28
- Bar length
- 4 inch (10 cm)
- Cutter type
- Semi-chisel
- Pack size
- 4
- Brand type
- Compatible
- Guide bar included
- No
- Stated fit
- Stihl GTA 26
Common questions
Can the 415 reviews be read as GTA 26 only?
No. The same review text, rating and count appear on a different 12 inch Savior chain.
Our view
Four FuGuiB semi-chisel chains and cut-resistant gloves are listed for a 12 inch (30 cm) bar at 1/4 inch low-profile pitch, 1.1 mm and 64 drive links, for £18.99. Across 237 amazon.co.uk reviews the rating is 4.6. The listing names MSA 60 C-B, MSA 70 C-B, MSA 120 C-B, MSA 140 C-B, MSA 160 C-B and MSA 200 C-B, plus named John Deere and Power King models. A GTA 26 chain in this set is 4 inch and 28 drive links, so this 64-link loop is a different fit. One review says it did not fit their handheld saw. The gloves do not cite BS EN 381-7, the stated weight is 600 g from China, and two German sentences in the product data about 8 inch saws are not the English specification. Use it when your MSA bar is stamped 64 links and 1/4 inch pitch.
Pros
- Four chains and cut-resistant gloves at £18.99
- 12 inch, 64 drive links, 1/4 inch low profile and 1.1 mm
- Named for MSA 60 C-B through MSA 200 C-B
- 4.6 from 237 amazon.co.uk reviews
Cons
- One review did not fit a handheld saw
- Gloves do not cite BS EN 381-7
- German lines about 8 inch saws are not the English specification
- 4 inch, 28-link GTA 26 size is a different chain
Best for: An MSA battery saw whose bar is stamped 12 inch, 64 drive links, 1/4 inch pitch and 1.1 mm.
Less suitable: A GTA 26, or an MS170-class bar listed in this set at 44 links and 3/8 inch pitch.
Specifications
- Model
- FuGuiB 12 inch, 64 links, 4-pack
- Brand
- FuGuiB
- Price
- ∼£19
- Customer rating
- 4.6/5(237)
- Pitch
- 1/4 inch LP
- Gauge
- 1.1 mm (.043 inch)
- Drive links
- 64
- Bar length
- 12 inch (30 cm)
- Cutter type
- Semi-chisel
- Pack size
- 4
- Brand type
- Compatible
- Guide bar included
- No
- Stated fit
- Named MSA 60–200 C-B saws
Common questions
Is this a GTA 26 chain?
No. The English specification is 12 inch, 1/4 inch LP, 1.1 mm and 64 drive links.
Our view
Two Rotatech chains with 55 drive links and 3/8 inch low-profile pitch are listed at £19.99, and the length and gauge lines disagree. The title says 16 inch (40 cm) and 0.50 inch gauge. The first bullet says a 14 inch guide bar and .050 inch. Across 722 amazon.co.uk reviews the rating is 4.5, and the title names Stihl 018, MS180, MS181, 020, 021, 023, MS200T, MS211, MS201T and MS231. One UK review says the chain would not fit their saw, while other reviews report a fit, including a Stihl MS 231 with a 16 inch bar. A bullet also names Oregon 91PX055E and Stihl 3636 000 0055. The stated weight is 390 g from China, the item length is 40 cm, and both length lines still say 55 drive links. Count the links on your bar, because a title that prints 0.50 inch is a different gauge from a bullet that prints .050 inch.
Pros
- Two chains, 55 drive links, 3/8 inch low profile, at £19.99
- 4.5 from 722 amazon.co.uk reviews
- A bullet names Oregon 91PX055E and Stihl 3636 000 0055
- Some reviews report a fit, including an MS 231 with a 16 inch bar
Cons
- Title says 16 inch and 0.50 inch; the bullet says 14 inch and .050 inch
- One UK review says it would not fit
- The length and gauge conflict is unresolved on the listing
Best for: A bar you have counted at 55 drive links, after you confirm 14 inch or 16 inch and .050 inch rather than the 0.50 inch title line.
Less suitable: Anyone who orders from the title alone, or a bar whose drive-link count is not 55.
