How to Cut Down a Tree (or fell) With a Chainsaw. Felling trees with chainsaw

How to Cut Down a Tree (or fell) With a Chainsaw

Well, before you fire that chainsaw up, it’s good to know what you’re doing.

In this post, I’ll teach you everything you need to know about how to cut down a tree with a chainsaw. This process is also referred to as “felling” a tree.

So, I’ll also teach you how to fell a tree with a chainsaw.

Cutting down (or felling) a tree may seem like an easy task when the tree is small, but once you start taking down taller pines and oaks, it gets a bit complicated.

Felling a tree with a chainsaw takes crucial planning and thought before you go at it. Otherwise, you may cause yourself or those around you to get injured.

But don’ worry, I’ll make sure you know everything necessary for this job so it will go as smooth as possible.

Don’t Have a Chainsaw Yet?

If you’re reading this guide and don’t already own a chainsaw, then I invite you to check out my list of the top chainsaws.

That post will help you find the best chainsaw to take down trees that meets your specific needs.

You’ll learn about the various types of chainsaws, which features makes each one stand out, and find reviews of the top 10 chainsaws you can buy today.

I also have another post on the best 18 inch chainsaws which are ideal for cutting down the average size tree. And a free guide on the best chainsaw for cutting firewood, if you’re going to use the tree you’re cutting down for heat.

It’s worth it just to even see what chainsaws are out there.

First, Preparing to Cut Down a Tree

Get the Proper Permits (If Required)

One thing I need to mention up front is that some areas have strict environmental regulations.

That means, you can’t just go around cutting down trees with your chainsaw.

If the tree you want to fell is on your own property, you’re likely to be fine. But, if it’s in a neighbors yard or another piece of land, then you’ll want to make sure you get any of the necessary permits (or permission) to take down the tree.

Check with your local tree commission if you have any doubts.

Make the Necessary Preparations

When cutting down trees, safety always comes first.

Tall trees are extremely heavy and you don’t want to make the mistake of taking down a house, barn, power line, fence, or other structure along with the tree by accident.

Therefore, when you’re preparing to fell a tree with a chainsaw, take note of which objects and structures are in the vicinity.

If there are any public areas or chances for people to walk (or drive) through the location, put up warning signs so they can be aware that active logging is taking place.

You also want to pay attention to the other trees as well. It’s not uncommon for a tree to have a ripple effect with other trees when it comes crashing down. This can lead to all sorts of danger and even a bigger mess to clean up.

Try to imagine all possible scenarios before cutting with your chainsaw.

Also, make sure you’re wearing the right protective equipment too.

If you don’t have a high-quality pair of safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, chaps, helmet, etc., then take a look at my chainsaw safety equipment reviews to see the top gear that’s available.

Pick a Direction for the Tree to Fall

After you’ve surveyed the area and feel confident that you’re not going to cause any damage to structures (or injuries to people), you can now figure out which direction you want to fell the tree.

If the tree is already leaning in one direction, it may be best to just let it naturally fall that way when you cut it down. That is if there are no objects within the fall zone.

The fall zone is the area directly in the path of the tree when it comes down. For small to medium sized trees, you may be able to measure the vertical height and then get an accurate distance of how much space it will cover when felled on the ground horizontally.

For really tall trees that are not measurable, you’ll need to make your best guess by eyeballing it.

Regardless of the height, if the tree is not leaning in one particular direction, then you can usually pick any direction for it to fall. Just keep in mind how easy or difficult it will be for you to complete the job while working in the fall zone.

For example, if the tree is next to a stream, you may not want to let it fall in that direction since cutting that portion of the timber could be difficult.

Clear Your Getaway Path

When you cut down a tree, you need to get away from it fast—and at a good distance—to ensure your safety.

The best direction for you to go is at a 90-degree angle from the fall. This will keep you out of the felling zone and the side where the trunk separates from the stump.

So, before you start felling the tree with your chainsaw you first need to make sure that the area around the tree and your getaway path is clear of debris and other obstacles.

