Forestry Saw Tips (5 Pro Tricks For Faster Sapling Clearing)

Forestry Saw Tips (5 Pro Tricks for Faster Sapling Clearing)

I’ve spent a good chunk of my life in the woods, from my early days helping my grandfather on his small woodlot to years spent consulting on larger forestry operations. Let me tell you, there’s something deeply satisfying about turning raw timber into something useful, whether it’s a cozy stack of firewood or lumber for a new project. But I’ve also learned that working with wood, especially when it involves clearing saplings and smaller trees, can be back-breaking work if you don’t have the right techniques.

Sustainability is at the heart of everything I do in forestry. It’s not just about taking; it’s about managing the land responsibly for future generations. Efficient sapling clearing is a key part of that. It helps promote the growth of healthier trees, reduces the risk of wildfires, and creates a more biodiverse forest ecosystem. So, it’s not just about speed; it’s about doing it right.

In this article, I’m going to share five pro tricks I’ve learned over the years to help you clear saplings faster and more efficiently, all while keeping safety and sustainability in mind. These aren’t just theoretical concepts; they’re practical tips I’ve used myself in the field. I’ll also throw in some personal anecdotes and insights to make it more engaging and relatable.

2. Understanding the Challenge: Why Sapling Clearing is Crucial

Before we dive into the tricks, let’s talk about why sapling clearing is so important. In many forests, especially those that have been previously logged or disturbed, you often find a dense understory of saplings. These young trees compete with the larger, more valuable trees for sunlight, water, and nutrients. This competition can stunt the growth of the mature trees and reduce the overall health of the forest.

Think of it like a crowded garden: if you don’t thin out the seedlings, none of them will reach their full potential. The same principle applies to forests. By selectively removing saplings, you can create more space for the remaining trees to thrive.

Moreover, dense sapling thickets can be a fire hazard. Dry underbrush and tightly packed young trees are like kindling, making it easier for wildfires to spread rapidly. Clearing these areas can significantly reduce the risk of devastating forest fires.

Finally, sapling clearing can promote biodiversity. By opening up the forest canopy, you allow more sunlight to reach the forest floor, which encourages the growth of a wider variety of plants and shrubs. This, in turn, provides habitat and food for a greater diversity of wildlife.

Data Point: Studies have shown that selective thinning can increase the growth rate of remaining trees by up to 30%. This translates to faster timber production and a healthier, more resilient forest.

3. Pro Trick #1: Choosing the Right Chainsaw

The first and most crucial step is selecting the right chainsaw for the job. Using the wrong saw can make sapling clearing a grueling and inefficient task. It’s like trying to drive a nail with a wrench – you might eventually get the job done, but it’s going to be a lot harder than it needs to be.

For sapling clearing, you don’t need a massive, heavy-duty saw designed for felling giant trees. In fact, a smaller, lighter chainsaw is often the better choice. Here’s why:

Maneuverability: A lighter saw is much easier to maneuver in tight spaces, which is essential when working in dense sapling thickets. You’ll be able to move quickly and efficiently without getting bogged down.
Reduced Fatigue: Swinging a heavy chainsaw all day can be incredibly tiring. A lighter saw will reduce fatigue, allowing you to work longer and more safely.
Cost-Effective: Smaller chainsaws are generally less expensive than larger models, making them a more budget-friendly option for sapling clearing.

What to Look For in a Sapling Clearing Chainsaw:

Engine Size: Aim for a chainsaw with an engine size between 30cc and 40cc. This provides a good balance of power and maneuverability.
Bar Length: A bar length of 12 to 16 inches is typically sufficient for most sapling clearing tasks.
Weight: Look for a saw that weighs less than 10 pounds (without fuel and bar oil).
Ergonomics: Choose a saw with a comfortable handle and good balance. This will make it easier to control and reduce strain on your body.

