The partition functions of discrete as well as continuous stiff molecular chains are calculated using the maximum entropy principle. The chain is described by mass points, and their connectivity is taken into account by harmonic constraints (flexible segments) in addition to the bending restrictions. For comparison and as a test of the formalism the freely rotating chain as well as the Kratky-Porod wormlike chain (rigid segments) are reexamined treating the bending restrictions as constraints. It is shown that the second moments for the chain of flexible segments agree exactly with those known from the freely rotating chain for the discrete as well as the continuous chain and for all stiffnesses. Moreover, the Green’s function for the continuous chain is determined, which allows to obtain any desired two point distribution function. The influence of various bending restrictions on equilibrium properties is discussed. Furthermore, a comparison to other existing models, especially the Harris and Hearst model, is given and the validity of the various models is examined.