Felling in another direction requires a special technique, more effort, and is sometimes just impossible. Insert the tree-felling wedge into this cut, pointing at the direction you want the tree to fall. So, pick the one that seems most logical to you, and over time, try out each type of notch on other trees so you can find the one you like best. If you're felling a tree that's more than 18 in. Using a bull rope to help direct a tree is very common, especially when felling a tree that is near a building or power line. How to Cut a Tree & Make It Fall Where You Want. of tree). FELLING TREES Determine and develop a safe and efficient felling pattern from visual ob-servation. With your saw at full throttle, plunge the bar of your saw straight through the trunk of the tree, carefully straightening your angle of attack to minimize kickback and to avoid cutting through your hinge. If the two cuts do not meet exactly (bypass0 the notch cannot perform its function. Do not underestimate the tree’s mass. Draw a Line on the Trunk The basic felling procedure is to cut a notch on the side of the tree toward the direction you want it to fall, using a chain saw, and then finish cutting through the trunk from the opposite side. Just shy of finishing the notch, one sawyer showed us how to use an axe as a “gun stick” or felling gauge: He placed the head of the axe flat against the back of the cut notch, then looked down the handle, which indicated the direction in which the tree would fall. The open-faced notch is perfect for trees that require a high level of accuracy. The felling cut should meet the point of the notch. Felling wedges – whether you make them yourself or buy them from a store, felling wedges are an essential tool to keep your saw from getting pinched while cutting. Doing it right, you first want to put tension on the rope. Score a line connecting the apex of the notch on both sides for a cutting guide. Angle of Attack Important -- cut downward at an angle of 70 degrees. • Opening angle of at least 45°. If so, skip the felling and call a pro. They should be about 45 degrees away from each other in opposite directions. If you’re inexperienced or feel unsure – get help and guidance from a professional. There are particular techniques that need to be followed to preserve the wood and ensure the safety of the people cutting down the tree. We cut hardwood which gets fatter a fue inch from the ground. By keeping your eye on the falling tree, you can dramatically reduce the risk of being seriously injured. (The tree pictured is larger than his bar, so he cut in half way from each side.) Some of my friends were less fortunate and suffered severe injuries. A leaner exemplifies an accident ready to happen and needs fixing as soon as possible. Safety must be of utmost priority when approaching a tree to cut. - Kevlar chaps, which will stop a chain instantly should you happen to drop the bar against your leg. Felling a tree in the opposite direction is not just challenging but can be interesting as well. The type of notch described here is an open directional notch. When the tree begins to fall, move away down your escape path. Cut a log into 16-in. While multiple methods of cutting down a leaner abound, unfortunately only one or two techniques work well enough to use safely. Believe it or not, but “how do I start a chainsaw?” is a common question (or at least a frequent Google search) amongst chainsaw users. Humboldt cut or inverse notch. It is curious that an axe most naturally cuts best at a 45 degree angle, and thus forms a 45 degree notch opening; hence the tradition of using a 45 degree notch has been carried forward to modern day. And with a little bit of required knowledge and the right tools, you can successfully cut a leaning tree in the opposite direction. How to Cut a Tree & Make It Fall Where You Want. When the tree starts to fall, quickly walk away from the tree at a 45 degree angle. However, if the tree is a manageable size, you may choose to tackle the job yourself. Take a rope (make sure it is much longer than your tree) and either climb it or install a little log and the end of it. Husqvarna is a very popular brand for high quality chainsaws with long-lasting durability from light duty to heavy-duty performance. After felling the tree, cut off branches starting at the lower end of the trunk and working to the top. The easiest choice is to fell the tree in the direction it would naturally fall due to slope, overhang and wind direction. This is a safe and efficient way to fell a tree that is on a steep slope or prone to splitting. STIHL recommends two ways to fell a tree: the conventional cut and the open-face cut. The function of the notch is to allow the tree to fall without breaking the hinge prematurely. How-to fell a tree: Watch Husqvarna's qualified trainer cut down a tree using proper methods and techniques. Move to the other side of the tree and start slowly cutting into the tree until you meet your notch cut. Watch the following video to learn how to cut down a tree safely and efficiently. They can also provide the leverage one needs in order to drop the tree from a standing position without having the chainsaw in hand. Never take your eye off a falling tree. The old-timer that taught me showed me what he called a hinge notch. In the following video, you can learn proper methods for creating different notches and techniques for maintaining a correct hinge so that you will fell a tree safely and comfortably. When it comes to safety clothing and equipment, different rules and regulations apply in different countries. Stand beside the tree and behind your saw, with your chainsaw positioned to begin cutting the top cut of the notch aiming the sights in the direction you want to fall the tree. On the off chance that the individual is cutting in a tight spot, where accuracy is pertinent, the open-faced notch is considered the safest and secure notch to use. How to Cut Down a Tree. You can control the direction your tree falls by cutting your first notch on the side of the tree that faces the direction you want the tree to fall. When felling a tree, you'll be a lot safer if you have a trusted assistant standing a few feet behind you watching the top of the tree for falling branches and letting you know when the tree starts to fall. The number one cut is made as per the diagram, at the same height above the notch as a standard back cut. The type of notch you choose to fell a tree is personal preference. More people are injured while felling trees than during any other logging activity. Cutting down a mature tree isn’t as easy as just stroking away at it with an axe. The felling cut should meet the point of the notch. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer), Do Not Sell My Personal Information – CA Residents. Whenever possible, stand on the uphill side of the tree. The notch is made on the side of the tree that faces the direction you want it to fall. Run – When the tree is on its way down, use your escape route to get safely clear of it. For your Bug out Arsenal so he cut in a slightly upward direction,. The leverage one needs in order to minimize the risk of accidents but can be as. The notched corner cut, adjust your hand to control the throttle with your thumb of... 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