Cutting Fully-Supported Logs
When logs are supported along the entire length, extra care should
be taken to make sure the saw chain does not contact the ground
or other support structure (Fig. 31).
1. Cut through the log as much as possible, without cutting into
the ground or support structure. Cut from above (overbucking).
Refer to Overbucking.
2. Roll the log over and finish cutting through the log from above
(overbucking).
Overbucking
1. Begin cutting from above, with the bottom of the saw chain
against the top of the log (Fig. 31).
2. Exert light, downward pressure. The saw will tend to pull away
from the operator. Be prepared and hold the saw firmly to
maintain control.
Underbucking
1. Begin cutting from below, with the top of the saw chain against
the bottom of the log (Fig. 32).
2. Exert light, upward pressure. The saw will tend to push toward the
operator. Be prepared and hold the saw firmly to maintain control.
PRUNING
WARNING:
Do not cut above shoulder height with a
chain saw. Use a pole saw to cut limbs above shoulder
height or hire a professional. Do not operate the unit in a
tree or on a ladder unless specifically trained to do so.
WARNING:
Falling branches can cause serious injury.
Always wear appropriate head protection. Plan an escape
route away from falling limbs. Do not stand, or position any
body parts, directly below the branch being cut.
Pruning is the process of cutting limbs from a living tree.
1. Make the first cut approximately 6 inches (15 cm) from the tree
trunk. Cut upward, from the underside of the limb. Use the top
of the guide bar to make this cut. Cut a third of the way through
the diameter of the limb (Fig. 34).
2. Make the second cut 2 - 4 inches (5 - 10 cm) farther out on the
limb. Cut downward, from the top of the limb. Use the bottom of
the guide bar to make this cut. Cut completely through the limb
(Fig. 34).
3. Make the third cut as close to the tree trunk as possible. Cut
upward, from the underside of the limb stub. Use the top of the
guide bar to make this cut. Cut a third of the way through the
diameter of the limb (Fig. 34).
4. Make the fourth cut directly above the third cut. Cut downward,
from the top of the limb stub. Use the bottom of the guide bar to
make this cut. Cut completely through the limb stub to meet the
third cut (Fig. 34). This will remove the limb stub.
Underbucking
Fourth Cut
21
Fig. 32
Wedge
Fig. 33
Second Cut
First Cut
Third Cut
Fig. 34