OPERATION
4.Make the backcut level and horizontal, and at a mini- mum of 2 inches (5 cm) above the horizontal cut of the notch.
Note: Never cut through to the notch. Always leave a band of wood between the notch and back cut (approxi- mately 2 inches (5 cm) or 1/10 the diameter of the tree). This is called "hinge" or "hingewood". It controls the fall of the tree and prevents slipping or twisting or shoot- back of the tree off the stump.
On large diameter trees, stop the back cut before it is deep enough for the tree to either fall or settle back on the stump. Then insert soft wooden or plastic wedges into the cut so they do not touch the chain. Drive wedges in, little by little, to help jack the tree over.
When bucking or felling with a wedge, it may be necessary to remove the
5.As tree starts to fall, stop the chain saw and put it down immediately. Retreat along the cleared path, but watch the action in case something falls your way.
WARNING:
Never cut through to the notch when making a back cut. The hinge controls the fall of the tree, this is the section of wood between the notch and backcut.
Page 18
HINGE
2" (5 CM) OR 1/10 DIA
NOTCH -
APPROX. 1/3
DIAMETER OF
TRUNK
BACK CUT
2" (5 CM)
Fig. 25
HINGE
BACK CUT
Fig. 26
WEDGE
Fig. 27