POWDPG7576 EN
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Felling cut:
▪ Use wooden or plastic wedges (A) to prevent binding the bar or chain (B) in the cut.
Wedges also control felling (fig. 10.c)
▪ When diameter of wood being cut is greater than the bar length, make 2 cuts as shown
(fig. 10d).
WARNING: As the felling cut gets close to the hinge, the tree should begin to
fall. When tree begins to fall, remove saw from cut, stop engine, put chain
saw down, and leave area along retreat path (Fig. 10a).
13.2 Limbing
Limbing a tree is the process of removing the branches from a fallen tree. Do not remove
supporting limbs until after the log is bucked (cut) into lengths (Fig. 11).
Branches under tension should be cut from the bottom up to avoid binding the chain saw.
WARNING: Never cut tree limbs while standing on tree trunk.
13.3 Bucking
Bucking is cutting a fallen log into lengths. Make sure you have a good footing and stand uphill
of the log when cutting on sloping ground. If possible, the log should be supported so that the
end to be cut off is not resting on the ground. If the log is supported at both ends and you must
cut in the middle, make a downward cut halfway through the log and then make the undercut.
This will prevent the log from pinching the bar and chain. Be careful that the chain does not cut
into the ground when bucking as this causes rapid dulling of the chain. When bucking on a
slope, always stand on the uphill side.
▪ Log supported along entire length: Cut from top (overbuck), being careful to avoid cutting
into the ground (Fig. 12a).
▪ Log supported on 1 end: First, cut from bottom (underbuck) 1/3 diameter of log to avoid
splintering. Second, cut from above (overbuck) to meet first cut and avoid pinching (Fig.
12b).
▪ Log supported on both ends: First, overbuck 1/3 diameter of log to avoid splintering.
Second, underbuck to meet first cut and avoid pinching (Fig. 12c)
NOTE: The best way to hold a log while bucking is to use a sawhorse. When
this is not possible, the log should be raised and supported by the limb
stumps or by using supporting logs. Be sure the log being cut is securely
supported.
13.4 Bucking using a sawhorse
For personal safety and ease of cutting, the correct position for vertical bucking is essential (fig.
13).
Vertical cutting:
▪ Hold the saw firmly with both hands and keep the saw to the right of your body while
cutting.
▪ Keep the left arm as straight as possible.
▪ Keep weight on both feet.
Caution: while the saw is cutting, be sure the chain and bar are being
properly lubricated.