Chainsaw Felling Dogs Benefits (Pro Tips for Safer Tree Cuts)

Have you ever felt like you’re wrestling a chainsaw, especially when felling a tree? The saw kicks back, binds in the cut, and generally makes the whole process feel more dangerous and less efficient. I’ve been there. For years, I struggled with the same issues, convinced it was just part of the job. Then, I truly understood the power of felling dogs – also known as bumper spikes or bucking spikes. They’re not just decorative; they are essential for control, safety, and precision. This guide is your deep dive into understanding and mastering the use of felling dogs, transforming you from a chainsaw wrestler into a confident and efficient operator.

Chainsaw Felling Dogs: Your Key to Safer and More Efficient Tree Cuts

Felling dogs are the metal spikes or bars located near the base of the chainsaw bar. They act as a pivot point, allowing you to leverage the saw against the tree during felling and bucking (cutting a felled tree into manageable logs). Think of them as a fulcrum on a lever – they multiply your force and give you far more control. I’ve personally witnessed a significant reduction in kickback risk and an increase in cutting speed simply by mastering their use.

What are Felling Dogs? Understanding the Basics

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s solidify the “what.” Felling dogs come in various sizes and designs. Some saws have fixed dogs, while others offer adjustable or replaceable ones. The size and design often depend on the size and power of the chainsaw.

• Fixed Dogs: These are permanently attached to the saw body. They are typically found on smaller to mid-sized chainsaws.

• Adjustable Dogs: These allow you to extend the dog further out, providing more leverage when working with larger trees. This is a game-changer when dealing with trees over 12 inches in diameter.

• Replaceable Dogs: These can be swapped out if they become damaged or if you prefer a different size or design.

• Single vs. Double Dogs: Some saws feature a single dog on one side of the bar, while others have double dogs on both sides. Double dogs generally offer more stability and control.

The material is usually hardened steel to withstand the constant pressure and friction. I’ve seen some aftermarket options made from titanium or other lightweight alloys, but I’ve always stuck with high-quality steel for durability.

Why Use Felling Dogs? The Benefits Unveiled

The benefits of using felling dogs are numerous and go beyond just making the job easier. Here’s a breakdown:

• Increased Control: Felling dogs provide a stable pivot point, allowing you to control the saw’s movement more precisely. This is especially crucial when making critical cuts like the hinge cut during felling.

• Reduced Kickback Risk: By keeping the saw body firmly planted against the tree, you reduce the likelihood of the saw kicking back, a major cause of chainsaw injuries. Kickback occurs when the tip of the bar encounters an object and the saw suddenly throws back towards the operator.

• Improved Cutting Efficiency: Using felling dogs allows you to apply more consistent pressure, leading to faster and cleaner cuts. I’ve personally shaved off significant time on large bucking projects simply by using the dogs effectively.

• Reduced Fatigue: By leveraging the saw against the tree, you reduce the amount of physical effort required to make cuts. This is particularly important when working on large projects or for extended periods.

• Enhanced Safety: All the above benefits contribute to a safer working environment. Reduced kickback, increased control, and reduced fatigue all minimize the risk of accidents.

Key Terminology: Understanding the Language of Chainsaw Operation

To effectively use felling dogs, it’s essential to understand some key terminology:

• Felling: The process of cutting down a standing tree.

• Bucking: The process of cutting a felled tree into logs.

• Hinge Cut: A critical cut made during felling that controls the direction of the tree’s fall.

• Back Cut: The final cut made during felling, opposite the hinge cut.

• Kickback: The sudden and dangerous backward movement of the chainsaw.

• Bar Oil: Lubricant used to keep the chainsaw bar and chain cool and properly lubricated.

• Green Wood: Freshly cut wood with a high moisture content.

• Seasoned Wood: Wood that has been allowed to dry, reducing its moisture content. Seasoned wood is easier to split and burns more efficiently. I aim for a moisture content of around 20% for firewood.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Felling Dogs: The Pro Techniques

Now, let’s get into the practical application. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to using felling dogs effectively:

1. Preparation is Key: Safety First

Before you even start the saw, make sure you have the following:

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): This includes a helmet, eye protection (safety glasses or a face shield), hearing protection (earplugs or earmuffs), chainsaw chaps, gloves, and sturdy boots. Never compromise on PPE. I’ve seen too many preventable injuries due to a lack of proper gear.

• Chainsaw Maintenance: Ensure your chainsaw is in good working order. Check the chain sharpness, bar oil level, and air filter. A dull chain is a dangerous chain.

• Clear Work Area: Clear away any obstacles from the area around the tree you’re felling or the log you’re bucking. This includes brush, rocks, and other debris.

• Escape Route: Plan your escape route in case the tree falls unexpectedly. This should be a clear path at a 45-degree angle away from the direction of the fall.

2. Felling Techniques: Using Dogs for Precision

Felling a tree is a complex process, and using felling dogs correctly is crucial for safety and control.

• Assess the Tree: Before making any cuts, assess the tree for lean, wind direction, and any signs of weakness or decay. This will help you determine the best direction to fell the tree.

