How to Fell a Tree Using a Chainsaw

Felling a Tree With a Chainsaw - Safety Always Comes First

Logger Ready to Fell Tree

All Photos by Rochana Schultz

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, "More people are killed while felling trees than during any other logging activity." Safety must be of utmost concern when approaching a tree to cut.

Protective clothing should be purchased along with your saw. Cutting trees with a chainsaw is particularly hard on the eyes and ears. Always use protective glasses and ear plugs. Steel capped boots and non-slip gloves are also recommended.

The American OSHA Regulation 1910.266 requires that employed chainsaw operators wear:

1. Head Protection
2. Eye and Face Protection
3. Hearing Protection
4. Chainsaw Protective Chaps or Pants
5. Chainsaw Protective Footwear

See OSHA's Logging eTool

These requirements are for professionals who know what they are doing. A casual user should take note of this and have as much protection as a professional, if not more. Understanding that safety is important, let's fell a tree...

Index: How to Fell a Tree Using a Chainsaw

1. Felling a Tree With a Chainsaw - Safety Always Comes First
2. First, Determine the Felling Direction and Clear Fall Path
3. Begin Cutting by Creating the Notch or Face Cut
4. The Top Cut and the Bottom Cut Makes the Notch
5. More on the Face Cut - Try for a One Piece Slice
6. Making a Back Cut, the Third and Final Cut
7. The Falling Tree and a Felling Retreat
8. Limbing and Bucking - Let the Real Work Begin!