Specifications
- Model
- Rotatech 55-link, 2-pack
- Brand
- Rotatech
- Price
- ∼£20
- Customer rating
- 4.5/5(722)
- Pitch
- 3/8 inch LP
- Gauge
- Title 0.50; bullet .050 inch
- Drive links
- 55
- Bar length
- Title 16; bullet 14 inch
- Cutter type
- Semi-chisel
- Pack size
- 2
- Brand type
- Compatible
- Guide bar included
- No
- Stated fit
- Selected MS180–MS231 saws
Common questions
Is this a 14 inch or a 16 inch chain?
The title says 16 inch and the first bullet says 14 inch. Both lines state 55 drive links.
Our view
Two Rotatech chains for a stated 12 inch (30 cm) bar use 3/8 inch low-profile pitch, 1.1 mm (.043 inch) and 44 drive links, at £17.99. Across 680 amazon.co.uk reviews the rating is 4.5. The listing names selected Stihl MS170, MS171, MS192, MS192T, MSE140 and MSE170 saws, plus selected Echo saws, at a stated 281 g from China. Reviews include a loop about 5 mm short on a 12 inch Makita bar, a loop too tight to seat, and a buyer whose DeWalt 12 inch bar did not match. The seller says German steel while the origin line says China, and a low-kickback phrase appears with no lab figure. Rank is 27 in Chain Saw Chains. The pair suits a bar that already shows 44 links and 1.1 mm, once you have compared it with the chain that came off your saw.
Pros
- Two 12 inch chains at £17.99
- 44 drive links, 1.1 mm and 3/8 inch low profile
- 4.5 from 680 amazon.co.uk reviews
- Names selected MS170, MS171 and MS192 saws, plus selected Echo saws
Cons
- A loop about 5 mm short on a 12 inch Makita bar
- A loop too tight to seat, and a DeWalt 12 inch bar that did not match
- German-steel claim with China as the country of origin
Best for: A Stihl bar in the named MS170-class list that you have checked at 44 links and 1.1 mm.
Less suitable: A Makita or DeWalt 12 inch bar, given the fit reports in the reviews.
Specifications
- Model
- Rotatech 12 inch, 44 links, 2-pack
- Brand
- Rotatech
- Price
- ∼£18
- Customer rating
- 4.5/5(680)
- Pitch
- 3/8 inch LP
- Gauge
- 1.1 mm (.043 inch)
- Drive links
- 44
- Bar length
- 12 inch (30 cm)
- Cutter type
- 3/8 inch
- Pack size
- 2
- Brand type
- Compatible
- Guide bar included
- No
- Stated fit
- Named MS170-class and Echo saws
Common questions
Have reviewers reported fit problems?
Yes. Reports include a short loop, a loop too tight to seat and a DeWalt bar that did not match.
Our view
Three CHAMSUREUK semi-chisel chains are listed for a 12 inch (30 cm) bar, with 44 drive links, 3/8 inch low-profile pitch and .043 inch (1.1 mm) gauge, at £15.99. Across 1,360 amazon.co.uk reviews the rating is 4.4, the largest review count in this set, and the rank is 2 in Chain Saw Chains. The listing names 017, 019T, MS170, MS170C, MS171, MSE170C, MS190, MS191T, MS192T and MS194T, plus several HT and PPF pruners. The seller says 12 inch is the cutting length, and that the loop including the non-cutting run is about 16 inch. Some reviews describe 16 inch saws, so a 44-link loop can be bought for a longer bar than the cutting length stated. Three chains at £15.99, with this review count and a stated pitch, gauge and link count that agree, are the best value in the set. The stated weight is 410 g from China, and the box does not include a guide bar.
Pros
- Three semi-chisel chains at £15.99
- 12 inch, 44 drive links, 3/8 inch low profile and 1.1 mm, with named MS170-class saws
- 4.4 from 1,360 amazon.co.uk reviews
- Rank 2 in Chain Saw Chains
Cons
- Some reviews describe 16 inch saws
- 4.4 sits below the 4.6 and 4.7 lines in this set
- No guide bar in the box
- Compatible chain, not a genuine Stihl part
Best for: An MS170-class or named HT or PPF bar stamped 12 inch, 44 links, 3/8 inch low profile and 1.1 mm, when you want three spares at £15.99.
Less suitable: A 16 inch bar, or a buyer who wants a genuine Stihl chain.
