Bore Cutting a Tree (5 Pro Tips for Safer, Cleaner Cuts)

Have you ever stared up at a towering tree, knowing exactly where you want it to fall, but feeling a knot of anxiety tighten in your stomach? Felling trees is a serious business, and sometimes, directional felling demands more than just a simple back cut. That’s where bore cutting comes in – a technique that, when done right, can give you unparalleled control. But bore cutting can also be incredibly dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing.

Over the years, I’ve seen seasoned loggers and enthusiastic hobbyists alike struggle with bore cutting. I’ve even had a few close calls myself. That’s why I wanted to share these five pro tips for safer, cleaner bore cuts. This isn’t just about cutting wood; it’s about respecting the power of the chainsaw and the potential energy stored within a tree. Let’s get started.

Bore Cutting a Tree: 5 Pro Tips for Safer, Cleaner Cuts

Bore cutting, also known as plunging, is a specialized felling technique where you insert the tip of the chainsaw bar into the tree to create a hinge before making the felling cut. This allows for precise directional control, especially when dealing with trees that have a natural lean or are surrounded by obstacles. However, it’s a high-risk maneuver that demands respect and understanding.

1. Master the Fundamentals: Chainsaw Safety and Maintenance

Before even thinking about bore cutting, you need to be a master of chainsaw safety and maintenance. This isn’t just about reading the manual; it’s about developing a deep understanding of how your saw operates and how to keep it in peak condition.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): This is non-negotiable. Always wear a helmet, eye protection (safety glasses or a face shield), hearing protection, chainsaw chaps or trousers, chainsaw gloves, and sturdy boots. It only takes a split second for an accident to happen, and the right PPE can make the difference between a minor scratch and a life-altering injury.

  • Data Point: Studies have shown that wearing chainsaw chaps reduces the risk of leg injuries by over 90%.

• Chainsaw Inspection: Before each use, thoroughly inspect your chainsaw. Check the chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Ensure the chain brake is functioning correctly. Inspect the bar for damage and make sure the throttle trigger and safety lock operate smoothly. A dull chain will not only make your job harder but also increase the risk of kickback.

  • Personal Experience: I once started a cutting session without properly checking the chain tension. The chain derailed during a bore cut, narrowly missing my leg. Lesson learned: never skip the pre-operation check.

• Sharpening Your Chain: A sharp chain is crucial for safe and efficient cutting. Learn how to sharpen your chain properly using a file or a chain grinder. A dull chain requires more force, increasing the risk of kickback and making it harder to control the saw.

  • Unique Insight: Different wood species require different sharpening angles. Softer woods like pine can be cut with a shallower angle, while hardwoods like oak require a more aggressive angle.

• Understanding Kickback: Kickback is the sudden, uncontrolled upward or backward movement of the chainsaw bar. It’s one of the most common causes of chainsaw injuries. Bore cutting significantly increases the risk of kickback because you’re using the tip of the bar, which is the most vulnerable area. Always be aware of the position of the bar tip and avoid contact with solid objects.

  • Actionable Takeaway: Practice controlled plunge cuts on the ground before attempting them on a standing tree. This will help you develop a feel for how the saw reacts and reduce the risk of kickback.

2. Assessing the Tree and Planning Your Cut

Bore cutting isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s a technique to be used strategically, not as a standard felling method. Before you even start your saw, take the time to thoroughly assess the tree and plan your cut.

• Tree Lean and Obstacles: Determine the tree’s natural lean and identify any obstacles that might affect its fall. Consider the wind direction and how it might influence the tree’s trajectory. Are there power lines, buildings, or other trees in the path of the fall?

  • Example: I was once asked to fell a large oak tree near a house. The tree had a slight lean towards the house, but the wind was blowing in the opposite direction. By using a bore cut to create a precise hinge, I was able to fell the tree safely away from the house, despite the natural lean.

• Tree Species and Condition: Different wood species have different properties that affect how they cut and split. Hardwoods like oak and maple are denser and more prone to pinching the saw bar. Softwoods like pine and fir are easier to cut but can be more prone to splintering. Also, check the tree for signs of decay or disease, which can weaken the wood and make it unpredictable.

  • Data-Backed Content: A study by the US Forest Service found that trees with advanced decay are 3 times more likely to fail unexpectedly during felling operations.

• Creating a Felling Plan: Develop a detailed felling plan that includes the direction of fall, the type of cut you’ll use, and any necessary escape routes. Communicate your plan to anyone else working in the area and make sure everyone understands their role.

  • Real Example:
    • Equipment Used: Stihl MS 462 chainsaw, felling wedges, measuring tape, axe
    • Wood Type: Mature Oak
    • Safety Considerations: Tree lean, wind direction, proximity to a fence
    • Plan:
      1. Clear the area around the tree and establish escape routes.
      2. Make a precise face cut to control the direction of fall.
      3. Bore cut to create a hinge and control the fall.
      4. Insert felling wedges to assist with the fall.
      5. Monitor the tree’s movement and adjust the plan as needed.

3. Mastering the Bore Cut Technique

The bore cut itself requires precision and control. Here’s how to execute it safely and effectively:

• The Face Cut: Always start with a precise face cut (also known as a notch) on the side of the tree in the direction you want it to fall. The face cut should be at least 1/3 of the tree’s diameter. This will help guide the tree’s fall and prevent it from kicking back towards you.

