How to Hinge Cut a Large Tree

Felling large trees requires precision and care, otherwise serious injury can result. It's best to always have help on hand in case an accident does occur. It's vital to understand the proper cuts to improve the safety and success of tree cutting. A hinge cut, or undercut, guides the tree so it falls in the direction desired. The control provided by this cut allows you to successfully fell a tree by controlling its fall.

Chainsaw

Instructions

- 1
  Determine which way the tree should fall. Inspect the area in the proposed fall area to ensure there are no obstacles or dangers in the path of the falling tree.
- 2
  Make a straight cut with the chainsaw about one-quarter of the way through the tree trunk. If the tree is leaning in one direction, make the cut on the side it is leaning toward. Make the cut on any desired side of a straight trunk. The tree falls toward the direction of this first cut.
- 3
  Make a second cut above the first, angling it at 45 degrees so the cut meets up with the first cut to form a slanted notch. Make the notch so it penetrates no more than one-quarter of the way into the trunk.
- 4
  Clear the area around the tree of all people, animals and machinery before making the back cut, or felling cut. Begin this cut 2 inches above the hinge point of the first cut, making it as straight as possible.
- 5
  Continue with the the cut until the tree begins to lean and fall toward the front hinge cut. Quickly turn off the chainsaw and run away from the base of the tree as it falls. Tree trunks can bounce back as they hit the ground, causing injury if you continue to stand behind the trunk.

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