Specifications
- Model
- CHAMSUREUK 12 inch, 44 links, 3-pack
- Brand
- CHAMSUREUK
- Price
- ∼£16
- Customer rating
- 4.4/5(1,360)
- Pitch
- 3/8 inch LP
- Gauge
- .043 inch (1.1 mm)
- Drive links
- 44
- Bar length
- 12 inch (30 cm)
- Cutter type
- Semi-chisel
- Pack size
- 3
- Brand type
- Compatible
- Guide bar included
- No
- Stated fit
- Named MS170-class and HT saws
Common questions
What are the fit numbers?
The listing states a 12 inch bar, 3/8 inch LP pitch, .043 inch gauge and 44 drive links.
Our view
Two Rotatech chains for a 14 inch (35 cm) bar use 3/8 inch low-profile pitch, 1.3 mm (.050 inch) gauge and 50 drive links, at £17.99 for the pair. Across 915 amazon.co.uk reviews the rating is 4.4, and the listing names selected 017, 018, MS180, MS181, 020, 021, 023, MS200T, MS201T, MS211 and MS231 saws. The seller calls them a low-kickback semi-chisel chain, and one UK review says these kicked back more than a Stihl chain. The file has no lab figure behind that phrase. The weight field prints 20 g, set against 140 g for the genuine 35 cm chain and 390 g for the 55-link Rotatech pair in this set. The seller says German steel while the country of origin is China. Rank is 11 in Chain Saw Chains, and the pack has no guide bar. Match the 1.3 mm gauge on your bar, and treat the kickback line as one review rather than a test result.
Pros
- Two 14 inch chains at £17.99
- 1.3 mm, 50 drive links and 3/8 inch low profile
- 4.4 from 915 amazon.co.uk reviews
- Names selected MS180, MS181, MS211 and MS231 saws
Cons
- One UK review reports more kickback than a Stihl chain
- Weight field is 20 g
- Seller says German steel and the origin is China
- No guide bar
Best for: A selected 14 inch Stihl bar stamped 1.3 mm and 50 links, when you want two compatible loops.
Less suitable: A 1.1 mm bar, or anyone treating the low-kickback line as a lab result.
Specifications
- Model
- Rotatech 14 inch, 50 links, 2-pack
- Brand
- Rotatech
- Price
- ∼£18
- Customer rating
- 4.4/5(915)
- Pitch
- 3/8 inch LP
- Gauge
- 1.3 mm (.050 inch)
- Drive links
- 50
- Bar length
- 14 inch (35 cm)
- Cutter type
- Low-kickback semi-chisel
- Pack size
- 2
- Brand type
- Compatible
- Guide bar included
- No
- Stated fit
- Selected MS180–MS231 saws
Common questions
What does low kickback mean here?
It is the seller's phrase, not a measured result. One UK review reports more kickback than a Stihl chain.
Our view
The Rotatech set pairs one 14 inch chain with one guide bar, at 3/8 inch low profile, 1.1 mm (.043 inch) and 50 drive links, for £27.99, and the title says it fits a Stihl MS201T. Across 12 amazon.co.uk reviews the rating is 4.4. One of the two printed reviews calls it a quality-looking piece of kit. The other reports late delivery, crushed-looking packaging and a suspected bad bearing at the bar nose. The seller says the bar should be changed about every three chains, and the listing note marks that as a seller sentence. The stated weight is 600 g from China, rank is 238 in Chain Saw Chains, and the listing does not show that every MS201T mount matches this bar. It is the only pack in this set that includes a guide bar, so you are buying a bar fitting as well as a 50-link chain, and 12 reviews leave the bearing report as one of two texts.
Pros
- One chain and one guide bar at £27.99
- 14 inch, 50 drive links, 3/8 inch low profile and 1.1 mm
- Title names the Stihl MS201T
- One printed review calls it a quality-looking piece of kit
Cons
- Only 12 amazon.co.uk reviews
- One review reports crushed packaging and a suspected bad bearing at the bar nose
- The every-three-chains bar-change line is a seller sentence
Best for: An MS201T whose 14 inch bar you are replacing together with the chain, after you check the bar mount.
Less suitable: Anyone who only needs a chain, or a buyer who wants more than two written reviews before trusting the bar nose.
