Small Tree Cutter Guide (5 Pro Tips For Efficient Felling)

Investing in the right knowledge and techniques for small tree cutting isn’t just about getting the job done; it’s about maximizing the resale value of your timber and firewood. A well-managed woodlot can be a surprisingly lucrative asset, and proper felling is the first crucial step. Think of it like prepping a house for sale – curb appeal matters, and in the world of wood, that means clean cuts, minimal damage, and efficient processing. This guide is born from years of hands-on experience, where I’ve learned the hard way what works and what doesn’t. I’ll share not only the “how” but also the “why,” giving you the tools to transform your small tree cutting operation into a profitable venture.

Small Tree Cutter Guide: 5 Pro Tips for Efficient Felling

This guide is designed for hobbyists, small-scale loggers, and firewood producers looking to optimize their small tree cutting operations. I’ll walk you through five essential pro tips, focusing on efficiency, safety, and maximizing the value of your harvested wood.

1. Precision Planning: Assessing the Tree and Surroundings

Before you even think about firing up your chainsaw, take a moment to assess the tree and its surroundings. This is where many beginners stumble, leading to wasted effort, damaged timber, and potentially dangerous situations.

Assessing the Tree

Species Identification: Knowing the species is critical. Different wood types have different properties, affecting everything from drying time to BTU output (for firewood) to optimal cutting techniques. For instance, hardwoods like oak and maple require more power to cut than softwoods like pine or fir.
Lean and Balance: Observe the tree’s natural lean. This will dictate the direction of the fall. Also, check for uneven weight distribution in the crown. A heavily weighted branch on one side can cause unexpected movement during felling.
Defects and Damage: Look for signs of rot, cracks, or insect infestation. These weaken the tree and can make it unpredictable during felling. Pay close attention to the base of the tree, where rot is often hidden.
Diameter at Breast Height (DBH): DBH is a standard measurement taken 4.5 feet (1.37 meters) above ground. This is important for estimating the tree’s volume and selecting the appropriate chainsaw and felling techniques. I’ve found that trees with a DBH of less than 12 inches (30 cm) are generally easier to handle and require less specialized equipment.

Assessing the Surroundings

Clearance: Ensure there’s adequate space for the tree to fall without hitting obstacles like power lines, buildings, or other trees. A general rule of thumb is that you need a clear area at least 1.5 times the tree’s height in the intended felling direction.
Escape Routes: Plan two escape routes at a 45-degree angle away from the intended felling direction. These should be clear of obstacles and provide a safe path to retreat if something goes wrong.
Ground Conditions: Check for slippery conditions, such as wet leaves or snow. These can make it difficult to maintain your footing and control the chainsaw. Also, be aware of uneven terrain, which can affect the tree’s fall.
Wind: Wind can significantly alter the tree’s fall. Avoid felling trees in high winds. Even a slight breeze can push the tree off course. I once had a seemingly straightforward felling operation turn into a near-disaster when a sudden gust of wind caught the tree and nearly sent it crashing into a power line.

Data-Backed Insights

Wood Density: Hardwoods generally have a density of 40 lbs/cubic foot or higher, while softwoods are typically below 30 lbs/cubic foot. This affects cutting speed and chain sharpness.
Moisture Content: Freshly cut wood can have a moisture content of 50% or higher. For firewood, you want to get this down to 20% or less for optimal burning.
Wind Speed: Forestry regulations often recommend halting felling operations when wind speeds exceed 20 mph (32 km/h).

2. Chainsaw Mastery: Choosing and Maintaining Your Tool

Your chainsaw is your primary tool, and its performance directly impacts your efficiency and safety. Choosing the right chainsaw and maintaining it properly is crucial.

Chainsaw Selection

Engine Size: For small tree cutting (trees under 12 inches DBH), a chainsaw with an engine size of 40-50cc is generally sufficient. Larger trees require more power.
Bar Length: Choose a bar length that is slightly longer than the diameter of the trees you’ll be cutting. A 16-18 inch bar is a good all-around choice for small tree cutting.
Weight: Consider the weight of the chainsaw. A lighter chainsaw will be easier to handle for extended periods, reducing fatigue.
Features: Look for features like anti-vibration systems, chain brakes, and easy-start mechanisms. These can significantly improve your comfort and safety.

