OPERATION Types of Cutting Used Overbucking Begin on the top side of the log with the bottom of the saw against the log; exert light pressure downward. When pruning trees it is important not to make the flush cut next to the main limb or trunk until you have cut off the limb further out to reduce the weight. This prevents stripping the bark from the main member. Underbuck the branch 1/3 through for your first cut, your second cut should overbuck to drop the branch off. Now make your finishing cut smoothly and neatly against the main member so the bark will grow back to seal the wound.
Second cut LOAD Underbucking Begin on the under side of the log with the top of the saw against the log; exert light pressure upward. During underbucking, the saw will tend to push back at you. Be prepared for this reaction and hold the saw firmly to maintain control. First cut 1/3 diameter Finishing cut Limbing and Pruning Work slowly, keeping both hands on the saw with a firm grip. Maintain secure footing and balance. Keep the tree between you and the chain while limbing ( A ). Cut from the side of the tree opposite the branch you are cutting. Do not cut from a ladder, this is extremely dangerous. Leave this operation for professionals.
Do not cut above chest height as a saw held higher is difficult to control against kickback. WARNING If the limbs to be pruned are above chest height, hire a professional to perform the pruning. Springpoles A springpole ( B ) is any log, branch, rooted stump, or sapling which is bent under tension by other wood so that it springs back if the wood holding it is cut or removed. On a fallen tree, a rooted stump has a high potential of springing back to the upright position during the bucking cut to separate the log from the stump. Watch out for springpoles. They are potentially danger- ous. WARNING Never climb into a tree to limb or prune.
Do not stand on ladders, platforms, a log or in any position which can cause you to lose your balance or control of the saw. A B WARNING Springpoles are dangerous and could strike the opera- tor, causing the operator to lose control of the chain saw. This could result in severe or fatal injury to the operator. 18 English