Specifications
- Model
- Rotatech 14 inch chain and bar
- Brand
- Rotatech
- Price
- ∼£28
- Customer rating
- 4.4/5(12)
- Pitch
- 3/8 inch LP
- Gauge
- 1.1 mm (.043 inch)
- Drive links
- 50
- Bar length
- 14 inch
- Cutter type
- Low profile
- Pack size
- 1 chain and 1 bar
- Brand type
- Compatible
- Guide bar included
- Yes
- Stated fit
- Stihl MS201T (title)
Common questions
What is in the pack?
One chain and one guide bar, stated at 14 inch, 50 links, 3/8 inch low profile and 1.1 mm.
How we compared
We compared 12 amazon.co.uk listings using their stated specifications, prices, ratings and review counts, then checked buyer-facing safety and fit guidance against public UK sources. Scores are editorial comparisons of the available evidence, not results from a laboratory or cutting trial.
1
Fit specification
35%Pitch, gauge and drive-link count carry the greatest weight because all three must match the bar.
2
Listing consistency
20%Conflicting length, gauge or drive-link fields reduce confidence in what will arrive.
3
Review evidence
20%Amazon stars and genuine review counts provide context, with shared or very small review blocks treated cautiously.
4
Pack value
15%The UK price is considered alongside the number of chains and whether a guide bar or gloves are included.
5
Limitations and safety
10%Fit complaints, unsupported low-kickback wording and missing PPE certification are retained as limitations.
Independent review
Last updated: 15.10.2026
8 sources checked
Stihl chainsaw chain buying guide
Start with the markings on your own guide bar, not a product title that happens to name your saw. The decisive combination is pitch, gauge and drive-link count. Pack size, genuine or compatible branding and review volume matter only after those three numbers agree. Several listings here contain conflicting fields, which is a reason to pause and count rather than infer.
What is a replacement Stihl chainsaw chain?
A replacement saw chain is a closed loop selected for a particular guide-bar and drive-sprocket specification. In this comparison, the pitch is either 1/4 inch or a 3/8 inch P or low-profile form. Gauge is the thickness of the drive links that sit in the bar groove, shown here as 1.1 mm (.043 inch) or 1.3 mm (.050 inch). Drive-link count is the number of links running inside that groove, and the listings span 28, 44, 50, 55, 57 and 64. All three values must agree with your bar.
Best for
- Owners replacing a loop on a small Stihl saw after checking all three fit numbers
- Buyers comparing genuine Picco chains with compatible multi-packs
Not ideal for
- Anyone ordering from a model name or bar length alone
- Workplace operators looking for training or PPE certification
Mistakes to avoid
- 1
Ordering by saw model
A model family can appear with different bars and gauges. Match pitch, gauge and drive-link count instead.
- 2
Treating 3/8 inch and 3/8 inch P as identical
The Picco or low-profile designation matters. Do not infer interchangeability from the 3/8 figure alone.
- 3
Fitting or running the chain incorrectly
Follow the direction arrows, set the tension with the engine stopped and use chain oil on every power type.
What to weigh up
Pitch, gauge and drive links
HighThese are the three non-negotiable fit numbers. Pitch describes the chain and sprocket spacing; this set uses 1/4 inch and 3/8 inch P or low-profile variants. Gauge is the drive-link thickness that must fit the bar groove, mainly 1.1 mm or 1.3 mm here. Drive-link count determines the loop length around the bar and sprocket. The listings range from 28 links for GTA 26 chains to 64 links for selected MSA battery saws. Do not substitute a nearby count or rely on a matching model name.
Pack value and listing evidence
HighCompare the price with the number of chain loops and any included bar or gloves only after fit is confirmed. A compatible multi-pack can cost less per loop than one genuine Picco chain, but the listing may carry a small review sample, shared review block or conflicting field. Genuine branding does not remove the need to match the numbers: one genuine PMC3 listing names the MS 170 while a UK review reports lugs that were too thick.
Which option suits you?
Three typical situations, each with a recommendation from this comparison.
MS170-class owner
You have confirmed a 12 inch, 44-link, 3/8 inch low-profile and 1.1 mm bar and want several compatible spares at a lower cost per loop.
MSA battery-saw owner
Your MSA bar is marked 12 inch, 64 links, 1/4 inch and 1.1 mm. This is a different specification from the GTA 26 and MS170-class loops.
Common questions about Stihl chainsaw chains
What is the top Stihl chainsaw chain in this comparison?
