Boring Cut Techniques (5 Pro Tips For Safer Felling)

What if you’re facing a massive oak, leaning precariously, and the usual felling techniques just won’t cut it – literally? What if a standard back cut risks pinching your bar, or worse, sending the tree in an unpredictable direction? That’s where the boring cut comes in, a technique often whispered about in logging circles but rarely explained in detail. It’s a skill every serious chainsaw user needs, not just for safety but for controlling those tricky situations where conventional methods fail. I’ve been using this technique for years, and I’ve seen firsthand how it can turn a potential disaster into a controlled, successful fell. In this article, I will share 5 pro tips about boring cut techniques for safer felling.

Understanding the “Boring Cut”

The boring cut, also known as a plunge cut or bore cut, is a technique where you insert the tip of the chainsaw bar directly into the tree, creating a cavity within the trunk before making your felling cuts. It’s a game-changer when dealing with trees that have significant lean, are heavily branched on one side, or are simply too large for a standard felling operation.

Why Master the Boring Cut?

Enhanced Control: Directing the fall becomes more predictable.
Reduced Pinching: Minimizes the risk of your saw bar getting pinched, a common and dangerous occurrence.
Safer Felling: Allows you to manage challenging trees more effectively.

Wood Anatomy and Properties: The Foundation of Safe Cutting

Before diving into the specifics of the boring cut, let’s quickly recap some essential wood science. Understanding wood anatomy is crucial for anticipating how a tree will behave during felling.

Hardwood vs. Softwood: Knowing the Difference

Hardwoods, like oak and maple, are generally denser than softwoods like pine and fir. This density affects cutting speed, chainsaw chain selection, and the overall force required during felling.

Hardwoods: Typically slower to cut, requiring sharp chains and a steady hand. They also tend to split more unpredictably.
Softwoods: Cut faster but can be more prone to splintering if not handled carefully.

Moisture Content: A Critical Factor

The moisture content of wood significantly impacts its weight, strength, and how it responds to cutting forces. Green wood (freshly cut) is much heavier and more flexible than seasoned wood (dried).

Green Wood: Higher moisture content makes it heavier and more prone to pinching the saw bar.
Seasoned Wood: Lighter and less likely to pinch, but can be more brittle and prone to cracking.

According to research from the Forest Products Laboratory, the moisture content of green wood can range from 30% to over 200% (dry basis), depending on the species. Seasoning reduces this to around 12-15%, making it much easier to work with.

Logging Tool Selection and Maintenance Best Practices

Choosing the right chainsaw and maintaining it properly are non-negotiable for safe and efficient felling, especially when using advanced techniques like the boring cut.

Chainsaw Selection: Size Matters

For most felling operations, a chainsaw with a bar length of 18-20 inches is sufficient. However, for larger trees, you might need a longer bar. Consider the power of the saw as well; a more powerful saw will handle hardwoods more easily.

Small Trees (under 12 inches diameter): A 14-16 inch bar chainsaw is adequate.
Medium Trees (12-24 inches diameter): An 18-20 inch bar chainsaw is ideal.
Large Trees (over 24 inches diameter): A 20+ inch bar chainsaw is recommended.

I remember one time I tried felling a massive oak with an underpowered saw and a dull chain. It was a nightmare. The saw kept bogging down, the bar pinched constantly, and it took me twice as long as it should have. Lesson learned: always match your equipment to the task.

Chainsaw Maintenance: The Key to Safety and Efficiency

A sharp chain is paramount. A dull chain not only makes cutting more difficult but also increases the risk of kickback, a dangerous situation where the saw jumps back towards the operator.

Sharpening: Sharpen your chain regularly, ideally after every tank of gas. Use a chain sharpener or a round file and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Bar Maintenance: Keep the bar groove clean and free of debris. Check the bar for wear and replace it when necessary.
Chain Tension: Maintain proper chain tension to prevent the chain from derailing or binding.

A well-maintained chainsaw not only cuts better but also lasts longer. It’s an investment in your safety and efficiency.

The 5 Pro Tips for Safer Felling Using Boring Cut Techniques

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: the boring cut itself. Here are five pro tips to help you master this technique safely and effectively.

1. The Importance of a Proper Stance and Grip

Before you even start the saw, make sure you have a solid stance. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, with one foot slightly forward for balance. Grip the saw firmly with both hands, keeping your thumbs wrapped around the handles.

Stance: A stable stance prevents you from losing balance if the saw kicks back or the tree moves unexpectedly.
Grip: A firm grip gives you maximum control over the saw.

I’ve seen too many accidents happen because people were off-balance or had a weak grip. Don’t underestimate the importance of these basics.

