GB
20
03/2017
Notching undercut
Make the notch 1/3 the diameter of the tree, perpendicular to the direction of falls as
illustrated in Figure 18. Make the lower horizontal notching 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 cut
Make the felling back cut at least 50 mm higher than the horizontal notching cut as
illustrated in Figure 18. Keep the felling back cut parallel 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 cutting before the felling back cut is complete and use wedges of
wood, plastic or aluminium to open the cut and drop the tree along the desired line of
fall.
When the tree begins to fall remove the chain saw 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.
Fig.18 Description of felling:undercutting