The genuine Stihl PMMC3 is the top pick for a bar marked 35 cm, 3/8 inch P, 1.1 mm and 50 drive links. Its listing shows 4.6 stars from 1,197 reviews. It is not a universal Stihl chain, so those three fit numbers still have to match your bar.
How much does a Stihl chainsaw chain cost?
The 12 amazon.co.uk listings in this comparison ranged from £9.99 to £27.99 on 15 October 2026. Compatible multi-packs often put each loop below £10, while the two genuine Picco listings cost about £17 to £23 for one chain. Prices can change after the comparison date.
How do I choose the right chain for a Stihl saw?
Match the pitch, gauge and drive-link count printed on the guide bar or old chain. A model name and bar length are not enough because one saw family can appear with more than one specification. The Stihl chainsaw chain buying guide explains how to read all three numbers.
Are 3/8 inch and 3/8 inch P chains interchangeable?
No. Treat 3/8 inch P or low-profile and standard 3/8 inch as distinct specifications. Stihl lists Picco chains for 3/8 inch P separately, and the gauge and drive-link count must also match. Do not fit a chain only because both listings contain the number 3/8.
Is a genuine Stihl chain always better than a compatible pack?
The listings do not prove that every genuine chain lasts longer than every compatible one. Genuine PMMC3 offers a clear part and specification, while compatible packs can cost less per loop. Choose only after the three fit numbers match, then weigh listing consistency, pack size, reviews and the type of timber you cut.
Can I rely on a low-kickback claim?
No listing phrase removes kickback, and this comparison did not run a kickback test. One Rotatech review reports more kickback than a Stihl chain despite the seller wording. Correct fit, tension, chain condition, training and suitable protective equipment remain necessary.
When should I stop and get professional help?
Stop if the chain will not seat after all three numbers match, a tooth is broken, the chain has derailed hard or the bar nose is damaged. Work off the ground, top-handled petrol saws and workplace use need additional competence and controls. See when to call a tree surgeon for the wider job decision.
Our verdict
The genuine Stihl PMMC3 is the top pick where a bar matches its 35 cm, 3/8 inch P, 1.1 mm and 50-link specification. The CHAMSUREUK three-pack is the best-value pick for a confirmed 12 inch, 44-link, 1.1 mm MS170-class fit. Neither choice is interchangeable with every Stihl saw, so the pitch, gauge and drive-link count on your own bar remain decisive.
Best value
View offer
CHAMSUREUK 12 inch, 44 links, 3-pack
It supplies three consistently specified 44-link chains for £15.99 and has the largest review count in this set.
Editorial
Editor
Amazon.co.uk listingsPublic UK sourcesBuying guides
Products Compared publishes British-English buying guides based on amazon.co.uk listings and public UK sources. We do not run a lab and we do not invent test scores.
Updated: 15.10.2026
8 sources checked
Guides to Stihl chainsaw chains
Guides on what to look for, how to use a product, and common mistakes.
Stihl chainsaw chain buying guideMatch pitch, gauge and drive-link count.Best Stihl chainsaw chains by fitConditional picks for different bar specifications.How to fit a Stihl chainsaw chainDirection, tension and chain-oil guidance.Genuine vs compatible chainsCompare one genuine loop with compatible multi-packs.Stihl GTA 26 chainsCompare the 4 inch, 28-link options.
Related comparisons
Sources
Public UK and product-listing sources, last accessed 15 October 2026.
- HSE — Working with chainsaws (retrieved 15.10.2026)
- HSE — INDG317 Chainsaws at work (retrieved 15.10.2026)
- HSE — Chainsaw personal protective equipment (retrieved 15.10.2026)
- PUWER 1998 — Regulation 5 (retrieved 15.10.2026)
- Consumer Rights Act 2015 — Section 9 (retrieved 15.10.2026)
- STIHL GB — Chains and bars (retrieved 15.10.2026)
- STIHL GB — Replacing a chainsaw chain (retrieved 15.10.2026)
- Amazon.co.uk — Example Stihl PMMC3 listing (retrieved 15.10.2026)
Expert source (DIY & tools): Charlie White (Charlie DIYte) (external profile) – public expert commentary used as a research source, not as a contributor to our pages.
This article contains affiliate links. If you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. The editorial comparison is based on amazon.co.uk listings and public UK sources, not a laboratory test.