2. Mastering the Entry Point

The entry point is crucial for a successful boring cut. You want to start the cut on the hinge side of the tree, slightly above where you plan to make your felling cut.

Angle: Start the cut at a slight angle, aiming the tip of the bar towards the center of the tree.
Control: Use the lower part of the bar to control the saw and prevent kickback.

As you push the bar into the tree, keep a close eye on the tip. If it starts to bind, ease off the pressure and try again. Patience is key.

3. The “Open Face” Technique

Once the bar is fully inserted, create an “open face” within the tree. This involves pivoting the saw to create a cavity that is wider than the bar.

Pivot: Use the saw’s power to pivot the bar, creating a wide, smooth cavity.
Clearance: Ensure there is enough clearance for the bar to move freely without pinching.

The open face allows you to make your felling cuts without the risk of the bar getting stuck. It also gives you a better view of what’s happening inside the tree.

4. The Hinge: Your Tree’s Steering Wheel

The hinge is the most critical part of the felling process. It’s the strip of wood that connects the stump to the tree as it falls, and it acts as a steering wheel, guiding the tree in the desired direction.

Width: The width of the hinge should be about 80% of the tree’s diameter.
Thickness: The thickness of the hinge should be about 10% of the tree’s diameter.
Uniformity: The hinge should be uniform in thickness and width to ensure a controlled fall.

I’ve learned the hard way that a poorly formed hinge can lead to disaster. One time, I made the hinge too thin, and the tree snapped off prematurely, landing in a completely unexpected direction. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but it was a close call.

5. The Felling Cut: Precision is Key

Once the hinge is established, make your felling cut from the opposite side of the tree. This cut should meet the back of the open face, leaving the hinge intact.

Slow and Steady: Make the felling cut slowly and steadily, keeping a close eye on the hinge.
Wedges: Use wedges to prevent the tree from settling back on the saw bar.
Listen: Listen for the telltale signs of the tree starting to fall, such as cracking or creaking.

As the tree starts to fall, move away from the stump at a 45-degree angle. This will protect you from kickback or falling debris.

Firewood Seasoning Techniques and Safety Considerations

Once the tree is felled, the next step is to process it into firewood. Proper seasoning is essential for maximizing the fuel value of the wood and minimizing smoke.

The Science of Seasoning

Seasoning involves reducing the moisture content of the wood to around 20% or less. This allows the wood to burn more efficiently and produce more heat.

Moisture Content: Freshly cut wood can have a moisture content of 50% or more.
Seasoned Wood: Seasoned wood has a moisture content of 20% or less.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, burning unseasoned wood can reduce its heating efficiency by as much as 50%.

Seasoning Methods

There are several methods for seasoning firewood, including:

Air Drying: The most common method, involving stacking the wood in a well-ventilated area and allowing it to dry naturally.
Kiln Drying: A faster method, involving heating the wood in a kiln to remove moisture.
Solar Drying: Using solar energy to heat the wood and accelerate the drying process.

I prefer air drying because it’s the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly method. However, it does require patience. It typically takes 6-12 months for wood to season properly, depending on the species and climate.

Safety Considerations

When handling firewood, always wear gloves and eye protection to protect yourself from splinters and debris. Also, be aware of the risk of insect bites and stings, especially if you’re working in wooded areas.

Project Planning and Execution: A Step-by-Step Guide

Before you start felling trees or processing firewood, it’s essential to have a plan. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan and execute your project safely and efficiently.

1. Assess the Situation

Before you start cutting, take the time to assess the situation. Look for hazards such as power lines, fences, or buildings. Also, consider the tree’s lean, size, and species.

2. Develop a Plan

Based on your assessment, develop a plan for felling the tree and processing the firewood. This plan should include:

Felling Direction: Determine the safest and most practical direction for the tree to fall.
Cutting Techniques: Choose the appropriate cutting techniques based on the tree’s characteristics.
Equipment: Select the right equipment for the job, including a chainsaw, wedges, and safety gear.
Seasoning Method: Decide on a method for seasoning the firewood.

3. Execute the Plan

Once you have a plan, execute it carefully and methodically. Follow these steps:

Clear the Area: Clear the area around the tree of any obstacles.
Make the Boring Cut: Use the boring cut technique to create an open face within the tree.
Establish the Hinge: Carefully establish the hinge, ensuring it is the correct width and thickness.
Make the Felling Cut: Make the felling cut from the opposite side of the tree, leaving the hinge intact.
Process the Firewood: Once the tree is felled, process it into firewood using a chainsaw or wood splitter.
Stack the Firewood: Stack the firewood in a well-ventilated area to allow it to season properly.