Chainsaw Maintenance

Chain Sharpening: A sharp chain is essential for efficient cutting and reducing kickback. Sharpen your chain regularly, ideally after every few tanks of fuel. I use a file guide to ensure consistent sharpening angles.
Chain Tension: Check chain tension before each use. The chain should be snug against the bar but still able to be pulled around by hand.
Bar Maintenance: Clean the bar groove regularly to remove sawdust and debris. Also, check the bar for wear and replace it when necessary.
Air Filter: Clean the air filter regularly to ensure proper engine performance. A clogged air filter can reduce power and increase fuel consumption.
Fuel and Oil: Use the correct fuel-to-oil ratio as specified by the manufacturer. Use high-quality bar and chain oil to lubricate the chain and bar.
Spark Plug: Check the spark plug periodically and replace it when necessary. A faulty spark plug can cause starting problems and poor engine performance.

Tool Calibration Standards

Chain Sharpness: A properly sharpened chain should produce consistent chips, not fine sawdust.
Chain Tension: The chain should have approximately 1/8 inch of play when pulled down from the bar.
Fuel Mixture: A typical fuel mixture for two-stroke chainsaws is 50:1 (fuel to oil).

Personal Story

I remember one time when I was cutting firewood with a dull chain. I was struggling to make even the simplest cuts, and the chainsaw was constantly kicking back. After wasting hours, I finally took the time to sharpen the chain properly. The difference was night and day. The chainsaw cut through the wood like butter, and I was able to finish the job in a fraction of the time. That experience taught me the importance of maintaining my tools properly.

3. The Notch and Back Cut: Mastering the Felling Cut

The notch and back cut are the fundamental techniques for controlling the direction of a tree’s fall. Mastering these techniques is essential for safe and efficient felling.

The Notch

Purpose: The notch determines the direction of the fall. It creates a hinge that guides the tree as it falls.
Types of Notches: The most common types of notches are the open-face notch, the conventional notch, and the Humboldt notch. For small trees, the open-face notch is often the easiest and safest to use.
Open-Face Notch: The open-face notch consists of two cuts: a horizontal cut and a sloping cut that meet at a point. The angle of the sloping cut should be approximately 70 degrees. The depth of the notch should be about 1/5 to 1/3 of the tree’s diameter.
Accuracy: The accuracy of the notch is crucial. Use a level or inclinometer to ensure that the notch is aligned with the desired felling direction.

The Back Cut

Purpose: The back cut severs the remaining wood fibers and allows the tree to fall.
Placement: The back cut should be made slightly above the horizontal cut of the notch. Leave a hinge of uncut wood, typically about 1/10 of the tree’s diameter.
Hinge: The hinge controls the direction of the fall and prevents the tree from kicking back.
Technique: Make the back cut slowly and carefully, paying attention to the tree’s movement. Use wedges if necessary to prevent the tree from pinching the saw.
Avoiding Kickback: Kickback is a dangerous phenomenon that occurs when the chainsaw bar is pinched or strikes a hard object. To avoid kickback, use the correct cutting techniques, keep the chain sharp, and avoid cutting with the tip of the bar.

Step-by-Step Guide

Positioning: Stand to the side of the tree, out of the potential path of the fall.
Notch Cut 1 (Horizontal): Make a level, horizontal cut into the tree, aiming for a depth of about 1/5 to 1/3 of the tree’s diameter.
Notch Cut 2 (Sloping): Make a sloping cut from above, meeting the horizontal cut to form a notch with an angle of approximately 70 degrees. Remove the wedge of wood.
Back Cut: Starting on the opposite side of the tree from the notch, make a horizontal cut slightly above the horizontal cut of the notch. Leave a hinge of uncut wood.
Wedges (Optional): If the tree is leaning in the wrong direction or if there is a risk of the bar being pinched, insert wedges into the back cut to help push the tree over.
Final Cut: Once the back cut is complete and the wedges are in place, make a final cut through the hinge to fell the tree.

Data Points and Statistics

Notch Depth: A notch depth of 1/5 to 1/3 of the tree’s diameter provides adequate control for small trees.
Hinge Thickness: A hinge thickness of 1/10 of the tree’s diameter is generally sufficient to prevent kickback.
Kickback Angle: Kickback can occur at angles of up to 45 degrees from the plane of the bar.

