5 Things to Know About Plunge Cuts in Tree Felling

Practice plunge cuts on a log on the ground first This is not a skill to learn from a video while mid-fell. Get the placement exact every time before trying it on a standing tree.

A plunge cut lets you start the back cut while leaving a hinge You drive the bar tip straight into the trunk instead of cutting from the side. The remaining wood strip becomes your hinge, which controls the tree’s fall direction.

Kickback risk is highest with plunge cuts The nose of the bar touching the tree without being buried triggers kickback. Use a low-kickback bar and chain, and approach from the side, not directly behind the bar.

Keep the chain at full throttle throughout the cut Stab the tip in above the intended hinge level, then pivot the bar to cut rearward. Never let the nose touch the tree without being fully buried.

Have an experienced cutter watch your first few attempts Your hinge is your lifeline. Do not learn this solo on a live tree standing over your feet.