• Make the Notch Cut: The notch cut (also called the face cut) is a wedge-shaped cut that helps guide the tree’s fall. It typically consists of two cuts: a horizontal cut and a sloping cut that meet at an angle of about 45 degrees.

  • Engage the Dogs: Position the felling dogs against the tree trunk, slightly above where you want to start the horizontal cut.

  • Pivot and Cut: Use the dogs as a pivot point to guide the saw as you make the horizontal cut. Keep the saw body firmly planted against the tree.

  • Repeat for Sloping Cut: Reposition the dogs and repeat the process for the sloping cut.

• Make the Hinge Cut: The hinge cut is a horizontal cut that leaves a strip of wood (the hinge) that controls the direction of the fall.

  • Engage the Dogs: Position the felling dogs against the tree trunk, slightly above the horizontal cut of the notch.

  • Pivot and Cut: Use the dogs as a pivot point to guide the saw as you make the hinge cut. Be careful not to cut all the way through the tree. Leave a hinge that is about 10% of the tree’s diameter.

  • Maintain Hinge Thickness: It’s crucial to maintain a consistent hinge thickness. The felling dogs help you control the saw’s depth and prevent you from cutting too far.

• Make the Back Cut: The back cut is the final cut that releases the tree.

  • Engage the Dogs: Position the felling dogs against the tree trunk, slightly above and behind the hinge cut.

  • Pivot and Cut: Use the dogs as a pivot point to guide the saw as you make the back cut. Leave a small amount of wood (the holding wood) between the back cut and the hinge cut.

  • Wedge Insertion (If Necessary): If the tree is leaning in the wrong direction or if you’re concerned about it falling back on the saw, insert a felling wedge into the back cut before completing the cut. Use a sledgehammer to drive the wedge in and help push the tree over. I always carry a couple of wedges of different sizes for this purpose.

  • Complete the Cut: Once the wedge is in place, complete the back cut and allow the tree to fall.

3. Bucking Techniques: Using Dogs for Efficient Log Cutting

Bucking is the process of cutting a felled tree into logs. Felling dogs are equally valuable in this process.

• Position the Log: Position the log so that it is stable and supported. This will prevent it from rolling or shifting during the cut.

• Overbucking: Overbucking is cutting the log from the top down.

  • Engage the Dogs: Position the felling dogs against the log, near the top edge.

  • Pivot and Cut: Use the dogs as a pivot point to guide the saw as you cut through the log. The weight of the saw will help you make a clean, straight cut.

  • Avoid Pinching: Be careful to avoid pinching the bar. If the log starts to pinch, stop cutting and insert a wedge to keep the cut open.

• Underbucking: Underbucking is cutting the log from the bottom up.

  • Engage the Dogs: Position the felling dogs against the log, near the bottom edge.

  • Pivot and Cut: Use the dogs as a pivot point to guide the saw as you cut through the log. Be extra careful to avoid kickback when underbucking.

  • Support the Log: When underbucking, it’s crucial to support the log to prevent it from splitting or pinching the bar.

• “Walk Through” Bucking: This technique is used for larger logs and involves using the felling dogs to “walk” the saw through the log.

  • Engage the Dogs: Position the felling dogs against the log, near the edge of the cut.

  • Pivot and Cut: Use the dogs as a pivot point to guide the saw as you cut a short distance into the log.

  • Reposition and Repeat: Reposition the dogs further along the cut and repeat the process. Continue “walking” the saw through the log until you have completed the cut.

4. Chainsaw Maintenance: Keeping Your Tool in Top Shape

Regular chainsaw maintenance is essential for safety and efficiency.

• Chain Sharpening: A sharp chain is crucial for safe and efficient cutting. Sharpen the chain regularly using a chainsaw file or a chain grinder. I prefer using a chainsaw file in the field, as it’s more portable.

• Bar Maintenance: Clean the bar regularly and check for wear and damage. Replace the bar if it becomes worn or damaged.

• Air Filter Cleaning: Clean the air filter regularly to ensure proper engine performance. A clogged air filter can reduce power and increase fuel consumption.

• Spark Plug Inspection: Inspect the spark plug regularly and replace it if necessary.

• Lubrication: Keep the chain and bar properly lubricated with bar oil. Check the oil level frequently and refill as needed.

• Chain Tension: Ensure the chain tension is correct. A loose chain can come off the bar and cause injury.

5. Wood Selection: Understanding Different Wood Types

The type of wood you’re cutting can affect the cutting process and the performance of your chainsaw.

• Hardwoods: Hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory are denser and more difficult to cut than softwoods. They require a sharper chain and more power. Hardwoods are excellent for firewood due to their high heat output.

• Softwoods: Softwoods like pine, fir, and spruce are less dense and easier to cut than hardwoods. They are often used for construction lumber. Softwoods tend to burn faster than hardwoods.

• Green Wood: Green wood is freshly cut wood with a high moisture content. It is more difficult to cut than seasoned wood.

• Seasoned Wood: Seasoned wood has been allowed to dry, reducing its moisture content. It is easier to cut and burns more efficiently. I prefer to season my firewood for at least six months before burning it.