4. Monitor and Adjust

As you execute your plan, monitor the situation and make adjustments as needed. If something doesn’t feel right, stop and reassess the situation.

Here’s a comparison of some of the most common options:

Hardwood vs. Softwood: Which is Better for Firewood?

Hardwoods generally burn longer and produce more heat than softwoods. However, softwoods are easier to ignite and can be useful for starting fires.

Hardwoods: Oak, maple, ash, and birch are all excellent choices for firewood.
Softwoods: Pine, fir, and spruce can be used for firewood, but they don’t burn as long or produce as much heat as hardwoods.

Manual vs. Hydraulic Splitters: Which is Right for You?

Manual splitters are less expensive and require no fuel or electricity. However, they can be physically demanding to use. Hydraulic splitters are more expensive but make splitting wood much easier.

Manual Splitters: Suitable for small-scale firewood production.
Hydraulic Splitters: Ideal for large-scale firewood production.

I’ve used both manual and hydraulic splitters, and I can tell you that a hydraulic splitter is worth the investment if you’re processing a lot of firewood. It saves a lot of time and energy.

Real-World Examples and Case Studies

To illustrate the principles discussed in this article, let’s look at a couple of real-world examples.

Case Study 1: Felling a Leaning Oak

I once had to fell a large oak tree that was leaning heavily towards a neighbor’s house. The conventional felling techniques were too risky because the tree could have easily fallen in the wrong direction.

I used the boring cut technique to create an open face within the tree, carefully establishing a hinge that would guide the tree away from the house. The tree fell exactly where I wanted it to, avoiding any damage to the neighbor’s property.

Case Study 2: Processing Firewood from a Storm-Damaged Tree

After a severe storm, I had a large maple tree fall in my yard. I decided to process the tree into firewood to heat my home during the winter.

I used a chainsaw to cut the tree into manageable lengths, then used a hydraulic splitter to split the wood. I stacked the firewood in a well-ventilated area and allowed it to season for about a year. The seasoned firewood burned beautifully, keeping my home warm and cozy all winter long.

Practical Tips and Actionable Advice

Here are some practical tips and actionable advice you can apply immediately:

Practice Makes Perfect: Practice the boring cut technique on smaller trees before attempting it on larger ones.
Start Small: Start with small-scale firewood projects and gradually increase the size and complexity as you gain experience.
Take Breaks: Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue, which can lead to accidents.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially when working in hot weather.
Wear Appropriate Clothing: Wear sturdy boots, gloves, and eye protection to protect yourself from injury.
Use a Moisture Meter: Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of your firewood before burning it.
Store Firewood Properly: Store firewood off the ground and covered to protect it from rain and snow.
Follow Local Regulations: Follow all local regulations regarding tree felling and firewood processing.

Current Industry Statistics and Data Points

Here are some current industry statistics and data points to keep in mind:

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, wood accounted for about 2% of total U.S. energy consumption in 2020.
The global firewood market is expected to reach $10.3 billion by 2027, according to a report by Grand View Research.
The average price of firewood in the U.S. is about $250 per cord, according to data from the National Firewood Association.
The most popular type of firewood in the U.S.
- Limited Access to Equipment: Many small workshops and DIYers don’t have access to expensive equipment like hydraulic splitters or kilns.
- Lack of Training: Many people lack the training and experience necessary to safely and efficiently fell trees and process firewood.
- Safety Concerns: Wood processing can be dangerous, especially for those who are inexperienced or lack the proper safety equipment.
- Environmental Regulations: Many countries have strict environmental regulations regarding tree felling and firewood processing.
- Cost of Materials: The cost of materials like chainsaw chains, fuel, and lubricants can be a significant expense for small workshops and DIYers.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways and Next Steps

Mastering the boring cut technique can significantly enhance your safety and control when felling trees. Remember the five pro tips: proper stance and grip, mastering the entry point, the “open face” technique, the hinge as your tree’s steering wheel, and precision in the felling cut.

Here are some key takeaways:
- Safety First: Always prioritize safety when felling trees and processing firewood.
- Plan Ahead: Develop a plan before you start cutting, and stick to it.
- Use the Right Equipment: Select the right equipment for the job, and maintain it properly.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Practice the boring cut technique on smaller trees before attempting it on larger ones.
- Stay Informed: Stay up-to-date on the latest industry statistics and best practices.
As a next step, I recommend practicing the boring cut technique on smaller trees in a safe and controlled environment. Also, consider taking a chainsaw safety course to learn more about safe felling practices. With practice and patience, you can master the boring cut technique and become a more skilled and confident wood processor.