Once the tree starts falling, you don’t want to be dodging other trees, fallen limbs, rocks, or other objects.

Remove Low Branches

If the tree your cutting down has any branches that are shoulder height or lower, then you’ll want to remove those before you actually fell the tree.

Removing these branches will give you the clearance you need to more easily use the chainsaw on the tree. It will also help to eliminate any close snapping wood that could ricochet off the ground and fly back toward you.

A good safety tip here is to work at an angle that puts the tree trunk between you and the chainsaw when removing the lower branches. Also, never cut anything higher than your shoulders. That’s a recipe for disaster and can cause serious injuries since you don’t have good control at those heights.

How to Cut Down a Tree with a Chainsaw

When it comes to how to cut down a tree with a chainsaw, you have three options. And each one uses three cuts to make what’s called a “notch”.

The type of notch you choose to fell a tree is personal preference.

Each method of notching achieves the same end result. So, pick the one that seems most logical to you, and over time, try out each type of notch on other trees so you can find the one you like best.

Cuts 1 and 2: Face Cuts

The first two cuts you need to learn for how to fell a tree with a chainsaw are the face cuts.

The notch is made on the side of the tree that faces the direction you want it to fall.

A comfortable height for making face cuts is about 24 inches from the ground. And you want to saw to a depth of about 20-25% of the tree’s diameter.

If you’re right-handed, notch the face cuts on the right side of the trunk. If you’re left-handed, make the face cuts on the left.

• Open-Faced Notch: This is a wide cut that’s ideally 90-degrees, but can be as small as 70-degrees.
• Conventional Notch: This is a cut that’s at a 45-degree angle. The top part of the cut is angled downward while the bottom part is flat.
• Humbolt Notch: This cut is a reverse of the Conventional Cut. The top part of the cut is flat while the bottom part is at an angle upward, creating an upside down 45-degree angled notch.

Cut 3: Back Cut

Once the front notch is cut, you can then make the back cut with your chainsaw.

The back cut is what disconnects the tree from the stump and creates a hinge for the tree to fall.

The width of the back cut should be about 10% of the diameter of the tree trunk. Stop cutting when you’re a few inches away from the notch.

The back cut is made on the opposite side of the notch and exact height will depend on the type of notch you chose:

• Open-Faced Notch: The back cut should be made at the same height as the corner of the notch.
• Conventional Notch: The back cut should be at least 1 inch above the bottom cut.
• Humbolt Notch: The back cut should be at least 1 inch above the top cut.

Once you’ve made the back cut with your chainsaw, the tree may start to fall. If so, stay calm, keep your eyes on the tree and move away quickly.

If the tree is still upright, then you’ll want to use a felling wedge to make the tree begin to fall. The felling wedge acts as a lever that gives the tree a push in the right direction for it to tip over.

Insert the wedge into the back cut and tap it with a sledge hammer until the tree starts to fall.

If the Tree Becomes Lodged During the Fall

Sometimes a tree may become lodged or stuck in another tree when it’s on the way down.

If that happens, the best thing you can do is get help from an experienced logger.

Using your chainsaw to try and cut a lodged tree or the tree that it is stuck in can pose a lot of danger. So, it’s best that you don’t attempt this type of thing without professional help.

If you must leave the tree to go find help, rope off the area so that anyone who passes by is aware of the possible danger of a falling tree. Like always, safety comes first when it comes to cutting down trees.

Check out the Top Selling Chainsaws

Now that you know how to cut down a tree with a chainsaw, you may be wanting to buy your first chainsaw or upgrade an existing tool.

If either of those is the case, I invite you to check out my list of the top chainsaws. It includes the top 10 chainsaws you can by today sorted by type: gas powered, battery operated, and electric.

I also have a dedicated page on the best 18 inch chainsaws which are an excellent length for felling medium to large size trees. They also make a good size for cutting firewood, which you can learn more about in this guide on the best chainsaw for cutting firewood.

Take a quick look at those posts to get a feel for the kinds of chainsaws you can get for cutting down trees.

I hope you enjoyed this guide on how to fell a tree with a chainsaw.

