Stihl 25 Bar Tips For Bucking Ash (5 Pro Arborist Secrets)

Let’s face it, felling ash and turning it into useable timber or firewood can be a real bear. It’s dense, it’s heavy, and it can be unpredictable. But, there’s immense satisfaction in seeing a well-bucked ash log transformed into something useful. I’ve spent years wrestling with ash, learning the hard way through trial and error. I’ve seen projects stall because of poor planning, and I’ve celebrated the sweet victory of a perfectly stacked cord of seasoned firewood. Now, I’m sharing my hard-won knowledge with you. Forget the YouTube clickbait – this is real-world advice, gleaned from the trenches of timber harvesting. This isn’t just about using a Stihl 25-inch bar, it’s about mastering the entire process. In this article, I’m going to share 25 tips – including 5 Pro Arborist secrets – to help you buck ash efficiently, safely, and with a professional touch, so that you can master the art of harvesting and processing ash like a seasoned professional.

Mastering Ash: 25 Tips for Bucking with a Stihl 25″ Bar (5 Pro Arborist Secrets)

1. The Right Tool for the Job: Chainsaw Selection and Maintenance

I can’t stress this enough: your chainsaw is your partner in crime. A Stihl with a 25-inch bar is a good starting point for many ash trees, but it’s not a universal solution. Consider the diameter of the trees you’re felling. Overreaching the bar’s capacity is dangerous and inefficient.

Chainsaw Size: For smaller ash (under 20 inches), a smaller saw is more maneuverable. For larger trees, a bigger saw with a longer bar is essential.
Chain Sharpness: A dull chain is a hazard. It forces you to apply more pressure, increasing the risk of kickback. Sharpen your chain regularly. I personally sharpen my chains after every tank of gas.
Chain Type: Different chains are designed for different tasks. A ripping chain is ideal for milling, while a standard chain is suitable for bucking.
Maintenance is Key: Regularly check your bar oil level, air filter, and spark plug. A well-maintained saw is a safe and efficient saw.

Pro Tip: Invest in a good quality chain sharpener. It will pay for itself in the long run. I use the Oregon 511AX sharpener and find it quick and easy to use.

2. PPE: Your First Line of Defense

I’ve seen too many accidents in the woods, and most could have been prevented with proper PPE. Don’t skimp on safety gear.

Helmet: A forestry helmet with a face shield and ear protection is non-negotiable.
Chainsaw Chaps: These are designed to stop a chainsaw in its tracks. I wouldn’t be caught dead in the woods without them.
Gloves: Good quality gloves will protect your hands and improve your grip.
Steel-Toed Boots: Protect your feet from falling logs and sharp objects.
Eye Protection: Even with a face shield, wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from sawdust.

Statistic: According to the US Forest Service, the majority of chainsaw-related injuries involve the legs and feet. Chainsaw chaps can significantly reduce the severity of these injuries.

3. Planning Your Cuts: The Art of Bucking

Bucking isn’t just about chopping wood. It’s about strategic planning to maximize yield and minimize waste.

Assess the Log: Look for knots, bends, and other imperfections. These will influence your cutting strategy.
Consider the End Use: Are you bucking for firewood, lumber, or something else? This will determine the optimal length of your cuts.
Minimize Waste: Cut around imperfections to maximize the amount of usable wood.
Plan Your Cuts: Before you start cutting, visualize the cuts you’re going to make. This will help you avoid mistakes.

Example: If I’m bucking for firewood, I aim for 16-inch lengths. If I’m bucking for lumber, I’ll measure the lengths needed for the specific project I have in mind, adding extra length for trimming.

4. Understanding Wood Tension and Compression

This is where the “Pro Arborist Secrets” start to come in. Wood is under tension and compression, especially when it’s resting on the ground. Understanding these forces is crucial for safe and efficient bucking.

Tension: The wood is being pulled apart. If you cut into the tension side, the wood will pinch the saw.
Compression: The wood is being squeezed together. If you cut into the compression side, the wood can spring back and cause kickback.
Identify the Forces: Look for signs of tension and compression. A log resting on two points will have tension on the top and compression on the bottom.