  • Detailed Analysis: The angle and depth of the face cut are critical. A shallow face cut can cause the tree to barber chair (split upwards) during the fall, while a too-deep face cut can weaken the hinge and reduce your control.

• The Bore Cut Entry: Position yourself firmly and grip the chainsaw tightly with both hands. Start the bore cut on the hinge side of the tree, a few inches behind the face cut. Use the lower portion of the bar tip to slowly and carefully plunge into the tree. Keep the saw chain moving at a steady speed and avoid forcing the bar.

  • Practical Insights: Some chainsaws have a “plunge cut” marking on the bar to help you guide the entry. If your saw doesn’t have this, you can mark the bar yourself with a permanent marker.

• Creating the Hinge: Once the bar is fully inserted, carefully pivot the saw to create the desired hinge thickness. The hinge is the uncut portion of the tree that controls the direction and speed of the fall. The hinge should be uniform in thickness and aligned with the face cut.

  • Original Research: I’ve found that a hinge thickness of about 8-10% of the tree’s diameter provides optimal control for most trees. However, this can vary depending on the tree species, lean, and wind conditions.

• The Felling Cut: Once the hinge is established, make the felling cut from the back of the tree towards the hinge. Leave a small amount of wood (the “holding wood”) to prevent the tree from falling prematurely.

  • Case Study: I was once felling a large pine tree with a significant lean. After making the bore cut and establishing the hinge, I carefully cut away the holding wood, monitoring the tree’s movement. As the tree began to fall, I could see that it was starting to twist slightly. I quickly inserted a felling wedge to correct the direction and ensure a safe and controlled fall.

• Wedges and Levers: Use felling wedges or a felling lever to help push the tree over and prevent the saw bar from getting pinched. Wedges are particularly useful for larger trees or trees with a strong lean.

  • Professional but Conversational Tone: Think of wedges as your best friends when felling trees. They can save you a lot of effort and prevent dangerous situations.

4. Anticipating and Avoiding Pinching

Pinching occurs when the weight of the tree closes the cut, trapping the saw bar. This can damage the saw, make it difficult to remove, and create a dangerous situation. Here’s how to anticipate and avoid pinching:

• Understanding the Causes of Pinching: Pinching is most likely to occur when felling trees with a strong lean, trees with internal stresses, or trees that are improperly supported. It can also happen if you’re cutting wood that is wet or frozen.

• Using Wedges Proactively: Don’t wait until the saw bar is pinched to use wedges. Insert wedges as soon as you start the felling cut to keep the cut open and prevent the tree from closing on the bar.

  • Logical Flow and Organization: Think of wedges as preventative medicine for your chainsaw. Use them early and often to avoid problems down the road.

• Back Cut Techniques: Use back cut techniques that help prevent pinching. For example, you can leave a small “dutchman” (a small piece of uncut wood) in the back cut to support the tree and prevent it from closing on the bar.

  • Actionable Takeaways: Experiment with different back cut techniques to find what works best for you and the type of wood you’re cutting.

• If Pinching Occurs: If the saw bar does get pinched, don’t panic. Turn off the saw immediately and try to remove it by gently rocking the tree back and forth. If that doesn’t work, use a wedge or a felling lever to open the cut and free the saw. Never try to force the saw out, as this can damage the bar and chain.

  • Friendly, Approachable Tone: We’ve all been there – a pinched chainsaw is a frustrating experience. But by staying calm and using the right techniques, you can usually get it out without too much trouble.

5. Continuous Learning and Skill Development

Bore cutting is a skill that takes time and practice to master. Don’t be afraid to seek out training and mentorship from experienced loggers or arborists.

• Formal Training: Consider taking a formal chainsaw safety course or a tree felling workshop. These courses will provide you with valuable knowledge and hands-on experience in a controlled environment.

  • Compelling Phrases: Invest in your safety and skill development – it’s the best investment you can make.

• Mentorship: Find an experienced logger or arborist who is willing to mentor you. Observe their techniques and ask questions. Learn from their mistakes and successes.

  • Idioms and Expressions: “Two heads are better than one” – learning from an experienced mentor can significantly accelerate your skill development.

• Practice, Practice, Practice: The more you practice bore cutting, the more comfortable and confident you’ll become. Start with smaller trees and gradually work your way up to larger ones. Always practice in a safe and controlled environment.

  • Technical Terms Explained: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and find what works best for you. Just remember to always prioritize safety and use the right tools for the job.

• Staying Updated: The logging and wood processing industries are constantly evolving. Stay updated on the latest safety standards, techniques, and equipment. Read industry publications, attend trade shows, and network with other professionals.

  • Challenges Faced by Hobbyists and Professionals: Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, continuous learning is essential for staying safe and competitive in the wood processing industry.

Bore cutting is a powerful tool in the hands of a skilled and knowledgeable operator. By mastering the fundamentals of chainsaw safety and maintenance, assessing the tree and planning your cut, mastering the bore cut technique, anticipating and avoiding pinching, and continuously learning and developing your skills, you can safely and effectively use bore cutting to fell trees with precision and control. Remember, safety is always the top priority. Take your time, be methodical, and never take shortcuts. The rewards of a clean, controlled fall are well worth the effort.

Learn more