4. Wedges and Felling Levers: Overcoming Obstacles

Sometimes, the tree doesn’t want to fall in the direction you want it to. That’s where wedges and felling levers come in. These tools help you overcome obstacles and control the tree’s fall.

Wedges

Purpose: Wedges are used to prevent the tree from pinching the saw and to help push the tree over in the desired direction.
Types of Wedges: Wedges are typically made of plastic or aluminum. Plastic wedges are less likely to damage the chainsaw chain if they are accidentally struck.
Using Wedges: Insert wedges into the back cut after making the initial cut. Drive the wedges in with a hammer or axe to gradually push the tree over.

Felling Levers

Purpose: Felling levers are used to provide additional leverage when felling trees.
Types of Felling Levers: Felling levers come in various lengths and designs. Some felling levers have a hook on the end that can be used to pull the tree over.
Using Felling Levers: Insert the felling lever into the back cut and use it to push the tree over.

Case Study: Stuck Tree

I once had a small tree that was leaning slightly in the wrong direction. After making the notch and back cut, the tree refused to fall. The saw was getting pinched, and I was worried about damaging the chain. I inserted a couple of wedges into the back cut and drove them in with a hammer. This helped to relieve the pressure on the saw and gradually push the tree over in the desired direction. Without the wedges, I would have had to abandon the felling operation.

Technical Details

Wedge Material: Plastic wedges are typically made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE).
Wedge Angle: Wedges typically have an angle of 10-15 degrees.
Felling Lever Length: Felling levers range in length from 30 inches to 60 inches.

5. Safety First: Gear and Best Practices

Safety is paramount when cutting trees. Always wear appropriate safety gear and follow best practices to minimize the risk of accidents.

Safety Gear

Helmet: A helmet protects your head from falling branches and other debris.
Eye Protection: Safety glasses or a face shield protect your eyes from sawdust and flying debris.
Hearing Protection: Earplugs or earmuffs protect your hearing from the loud noise of the chainsaw.
Gloves: Gloves protect your hands from cuts and abrasions.
Chainsaw Chaps: Chainsaw chaps protect your legs from chainsaw cuts.
Steel-Toed Boots: Steel-toed boots protect your feet from falling logs and other hazards.

Best Practices

Read the Manual: Read and understand the chainsaw’s owner’s manual before using it.
Inspect the Chainsaw: Inspect the chainsaw before each use to ensure that it is in good working order.
Clear the Area: Clear the area around the tree of obstacles and hazards.
Plan Your Escape Routes: Plan two escape routes before starting to cut.
Work with a Partner: If possible, work with a partner who can assist you in case of an emergency.
Take Breaks: Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.
Never Cut Above Shoulder Height: Cutting above shoulder height is dangerous and can lead to loss of control.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for falling branches and other hazards.
Never Cut Under the Influence: Never cut trees under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
First Aid Kit: Always have a well-stocked first aid kit readily available.

Safety Codes

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration): OSHA has specific regulations for logging and tree care operations.
ANSI (American National Standards Institute): ANSI has standards for chainsaw safety and personal protective equipment.

Unique Insights

One of the most important safety lessons I’ve learned is to trust my gut. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t do it. It’s better to err on the side of caution than to take unnecessary risks. I remember one time when I was about to fell a tree, and I had a nagging feeling that something was wrong. I couldn’t put my finger on it, but I decided to postpone the felling operation. The next day, I discovered that the tree had a hidden crack that I hadn’t noticed before. If I had felled the tree the day before, it could have been a disaster.

Specifications and Technical Requirements

Chainsaw Chaps: Chainsaw chaps should be made of ballistic nylon or similar material and should cover the entire leg from the groin to the ankle.
Hearing Protection: Hearing protection should have a noise reduction rating (NRR) of at least 25 decibels.
First Aid Kit: A first aid kit should include items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and a tourniquet.

By following these five pro tips, you can improve your efficiency, safety, and profitability when cutting small trees. Remember to always prioritize safety and to take the time to plan and prepare before each felling operation. With practice and patience, you can become a skilled and successful small tree cutter.