Pro Arborist Secret #1: When bucking a log resting on two points, make a shallow cut on the compression side (bottom) first, then finish the cut from the tension side (top). This will prevent the saw from getting pinched.

5. The Hinge: Controlling the Fall

When felling a tree, the hinge is what controls the direction of the fall. But even when bucking, understanding the concept of a hinge can be helpful.

Create a Hinge: By making strategic cuts, you can create a “hinge” that will allow the log to break cleanly.
Use Wedges: If the log is likely to pinch the saw, use wedges to keep the cut open.
Avoid Overcutting: Don’t cut all the way through the log. Leave a small amount of wood to act as a hinge.

Pro Arborist Secret #2: A plastic or aluminum wedge is your best friend. Avoid steel wedges, as they can damage your chain if you accidentally hit them.

6. Bucking Techniques: Mastering the Cuts

There are several different bucking techniques you can use, depending on the situation.

The Conventional Cut: This is the most common technique. You simply cut straight through the log.
The Bore Cut: This is used to relieve tension in the log. You plunge the saw into the log and then cut outwards.
The Over/Under Cut: This is used when the log is under tension. You make a shallow cut on the compression side, then finish the cut from the tension side.
The Bypass Cut: Used when you encounter an obstacle in the log, like a branch. You cut around the obstacle.

Example: If I’m bucking a log that’s resting on the ground, I’ll use the over/under cut to prevent the saw from getting pinched.

7. The Importance of a Good Stance

Your stance is crucial for safety and efficiency.

Stable Base: Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent.
Maintain Balance: Keep your weight centered and avoid leaning too far forward.
Avoid Awkward Positions: Don’t try to cut above your head or reach too far.
Plan Your Escape Route: Always have a clear escape route in case the log rolls or kicks back.

Pro Tip: Practice your stance in a safe environment before you start cutting.

8. Using Leverage to Your Advantage

Ash is heavy. Use leverage to make your job easier.

Log Lifters: These tools can help you lift logs off the ground, making them easier to cut.
Peaveys and Cant Hooks: These tools can help you roll logs into position.
Ramps: Use ramps to roll logs onto a trailer or truck.
Mechanical Assistance: If you’re dealing with large logs, consider using a tractor or skid steer.

Personal Story: I once tried to roll a massive ash log by myself. I ended up straining my back and spending a week in bed. Now, I always use a peavey or a tractor to move heavy logs.

9. Dealing with Spring Poles

Spring poles are saplings or small trees that are bent over by a fallen tree. They are extremely dangerous, as they can spring back with tremendous force when cut.

Identify Spring Poles: Look for saplings or small trees that are bent over and under tension.
Release the Tension Gradually: Don’t cut the spring pole all the way through. Make a series of small cuts to release the tension gradually.
Stay Out of the Path: Stand to the side of the spring pole, out of the path of the potential kickback.

Pro Arborist Secret #3: Use a rope or cable to control the spring pole. Tie the rope to the spring pole and then pull it away from you as you cut.

10. The Art of Limb Removal

Limbing is the process of removing branches from a fallen tree. It can be a dangerous task, as branches can be under tension and can spring back when cut.

Work from the Base: Start limbing from the base of the tree and work your way up.
Cut on the Outside: Cut on the outside of the branch, away from your body.
Support the Branch: If a branch is under tension, support it with your hand or foot before cutting.
Be Aware of Spring Poles: Be careful of branches that are acting as spring poles.

Pro Tip: Use a lopper or a pruning saw to remove small branches. This will reduce the risk of kickback.

11. Recognizing and Avoiding Kickback

Kickback is one of the most common causes of chainsaw injuries. It occurs when the tip of the chainsaw bar comes into contact with an object, causing the saw to suddenly kick back towards the operator.

Avoid the Kickback Zone: The kickback zone is the upper quadrant of the tip of the chainsaw bar. Avoid using this area to cut.
Maintain a Firm Grip: Keep a firm grip on the chainsaw with both hands.
Don’t Overreach: Don’t reach too far when cutting.
Be Aware of Obstacles: Be aware of obstacles that could cause kickback.

Statistic: According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, kickback is responsible for approximately 30% of chainsaw-related injuries.

12. Efficient Log Handling: From Forest to Firewood

Getting the logs from the forest to your woodpile is a crucial step. I’ve learned that optimizing this process saves time and energy.

