DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw Kit, 5-Ah Battery, 12-Inch (DCCS620P1)

 DEWALT 20V MAX XR Chainsaw Kit, 5-Ah Battery, 12-Inch (DCCS620P1) 

 About this item

•     Low kick back 12" Oregon Bar and chain: for construction and outdoor cutting applications
•     HIGH EFFICIENCY BRUSHLESS MOTOR: maximizes run time and motor life
•     Tool free chain tensioning and Bar tightening knob: for proper Bar clamping force
•     Compact and lightweight design: Only 8.8 lbs. for maximum user control and comfort
•     Part of the 20V max system of tools
•     Chain Speed : 25.2 feet/second

Six steps to felling a tree correctly

When felling trees, it is essential to use proper work techniques, not only to create a safe working environment, but also to increase work efficiency.

1. Preliminary planning

When it comes to felling trees with a chainsaw, preparation is key. By planning the logging and the forestry equipment you are going to bring, not only are you making the workday safer, but you are also making post-logging work much easier. First, ask yourself if there are any major obstacles in the area, such as power lines, roads, or buildings. Distribute warning signs if you know that there is a road through the forest area or that there are many people passing through that area on a daily basis.

2. Check the direction of fall

Next, determine the direction of the fall by carefully studying the tree. What do the branches look like and how do they grow? Also take into account the direction of the wind. If you are unclear about the tree's natural fall direction, stay away from it and check it with a plumb line (see the data chart for information). Clear the area around the tree's intended fall direction. Also clear a 45-degree zone behind the tree in both directions to create an escape route.

3. Prune the trunk

When you've cleared the area, post your warning signs in the direction of the tree's fall and your chosen escape route. You must check that you have enough fuel in your tank for the task ahead. Then it will be time to prune the trunk to get rid of all the large and small branches that can get in the way when making the felling cut. The safest way to prune is to do it with a pull chain (under the bar) from the top down.

4. Decide on the cutting technique

Once the trunk has been pruned to shoulder height, it is time to make the felling cut. When doing so, it is important to remember two things: the hinge must be of uniform thickness with the proper dimensions and the knockdown wedge or ripper bar must be inserted before the tree can engage the bar. The cutting technique to use will depend on the size of the tree and the slope, as well as the size of the chainsaw. Here we have compiled information about the different techniques, so that you can find for yourself the method that best suits your conditions. / insert link to proper passage in "working with chainsaws" /

5. Check the tree for diseases

If you notice that the wood is discolored and soft or if the lower part of the trunk looks swollen or diseased, you should be very careful. This indicates that the tree is rotten and the fibers of the wood are weakened. If this happens, log in the direction of the tree's natural fall and use a winch if you are unsure. Rot normally decreases the higher up the tree, so one option would be to knock it down leaving a taller than normal stump.

6. Choose the tool

You can choose from several felling tools when felling a tree. The size of the tree determines the type of forestry equipment needed. For smaller trees, felling tools are not usually necessary. The manual force is sufficient, perhaps with the help of a long bar. The knockdown wedge offers greater knockdown force than the different types of ripper bars. In extreme cases, you can use a rope and a winch, which are the safest and most powerful way to fell a tree. Take a look at the data box to learn more about the different tools available.

How to calculate tree height

• Hold a stick with your arm extended straight in front of you so that the length of the stick equals the distance between your eye and your hand; Next, hold the stick upright so that a right triangle forms between the eye, the hand, and the top of the stick.
• Aim at the tree and stand at a distance where the tree appears as tall as the length of the stick. If the tree is leaning, you will get more accurate results if you measure from the side, so the tree is not leaning towards you or the other way.
• The distance between where you are and the tree will be equal to its height.

How to measure the slope of a tree with a plumb bob

• Aim the plumb bob toward the top of the tree trunk.
• Measure the distance from the point of impact of the plumb bob to the center of the trunk.

Felling tools

• The standing stripper bar is suitable for thinning small trees. Insert the tool before completing the felling cut and support your full weight on the lever arm. The ripper bar is usually telescopic and can be carried in a tool belt holster.
• The ripper bar is used on relatively small trees. To maximize lifting force, insert the tool (before completing the felling cut) into the center of the felling cut as far back as possible. Do the lift with your legs and keep your back straight.
• The impact bar is used in the same way as the ripper bar, although it can also be used as a striking tool when using demolition wedges.
• Falling wedges are ideal for medium to large trees. They are inserted before completing the felling cut and struck with an ax or impact bar. Always use plastic or aluminum wedges to avoid the risk of damaging the chain if you accidentally cut them.
• The winch is used in situations where maximum strength and safety are required. To achieve maximum effect, the cable is placed as high as possible in the tree.