6. Understanding Moisture Content: Achieving Optimal Burning

Moisture content plays a critical role in how well wood burns. High moisture content leads to smoky fires, reduced heat output, and increased creosote buildup in your chimney.

• Ideal Moisture Content: The ideal moisture content for firewood is around 20%.

• Measuring Moisture Content: You can measure the moisture content of wood using a moisture meter. These are readily available online or at hardware stores.

• Drying Methods: There are several methods for drying wood, including air drying and kiln drying.

  • Air Drying: Air drying is the most common method for drying firewood. It involves stacking the wood in a well-ventilated area and allowing it to dry naturally. This process can take several months or even a year, depending on the climate and the type of wood. I typically stack my firewood in rows, with gaps between the rows to allow for air circulation.

  • Kiln Drying: Kiln drying is a faster method for drying wood. It involves placing the wood in a kiln and heating it to a specific temperature to remove moisture. Kiln-dried wood typically has a lower moisture content than air-dried wood.

7. Case Studies: Real-World Examples

Let’s look at a couple of real-world examples of how using felling dogs can make a difference:

• Case Study 1: Felling a Leaning Oak Tree: I once had to fell a large oak tree that was leaning precariously towards a house. The tree was about 30 inches in diameter, and the lean made it difficult to control. By using the felling dogs to precisely control the saw during the notch cut and hinge cut, I was able to fell the tree safely and accurately, avoiding any damage to the house. Without the dogs, I would have struggled to maintain control and the risk of the tree falling in the wrong direction would have been significantly higher.

• Case Study 2: Bucking a Large Pine Log: I was bucking a large pine log into firewood. The log was about 20 feet long and 24 inches in diameter. By using the felling dogs to “walk” the saw through the log, I was able to make clean, straight cuts with minimal effort. This technique significantly reduced the amount of time and energy required to buck the log.

8. Strategic Insights: Beyond the Basics

Using felling dogs effectively is not just about technique; it’s also about strategy.

• Choosing the Right Chainsaw: Select a chainsaw that is appropriate for the size of the trees you will be felling. A larger chainsaw will have more power and larger felling dogs, making it easier to control. I typically use a 20-inch bar for most felling and bucking tasks.

• Adjusting Dog Size: If your chainsaw has adjustable felling dogs, adjust the size of the dogs to match the size of the tree you are cutting. Larger dogs provide more leverage and control.

• Using Wedges Effectively: Don’t be afraid to use felling wedges to help control the direction of the fall or to prevent the bar from pinching. Wedges are an essential tool for safe and efficient felling.

• Maintaining a Sharp Chain: A sharp chain is essential for safe and efficient cutting. Sharpen your chain regularly and replace it when it becomes worn.

9. Safety Standards Worldwide: Staying Compliant

It’s important to be aware of safety standards related to logging and firewood production in your region. These standards vary from country to country and even from state to state.

• OSHA (United States): The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets safety standards for logging operations in the United States. These standards cover a wide range of topics, including PPE, chainsaw operation, and felling techniques.

• HSE (United Kingdom): The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) sets safety standards for forestry operations in the United Kingdom. These standards are similar to OSHA standards in the United States.

• CSA (Canada): The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) sets safety standards for logging operations in Canada. These standards are also similar to OSHA standards in the United States.

• European Standards: The European Union has a number of directives related to forestry safety. These directives are implemented by individual member states.

Always check with your local authorities to ensure that you are complying with all applicable safety standards.

10.

• Limited Resources: DIYers and small-scale businesses often have limited resources, including equipment, manpower, and funding.

• Lack of Training: Many DIYers and small-scale business owners lack formal training in logging and wood processing techniques.

• Safety Concerns: Logging and wood processing can be dangerous activities, and DIYers and small-scale business owners may not have the knowledge or experience to safely perform these tasks.

• Environmental Regulations: Logging and wood processing are subject to environmental regulations, and DIYers and small-scale business owners may not be aware of these regulations.

By understanding these challenges, DIYers and small-scale logging businesses can take steps to mitigate the risks and improve their efficiency.

1. Practice: Start by practicing using felling dogs on small logs. Get comfortable with the technique before moving on to larger trees.

2. Invest in Quality Equipment: Invest in a high-quality chainsaw with well-designed felling dogs. This will make the job easier and safer.

3. Take a Chainsaw Safety Course: Consider taking a chainsaw safety course to learn proper techniques and safety procedures.

4. Join a Local Logging Association: Join a local logging association to network with other professionals and learn from their experience.

5. Stay Informed: Stay informed about the latest safety standards and best practices in logging and wood processing.

By following these steps, you can become a confident and efficient chainsaw operator and enjoy the many benefits of using felling dogs.

In conclusion, felling dogs are an indispensable tool for anyone working with chainsaws, whether felling trees or bucking logs. They provide increased control, reduce kickback risk, improve cutting efficiency, reduce fatigue, and enhance overall safety. By mastering the techniques outlined in this guide, you can transform your chainsaw operation and work with greater confidence and efficiency. Remember, safety is always paramount. Always wear appropriate PPE, maintain your chainsaw properly, and follow safe cutting practices. Happy cutting!

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