Kickback, carbon monoxide poisoning, vibration disease, and hearing loss are the primary risks of using a chainsaw. So to use one safely and effectively, you should have experience and knowledge of chainsaw cutting techniques.
This article will teach you these techniques and some safety tips you can use for your tree-cutting tasks.
10 Safe and Proper Chainsaw Techniques
#1: Overbucking - The Overcutting Method
To chop logs lengthwise is the simplest and safest way. This technique consists of making a vertical cut through a log while the log is resting vertically on the ground.
#2: Underbucking - The Undercutting Method
This method is the opposite of overbucking and is also known as undercutting. The log is halved horizontally. You’ll save time and effort by cutting wood this way.
It will only take you a third as long as the overbucking method. The chainsaw will not get caught on the log when you employ this method.
#3: Method for Pruning Trees
When the tree is standing straight, the branches and limbs are pruned. To begin, you must locate the problematic branches.
- Once you’ve figured out which branches require cutting, you’ll want to ensure you’re standing firmly on something and that your workspace is uncluttered.
- Cut the branch about a third of its size and underbuck it about a foot from the main trunk.
- To lighten the pressure on the branch, overbuck it 2–4 inches from the first cut.
- Remove the branch by making a last overcut near the trunk.
If you prune branches close to the trunk, the bark will regrow and seal the wound, allowing the tree to grow and thrive.
You shouldn’t lop off any huge limbs higher than your shoulder because it is extremely risky and could cause harm.
#4: Method for Limbing Trees
This method cuts off branches from downed trees, as the name suggests. Expertise and extreme caution are needed while implementing this method.
- Start by removing dead or dying wood. The tree’s posture won’t change when you cut these branches off.
- Check the other branches to see if you can predict the log’s movement after eliminating these.
- Now that you know which branches to remove, you need to figure out which side the tree will fall. Turn around and begin severing the limbs as you stand in this position. Also, nobody should be in the path of the tree’s potential roll.
The undercutting method is often the best option to avoid pinching or becoming trapped during cutting.
If the tree breaks away and causes an accident, you should be ready to take evasive action to avoid getting hurt. So we suggest knowing how to cut branches with a chainsaw properly.
#5: Method to Cut a Log Supported on One End
If you’re underbucking a log that’s being supported on one end, follow the steps below.
- Start by cutting about a third of the way through the log.
- Next, you’ll need to cut it from above to avoid pinching the blade.
- Now, it’s important to anticipate where the log will land, so you’re not in its way.
#6: Method to Cut a Log Supported on Both Ends - Crosscutting
Cross-cutting is employed when slicing through a supported log on both ends. This technique is preferred over overbucking or underbucking because the bow will naturally fall toward the region being cut as you cut the log.
And if you use a crosscutting technique with your chainsaw, you won’t have to worry about your saw getting pinched or stuck within the wood.
- Cut the log from the top about a third to initiate the cross-cutting chainsaw method.
- The underbucking method entails slicing through the log from underneath and working your way up until you hit the initial slash.
- The log should break in half and tumble downward as you near the top cut due to the weight of the wood.
Prepare for the saw pushing back at you, and hold tight to the gear. You need to be careful not to pull too hard as you make your cut. You risk injuring yourself if you do since the arrow will fly out of the wood and straight at you.
To avoid injury, keep your feet out of the way of the splintered logs.
#7: Method to Cut a Log on the Ground
The overbucking method is used when chopping a log lying flat on the ground.
- Simply make a series of cuts across the log’s top to create a split. To avoid damaging the chainsaw, keep it off the floor.
- Let the chainsaw do the work for you, and drive the chain bar further into the wood with the help of its teeth.
- The nose of the guide bar and the chain should not make contact with the ground at any time. A kickback or worn chain could result from doing this.
In the event that the saw becomes jammed, it is necessary to place it down, stop the chainsaw, and then proceed to release it. Then you can ease the strain by driving a wedge into the opening. After that, you can erase it from the record.
#9: Method to Cut a Log on a Hill
Your position is the most important factor when felling a tree on a slope. Always keep your back to the hill. So that, even if it falls over, you will not get wounded.
When you’re ready to make the best, safest chainsaw cut, utilize one of the methods described above.
#10: Stump Cutting Method
Even though there are many options for removing a tree’s base, this is the simplest and most reliable way.
- The area around the stump should have as much dirt dug out as possible. Remove the dirt and grime with a power washer or a hose. You’ll be able to operate the chainsaw more freely and without worrying about damaging or dulling the chain due to debris.
- You might use an old chain for the task. If it works thus low to the ground, it will inevitably be damaged.
- To get the closest to the surface, use a horizontal cut. Use caution and a steady hand with the chainsaw.
- Use a wedge to maintain a space between the upper and bottom levels of wood if you discover that the saw chain is being pinched.
Chainsaw Safety Reminders
When using a chainsaw to chop wood, your first thought should be on safety. To avoid any untoward accidents [1], please take the following safety precautions.
- Don't lose your grounding, and keep a firm hold on the chainsaw.
- When felling a tree on a slope, it's best to face the direction of the hill.
- Put on your safety gear before cutting with a chainsaw. Gloves, steel-toed boots, and helmets are all part of the safety gear.
- Never fell a tree if it is higher than your chest.
- You can never tell on which side of the tree you're cutting it down. That's why you should look around before chopping down that tree. Then, quickly relocate to a safe area before the tree crashes down.
- To avoid getting your chainsaw jammed, try overbucking and underbucking simultaneously.
- You should cut off the power to the chainsaw if it becomes jammed. You can retrieve the chainsaw after the pressure is relieved using a wedge.
- Remove any broken or weak branches before chopping down a tree. Then chop down the ones that are keeping the tree upright.
FAQ
How do you cut down a tree without pinching a chainsaw?
You can cut down a tree without pinching a chainsaw by mixing overbucking and underbucking methods. Overcut the log to a size roughly a third of its original diameter first.
The log is then divided in half through an undercut and an overcut. You can use this to fell a tree without risking a pinch.
Why does a chainsaw stop in the middle of cutting?
If the blade on your chainsaw gets dull, you won’t be able to cut anything. If so, the knife needs to be sharpened. Also, a common cause is a too-tight chain. Reduce the force on the chain and readjust it.
What techniques can I use to split larger logs with a chainsaw?
Larger logs can be split by overbucking and underbucking. Underbucking is two-thirds as fast as overbucking and saves time in the long run.
What are the methods of cutting a stump using a chainsaw?
To keep the chainsaw from becoming clogged up, you should first clear the area around the stump. Then, cut horizontally as low to the earth as you can. Keep your hand on the saw’s handle until the entire stump is gone.
See Also: CutList Optimization Software Review
Conclusion
As seen above, overbucking and underbucking are two of the most common chainsaw cutting techniques used to chop trees, branches, and logs.
If you follow these methods, you should be able to accomplish most standard tree-cutting tasks. You should use a reliable limbing chainsaw two inches longer than the log you’re chopping. A chainsaw, typically 16 or 18 inches in length, is the most versatile tool you can use.
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