OPERATION
19
Before felling is started, consider the natural lean of the tree,
the location of larger branches and the wind direction to judge
which way the tree will fall. Remove dirt, stones, loose bark,
nails, staples and wire from the tree.
Make the notch 1/3 the diameter of the tree, perpendicular to
the direction of fall (Fig. 11). Make the lower horizontal notch-
ing cut first. This will help to avoid pinching either the saw
chain or the guide bar when the second notch is being made.
FELLING BACK A CUT
Make the felling back cut at least 50mm higher than the hori-
zontal notching cut (Fig. 11). Keep the felling back cut paral-
lel to the horizontal notching cut. Make the felling back cut so
enough wood is left to act as a hinge. The hinge wood keeps
the tree from twisting and falling in the wrong direction. Do not
cut through the hinge.
As the felling gets close to the hinge, the tree should begin to
fall. If there is any chance that the tree may not fall in desired
direction or it may rock back and bind the saw chain, stop cut-
ting before the felling back cut is complete and use wedges of
wood, plastic or aluminum to open the cut and drop the tree
along the desired line of fall.
When the tree begins to fall remove the chainsaw from the cut,
stop the motor, put the chain saw down, then use the retreat
path planned. Be alert for overhead limbs falling and watch
your footing.
BUCKING A LOG
Bucking is cutting a log into lengths. It is important to make
sure your footing is firm and your weight is evenly distributed
on both feet. When possible, the log should be raised and sup-
ported by the use of limbs, logs or chocks. Follow these simple
directions for easy cutting.
Undercutting
Direction of Fall
Felling Back-cut
Notch
50mm
50mm
Hinge
Fig. 11
Cut from top (overbuck), avoid
cutting earth.
Fig. 12
Support Log Along the
Entire Length
Support Log on One End
2
nd
cut overbuck
(Ø ²/3) to meet
1
st
cut (to avoid
pinching)
1st cut underbuck (Ø
¹/3) to avoid splintering
Fig. 13
When the log is supported along its entire length (Fig. 12), it is
cut from the top (overbuck).
When the log is supported on one end (Fig. 13), cut 1/3 the
diameter from the underside (underbuck). Then make the fin-
ished cut by overbucking to meet the first cut.
Instructions continue on the next page.
NOTE: Never allow the saw chain
to contact dirt or soil, doing so
will severely dull the cutting links
and shorten the life of the chain.
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