How to Plunge Cut #chainsaw #treefelling #logging #firewood #stihl
Welcome to our latest blog post about how to plunge cut with your chainsaw. We have all been there – you need to fell a tree or cut up some firewood, but you’re not quite sure how to make a plunge cut safely and effectively. That’s where we come in! In this post, we will guide you step-by-step on how to plunge cut using your chainsaw and offer some expert tips to help you get the job done quickly and efficiently. So, let’s get started!
Introduction:
Hi there, folks! We’re excited to bring you a new video from Rockhill Farm. This time, we’re focusing on how to plunge cut a tree with the Stihl 500i. We know many of you have questions about this topic, so we’ve put together a comprehensive video tutorial to help guide you through the process. In this article, we’ll break down the steps shown in the video and provide additional tips and tricks to make your tree felling experience easier and safer. So without further ado, let’s jump right in!
Step-by-Step Guide to Plunge Cutting a Tree:
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Assess the Tree: Before we begin, it’s important to inspect the tree you’re planning to fell. Look for any cracks, lean, or signs of decay. These can be signs that the tree is unstable and may require a different felling technique. Additionally, check for surrounding obstacles that may interfere with the fall.
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Make Initial Cuts: Start by making an initial cut on the side where you want the tree to fall. This cut should be at a 45-degree angle and roughly 1/3 the diameter of the tree. Next, make a horizontal cut about 2 inches above the apex of the initial cut. This will form a notch and guide the tree in the direction you want it to fall.
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Begin Plunge Cut: With the notch created, it’s time to begin the plunge cut. Start by positioning the chainsaw horizontally against the tree and at a 90-degree angle to the cut line. Slowly insert the chainsaw into the tree until the bar reaches the depth of the initial cut.
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Plunge Cut Continues: Once the chainsaw bar has reached the initial cut, begin angling the chainsaw forward and downward towards the stump. The amount of angle required will depend on the size of the tree. Continue cutting until you’ve reached the desired depth.
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Finish the Cut: Once you’ve reached the desired depth, slowly back the chainsaw out of the tree, trying to keep the kerf as straight as possible. Once you’ve completed the cut, the tree should start falling in the direction of the notch.
Additional Tips and Tricks:
- Always wear proper PPE when felling trees, including gloves, eye protection, and hearing protection.
- Keep the chainsaw chain sharp and well-maintained to prevent accidents and ensure a smooth cut.
- Consider using wedges to help control the fall of the tree.
- If possible, avoid felling trees in windy conditions or when the ground is slippery.
Follow-Up and Conclusion:
Thanks for watching our tutorial on how to plunge cut a tree with the Stihl 500i! We hope you found this information helpful in your future tree felling endeavors. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more great videos on equipment and farming. You can also follow us on Facebook for updates and new content. If you enjoy our videos, please consider supporting us by checking out our merch store and buying a Rockhill Farm logo t-shirt or buying us a coffee. Lastly, we recommend joining our Facebook group for great content on tractors and rural living.
FAQs:
- Is plunge cutting safe?
- Plunge cutting can be safe when done correctly with proper safety precautions and equipment.
- How do I know if a tree is safe to cut?
- It’s important to assess the tree for cracks, lean, and signs of decay. If the tree is unstable, it may require a different felling technique.
- Do I need special equipment to plunge cut a tree?
- You’ll need a chainsaw with a long enough bar to reach the depth required for the plunge cut.
- Can I plunge cut any size of tree?
- The size of the tree will determine the angle required for the plunge cut. Larger trees may require more advanced equipment and techniques.
- Can I plunge cut trees alone?
- It’s always recommended to have at least one other person present when felling trees for safety reasons.
