POWXG10220 EN
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Warning: don't put pressure on the saw when reaching the end of the cut.
The pressure may cause the bar and chain to rotate. If the rotating chain
strikes some other object, a reactive force may cause moving chain to strike
the operator.
10.8 General cutting instructions
10.8.1 Felling
Felling is the term for cutting down a tree. Small trees up to 6-7 inches (15-18 cm) in diameter
are usually cut in a single cut. Larger trees require notch cuts. Notch cuts determine the direction
the tree will fall.
Felling a tree:
Warning: a retreat path (A) should be planned and cleared as necessary
before cuts are started. The retreat path should extend back and diagonally
to the rear of the expected line of fall, as illustrated in Fig. 11a
Caution: if felling a tree on sloping ground, the chain saw operator should
keep on the uphill side of the terrain, as the tree is likely to roll or slide
downhill after it is felled.
Note: direction of fall (B) is controlled by the notching cut. Before any cuts
are made, consider the location of larger branches and natural lean of the
tree to determine the way the tree will fall.
Warning: do not cut down a tree during high or changing winds or if there is
a danger to property. Consult a tree professional. Do not cut down a tree if
there is a danger of striking utility wires; notify the utility company before
making any cuts.
General guidelines for felling trees: (Fig 11B)
Normally felling consists of 2 main cutting operations, notching (C) and making the felling cut
(D). Start making the upper notch cut (C) on the side of the tree facing the felling direction (E).
Be sure you don t make the lower cut too deep into the trunk.
The notch (C) should be deep enough to create a hinge (F) of sufficient width and strength. The
notch should be wide enough to direct the fall of the tree for as long as possible.
WARNING: Never walk in front of a tree that has been notched. Make the
felling cut (D) from the other side of the tree and 1.5 - 2.0 inches (3-5 cm)
above the edge of the notch (C) (Fig. 11b)
Never saw completely through the trunk. Always leave a hinge. The hinge guides the tree. If the
trunk is completely cut through, control over the felling direction is lost.
Insert a wedge or felling lever in the cut well before the tree becomes unstable and starts to
move. This will prevent the guide bar from binding in the felling cut if you have misjudged the
falling direction. Make sure no bystanders have entered the range of the falling tree before you
push it over.
