Felling
Felling is the process of cutting down a tree, such as done in logging and land clearing, while guiding the direction and fall of the tree.
Process
- An Under Cut is made facing the desired direction of the tree to fall. This cut should be made between 30% and 50% of the tree's thickness. The more the tree is leaning the opposite direction.
- A Back Cut is made to release the tension holding the tree up right after the Under Cut is made. Once this cut is made the tree will fall. This cut can be up to 50% of the tree's thickness and is typically done until the tension release can be audibly heard and fall movement is observed. Initial movement may be slow, building speed as the angle between the ground decreases.
Tools
- A saw can be used for the back cut. Typically a variety of two person saw, chainsaw, or logging specific saw is used for this cut.
- A saw or axe can be used for the Under Cut. Any saw which can be used for the back cut can be used for the Under Cut, additionally axes such as felling axes are a choice for this cut.
- A wedge and sledge hammer may be used in circumstances where the tree is tilted reverse of the desired fall direction. These wedges are hammered into the Back Cut to ensure proper leverage and fall.