My Personal Experience:

I remember one time, I tried to clear a patch of saplings using an old, heavy chainsaw that I usually used for felling larger trees. It was a complete disaster! The saw was so cumbersome that I kept getting tangled in the underbrush, and I was exhausted after only a few hours. I quickly realized that I needed a smaller, lighter saw for the job.

Example:

Stihl MS 170: A popular choice for homeowners and light-duty tasks, the Stihl MS 170 is lightweight, easy to start, and has a decent amount of power for clearing saplings.
Husqvarna 435: A versatile saw that can handle a variety of tasks, including sapling clearing. It’s a bit more powerful than the Stihl MS 170 but still relatively lightweight.

4. Pro Trick #2: Mastering the Bore Cut

The bore cut is a technique that can save you a lot of time and effort when clearing saplings, especially those that are leaning or under tension. It’s a more advanced technique, so practice in a safe environment before using it extensively.

What is a Bore Cut?

A bore cut involves plunging the tip of the chainsaw bar directly into the tree trunk to create a notch or pocket. This allows you to control the direction of the fall and prevent the tree from pinching the saw bar.

Why Use a Bore Cut for Saplings?

Reduced Pinching: Saplings, especially those that are leaning or under tension, are prone to pinching the saw bar as you cut through them. A bore cut helps to relieve this tension and prevent the bar from getting stuck.
Controlled Felling: By creating a notch with the bore cut, you can control the direction of the fall, which is important when working in tight spaces or near other trees.
Increased Efficiency: In certain situations, a bore cut can be faster and more efficient than a traditional felling cut.

How to Perform a Bore Cut:

Safety First: Make sure you’re wearing appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, and gloves.
Stance: Position yourself on the uphill side of the tree, if possible. This will give you better control and prevent the tree from falling on you.
Initial Cut: Make a small notch on the side of the tree facing the direction you want it to fall.
Plunge Cut: With the saw running at full throttle, carefully plunge the tip of the bar into the tree at a slight angle. Be sure to keep the saw moving and avoid forcing it.
Create the Notch: Once the bar is fully embedded, pivot the saw to create a notch that is about one-third of the tree’s diameter.
Felling Cut: Finish the cut by sawing through the remaining wood from the opposite side of the tree.

Important Safety Considerations:

Kickback: The bore cut can increase the risk of kickback, so it’s essential to use a chainsaw with a chain brake and to be aware of the position of the bar tip.
Practice: Practice the bore cut on small, non-essential trees before using it on larger or more valuable trees.
Avoid Obstacles: Make sure there are no obstacles in the path of the falling tree.

Real-World Example:

I was once clearing a patch of saplings that were growing along a steep hillside. Many of the saplings were leaning downhill, which made it difficult to fell them safely using a traditional cutting technique. By using the bore cut, I was able to control the direction of the fall and prevent the trees from rolling down the hill.

Equipment Used: Stihl MS 261 chainsaw, safety helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves.
Wood Types: Mixed hardwoods, including maple, oak, and birch.
Safety Considerations: Steep terrain, leaning trees, potential for rolling debris.

5. Pro Trick #3: The Importance of Chain Maintenance

A sharp chain is essential for efficient and safe sapling clearing. A dull chain will not only slow you down but also increase the risk of kickback and other accidents. I can’t stress this enough: a sharp chain is a safe chain.

Why is Chain Maintenance Important?

Increased Efficiency: A sharp chain cuts through wood much faster and easier than a dull chain. This will save you time and energy.
Reduced Fatigue: When your chain is sharp, you don’t have to force the saw through the wood. This reduces fatigue and allows you to work longer without getting tired.
Improved Safety: A sharp chain is less likely to kickback or bind in the wood. This reduces the risk of accidents.
Better Cuts: A sharp chain produces cleaner, more precise cuts. This is important if you’re planning to use the wood for lumber or other projects.