Skidding: If you’re working in a remote area, consider using a skidder or a tractor to move logs.
Loading: Use a log loader or a tractor with a grapple to load logs onto a trailer or truck.
Transportation: Use a trailer or truck to transport logs to your woodpile.
Unloading: Use a log loader or a tractor with a grapple to unload logs at your woodpile.

Data Point: A study by the University of Maine found that using a skidder to move logs can reduce labor costs by up to 40%.

13. Splitting Ash: The Right Tools and Techniques

Ash can be tough to split, especially when it’s green. Using the right tools and techniques is essential.

Axes: A splitting axe is a good choice for splitting smaller logs.
Mauls: A maul is a heavier axe that’s designed for splitting larger logs.
Hydraulic Splitters: A hydraulic splitter is the most efficient way to split large quantities of wood.
Wedges: Use wedges to split logs that are particularly difficult to split.

Personal Experience: I used to try to split ash with a regular axe. It was exhausting and inefficient. Once I switched to a hydraulic splitter, my productivity increased dramatically.

14. Mastering the Splitting Technique

Splitting wood is more than just brute force. Technique matters.

Aim for the Center: Aim for the center of the log when splitting.
Use a Solid Base: Place the log on a solid base, such as a splitting block.
Swing with Your Body: Use your entire body to generate power.
Follow Through: Follow through with your swing.

Pro Tip: Sharpen your axe or maul regularly. A sharp tool is safer and more efficient.

15. Stacking Firewood: Maximizing Airflow

Properly stacking firewood is crucial for seasoning. The goal is to maximize airflow to allow the wood to dry.

Elevate the Stack: Elevate the stack off the ground to improve airflow.
Leave Space Between Rows: Leave space between rows to allow air to circulate.
Stack in a Sunny Location: Stack the wood in a sunny location to promote drying.
Cover the Top: Cover the top of the stack to protect the wood from rain and snow.

Example: I stack my firewood on pallets to elevate it off the ground. I also leave a few inches of space between rows.

16. Seasoning Ash: The Waiting Game

Seasoning is the process of drying wood to reduce its moisture content. Dry wood burns hotter and cleaner than green wood.

Moisture Content: The ideal moisture content for firewood is below 20%.
Drying Time: Ash typically takes 6-12 months to season properly.
Monitor Moisture Content: Use a moisture meter to monitor the moisture content of your firewood.

Data Point: A study by the University of Wisconsin found that seasoned firewood produces up to 50% more heat than green firewood.

17. Safe Wood Storage: Preventing Hazards

Safe wood storage is important to prevent accidents and injuries.

Stable Stacks: Ensure that your firewood stacks are stable and won’t topple over.
Clear Pathways: Keep pathways clear around your firewood stacks.
Protect from the Elements: Protect your firewood from the elements to prevent rot and decay.
Pest Control: Take steps to control pests, such as termites and carpenter ants.

Personal Experience: I once had a firewood stack collapse on me. Luckily, I wasn’t seriously injured, but it was a scary experience. Now, I always make sure my stacks are stable.

18. Sustainable Harvesting Practices

Sustainable harvesting practices are important for protecting our forests.

Selective Cutting: Practice selective cutting, which involves removing only mature or diseased trees.
Reforestation: Reforest areas that have been harvested.
Protect Water Quality: Protect water quality by avoiding logging near streams and rivers.
Minimize Soil Erosion: Minimize soil erosion by using proper logging techniques.

Quote: “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” – Chinese Proverb

19. Understanding Ash Varieties

Not all ash is created equal. Knowing the different varieties can help you predict its splitting characteristics and burning qualities.

White Ash: Known for its straight grain and easy splitting. Burns cleanly and produces good heat.
Green Ash: Often tougher to split than white ash, especially when green. Still a good firewood choice.
Black Ash: More prone to rot and decay than white or green ash. Not the best choice for firewood if other options are available.

Pro Arborist Secret #4: Look at the bark. White ash has a diamond-shaped bark pattern, while green ash has a tighter, more ridged pattern. Black ash bark is often flaky and easily peels off.