How to Maintain Your Chainsaw Chain:

Sharpening: Sharpen your chain regularly using a chainsaw file or a chain grinder. The frequency of sharpening will depend on the type of wood you’re cutting and how often you use the saw. I usually sharpen my chain after every few hours of use, or whenever I notice that it’s starting to cut slower.
Cleaning: Clean your chain regularly to remove dirt, sawdust, and other debris. This will help to keep it sharp and prevent it from rusting.
Lubrication: Keep your chain properly lubricated with bar oil. This will reduce friction and wear, and help to keep the chain cool.
Tensioning: Check the chain tension regularly and adjust it as needed. A loose chain can derail and cause serious injury.
Replacement: Replace your chain when it becomes worn or damaged. Don’t try to use a chain that is cracked, broken, or excessively dull.

My Personal Tip:

I always carry a small chainsaw file with me when I’m working in the woods. This allows me to quickly sharpen my chain on the spot whenever it starts to feel dull. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference in your efficiency and safety.

Data Point: Studies have shown that a properly sharpened chainsaw can cut through wood up to 50% faster than a dull chainsaw.

6. Pro Trick #4: Strategic Cutting Patterns

The way you approach clearing an area of saplings can have a significant impact on your speed and efficiency. Randomly hacking away at trees is a recipe for chaos and wasted energy. Instead, adopt a strategic cutting pattern that maximizes your movements and minimizes unnecessary steps.

Common Cutting Patterns:

Strip Cutting: This involves clearing saplings in parallel strips, working your way across the area. This is a good option for clearing large, open areas.
Grid Cutting: This involves dividing the area into a grid and clearing saplings within each grid square. This is a good option for clearing areas with uneven terrain or obstacles.
Selective Cutting: This involves selectively removing saplings based on their size, species, or location. This is a good option for promoting the growth of desirable trees and maintaining biodiversity.

Tips for Strategic Cutting:

Plan Your Route: Before you start cutting, take a few minutes to plan your route. Identify the areas that need to be cleared and decide on the most efficient way to move through the area.
Work in a Consistent Direction: Whether you’re using strip cutting or grid cutting, try to work in a consistent direction. This will help you to avoid getting disoriented and wasting time backtracking.
Clear Obstacles: Before you start cutting, clear any obstacles that might get in your way, such as fallen branches or large rocks.
Use Gravity to Your Advantage: When possible, fell saplings in a direction that will help them to fall away from you. This will make it easier to clear the area.
Group Similar Tasks: If you’re clearing a large area, try to group similar tasks together. For example, you might spend one day felling all the saplings and another day clearing the debris.

Case Study:

I once worked on a project where we needed to clear a large area of saplings to create a firebreak around a newly planted forest. We initially started out by randomly cutting down trees, but we quickly realized that this was not an efficient approach. We then switched to strip cutting, which allowed us to clear the area much faster and more efficiently.

Equipment Used: Husqvarna 562 XP chainsaw, safety helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves.
Wood Types: Pine and fir saplings.
Safety Considerations: Fire hazard, potential for falling trees.

7. Pro Trick #5: Leverage the Right Tools (Beyond the Chainsaw)

While the chainsaw is your primary weapon in the fight against saplings, it’s not the only tool you’ll need. Having the right supporting tools can significantly speed up the clearing process and make your job easier and safer.

Essential Supporting Tools:

Brush Axe: A brush axe is a long-handled tool with a sharp blade that is used for chopping through small trees and brush. It’s a great option for clearing saplings that are too small for a chainsaw but too large for a machete.
Machete: A machete is a long, broad knife that is used for cutting through vegetation. It’s a great option for clearing vines, briars, and other tangled undergrowth.
Loppers: Loppers are long-handled pruning shears that are used for cutting branches and small trees. They’re a great option for clearing saplings that are close to the ground.
Cant Hook/Peavey: While primarily used for larger logs, a smaller cant hook or peavey can be helpful for moving and stacking piles of cleared saplings.
Wedges: Wedges can be used to help fell saplings that are leaning in the wrong direction or that are at risk of pinching the saw bar.
First Aid Kit: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for treating minor injuries, such as cuts, scrapes, and splinters.
Fuel and Oil: Make sure you have enough fuel and bar oil to complete the job. It’s always a good idea to bring extra, just in case.

Tool Selection Based on Wood Species:

The type of wood you’re dealing with can influence your tool choices. For example, clearing dense hardwoods like oak or maple may require a more powerful chainsaw and a heavier brush axe. Softwoods like pine or fir can often be cleared with lighter tools.

My Go-To Setup:

For most sapling clearing jobs, I typically carry a chainsaw (Stihl MS 261), a brush axe, a machete, loppers, a small first aid kit, and plenty of fuel and bar oil. This combination of tools allows me to handle a wide range of clearing tasks efficiently and safely.

8. Safety First, Always

I can’t emphasize enough how important safety is when working with chainsaws and other forestry tools. Sapling clearing can be a dangerous activity, and it’s essential to take precautions to protect yourself from injury.

Essential Safety Gear:

Helmet: A safety helmet is essential for protecting your head from falling branches and other debris.
Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses or a face shield to protect your eyes from flying debris.
Hearing Protection: Wear earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing from the loud noise of the chainsaw.
Gloves: Wear heavy-duty gloves to protect your hands from cuts, scrapes, and splinters.
Chaps: Wear chainsaw chaps to protect your legs from accidental cuts.
Boots: Wear sturdy, steel-toed boots to protect your feet from falling objects and sharp debris.

Safety Best Practices:

Read the Manual: Before using any forestry tool, read the manufacturer’s manual carefully.
Inspect Your Equipment: Before each use, inspect your chainsaw and other tools for damage.
Clear the Area: Before you start cutting, clear the area of any obstacles that might get in your way.
Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep a safe distance from other workers and bystanders.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of potential hazards, such as falling trees, uneven terrain, and wildlife.
Take Breaks: Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.
Never Work Alone: Always work with a partner or let someone know where you’ll be working and when you expect to be back.
Know Your Limits: Don’t attempt to tackle tasks that are beyond your skill level or physical capabilities.

Emergency Preparedness:

First Aid Training: Take a first aid course to learn how to treat common injuries.
Emergency Contact Information: Keep a list of emergency contact information with you at all times.
Communication: Carry a cell phone or other communication device so you can call for help if needed.

9. Thinking Long Term: Sustainable Forestry Practices

As I mentioned at the beginning, sustainability is a core principle in forestry. When clearing saplings, it’s important to think about the long-term health and productivity of the forest.

Sustainable Sapling Clearing Practices:

Selective Thinning: Instead of clear-cutting an area, selectively remove saplings that are competing with more valuable trees.
Promote Biodiversity: Encourage the growth of a variety of tree species to create a more resilient and diverse forest ecosystem.
Protect Water Resources: Avoid clearing saplings near streams or other water sources, as this can lead to erosion and water pollution.
Leave Snags and Dead Trees: Leave some standing snags (dead trees) to provide habitat for wildlife.
Reforestation: If you’re clearing a large area, consider replanting trees to ensure the long-term health of the forest.

Wood Utilization:

Don’t let the cleared saplings go to waste. Here are some ways to utilize the wood:

Firewood: Saplings can be a great source of firewood.
Mulch: Chip the saplings and use them as mulch in your garden.
Compost: Compost the saplings along with other organic materials.
Small Wood Projects: Use the wood to build small projects, such as birdhouses or garden planters.

10. Conclusion: Putting It All Together

Clearing saplings efficiently and sustainably is a skill that takes time and practice to develop. By choosing the right chainsaw, mastering the bore cut, maintaining your chain, adopting strategic cutting patterns, and leveraging the right tools, you can significantly speed up the process and make your job easier and safer.

Remember, safety should always be your top priority. Wear appropriate safety gear, follow safety best practices, and be aware of your surroundings. And always think about the long-term health and productivity of the forest.

I hope these tips have been helpful. Now get out there and start clearing those saplings! And remember, the best way to learn is by doing. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. Happy logging!