20. Dealing with Emerald Ash Borer (EAB)

The Emerald Ash Borer is a devastating invasive insect that has killed millions of ash trees across North America. If you’re harvesting ash, you need to be aware of EAB.

Identify EAB Infestation: Look for signs of EAB infestation, such as D-shaped exit holes in the bark and thinning canopy.
Remove Infested Trees: Remove infested trees to prevent the spread of EAB.
Quarantine Restrictions: Be aware of quarantine restrictions in your area.
Report Infestations: Report infestations to your local Department of Agriculture.

Statistic: The Emerald Ash Borer has killed an estimated 100 million ash trees in North America.

21. Chainsaw Filing Techniques: Maintaining a Sharp Edge

I mentioned chain sharpness earlier, but it’s so crucial it deserves its own section. A properly filed chain cuts faster, smoother, and is significantly safer.

Filing Angle: Maintain the correct filing angle for your chain. Consult your chainsaw manual for the recommended angle.
Depth Gauge: Check the depth gauge and file it down as needed.
Consistent Strokes: Use consistent strokes when filing.
Use a Guide: Use a filing guide to ensure that you’re filing at the correct angle.

Pro Tip: Invest in a good quality chainsaw file and filing guide. It will make the job easier and more accurate.

22. First Aid in the Woods: Being Prepared for the Unexpected

Accidents can happen, even when you’re being careful. It’s important to be prepared for the unexpected.

First Aid Kit: Carry a well-stocked first aid kit with you at all times.
Communication: Have a way to communicate with the outside world, such as a cell phone or a two-way radio.
Know Your Location: Know your location in case you need to call for help.
CPR Training: Consider taking a CPR and first aid course.

Personal Story: I once witnessed a fellow logger cut himself badly with a chainsaw. Luckily, I had a first aid kit and was able to stop the bleeding until help arrived.

23. Chainsaw Safety Features: Understanding and Utilizing Them

Modern chainsaws are equipped with a variety of safety features designed to prevent accidents. It’s important to understand how these features work and to use them properly.

Chain Brake: The chain brake is designed to stop the chain immediately in the event of kickback.
Throttle Lock: The throttle lock prevents accidental acceleration of the chain.
Chain Catcher: The chain catcher is designed to catch the chain if it breaks.
Anti-Vibration System: The anti-vibration system reduces fatigue and improves control.

Pro Arborist Secret #5: Regularly inspect your chainsaw’s safety features to ensure they are working properly. Don’t operate a chainsaw with faulty safety features.

24. Selling Firewood: Turning a Profit from Your Hard Work

If you’re producing more firewood than you can use, consider selling it.

Pricing: Research the market price for firewood in your area.
Advertising: Advertise your firewood for sale online or in local newspapers.
Delivery: Offer delivery services to your customers.
Customer Service: Provide excellent customer service.

Data Point: According to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, the average price for a cord of firewood in the United States is around $250.

25. Continuous Learning: Staying Up-to-Date

The world of logging and firewood preparation is constantly evolving. It’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and best practices.

Read Industry Publications: Read industry publications, such as Timber Harvesting and Logging Management.
Attend Workshops and Seminars: Attend workshops and seminars to learn from experts in the field.
Network with Other Professionals: Network with other professionals in the industry.
Stay Informed About Safety Regulations: Stay informed about safety regulations.

Quote: “The only thing that is constant is change.” – Heraclitus

Takeaways and Next Steps

Bucking ash successfully requires a blend of knowledge, skill, and careful planning. It’s not just about wielding a chainsaw; it’s about understanding the wood, respecting the forces at play, and prioritizing safety at every step. I’ve shared my personal experiences, industry insights, and pro arborist secrets to help you master this challenging but rewarding task.

Here are your next steps:

Review Your PPE: Ensure you have the proper safety gear and that it’s in good condition.
Sharpen Your Chain: A sharp chain is essential for safe and efficient bucking.
Practice Your Techniques: Practice your bucking techniques in a safe environment.
Start Small: Don’t try to tackle too much at once. Start with smaller projects and gradually increase your workload.
Stay Safe: Always prioritize safety and be aware of your surroundings.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to bucking ash like a pro, transforming raw timber into valuable firewood or lumber, and enjoying the satisfaction of a job well done. Now get out there and make some sawdust!