Good luck!

How to fell trees

Felling non-native species to retain the character of a woodland can involve anything from pruning and removing saplings to full-scale felling of a mature tree. The trunks are snedded before being logged up to provide usable timber.

Hands-on techniques for felling trees

Basic Felling Techniques

Note: on this page, ‘front’ and ‘back’ are arbitrary terms, the front being the side towards which the tree is intended to fall.

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Study the tree and its surroundings closely to determine which way to fell it. Assess the distribution of the weight on the crown and the space available to drop it into. Plan to avoid obstacles – particularly overhead cables, fences, old stumps and other trees.

Note also the wind, strength and direction. If the tree crown is swaying heavily don’t fell.

Before starting to cut, make sure that the escape route is clear, check there is no one in the danger zones. If two people are involved, decide who will keep hold of the saw. Warning notices should be put up on any path crossing the area, hazard tape should be used to cordon areas off and people should be employed to warn passers by.

Clear the area around the base of the tree before starting to fell.

When the tree starts to fall, step back down the escape route, watching the tree. If it falls towards you, don’t run, but stay reasonably close to the trunk and step sideways to evade it. Watch out for kickback and splitting timber.

After felling tidy up and cut leaving a low stump.

Felling Larger Trees

The procedure described below is suitable for trunks up to about 200mm (8”) diameter at the base. Anything larger than this should only be felled by a trained and competent person.

Cut away any buttress at the base of the tree.

It is often easiest to cut the felling sink (birds beak) by sawing the horizontal cut, then axing away the wood. It is easier this way to make the two cuts meet exactly.

The felling cut should be parallel to and a few centimetres above the back of the sink. The height difference makes a step which reduces the likelihood of the butt bouncing back.

Give an adequate hinge of 3cm minimum to control the speed and direction of fall. A hinge that is thicker at one end will cause the tree to twist towards that end as it falls.

Felling Small Trees

Trees up to 8cm diameter can be cut straight through.

Trees up to 15cm diameter should be undercut on the front about a third of the way through, before the felling cut is made from the back.

Trees heavily weighted in one direction

Do not try to remove one or more limbs to balance the tree, this is for professionals. You can usually assume the tree will fall the way it is leaning, no matter what precautions you take.

A tree weighted away from the intended direction of fall must be pulled back with force sufficient to overcome its entire weight. Winching will exert more force more constantly than volunteers pulling on a rope, as well as being a lot safer. Make sure that the winch anchor point will take the weight.

Fix the rope or winch cable two thirds of the way up the main trunk before starting to fell. The rope should be long enough for the volunteers to be outside the danger zone.

Dead trees

Dead trees are liable to give way unexpectedly or to shed limbs, therefore they are best left standing and handled by a qualified expert. Check for dead biomass on healthy trees. If the tree isn’t heavily rotten, watch for signs of rot such as pulpy or black sawdust, or liquid. Carry on, but leave a larger hinge and work slowly.

Hung-up trees

If a tree gets hung up, deal with it immediately. Never leave a site with a hung up tree.

To untangle a small tree pull the butt away from the stump. If it is still attached, cut it clear or use a felling lever.

To shift medium sized trees, get one or two stout poles. Lever up the butt and slide it a few cms. Repeat this until the tree falls clear.

Larger trees need winching. Make sure the anchor point is strong enough. It is often easier to winch the trunk sideways from the stump.

Never try cutting sections off the trunk.

Snedding

Snedding is best done with a billhook or loppers, particularly for small branches. Bowsaws are useful for larger branches.

Cut from the butt of the tree towards the tip.

Stand to one side of the tree whilst cutting branches off the other.

This leaves the tree trunk between the billhook and the person snedding.

Large branches growing up from the trunk should be felled in the same way as trees.

Sned as close to the trunk as possible to produce clean logs which are easier to transport and handle.

Look for branches taking some of the weight of the tree. The tree may move as the branch breaks. Roll the tree to take the weight off the branch before snedding it.

Logging Up

Once a tree has been snedded, cross cut into logs of whatever size is required.

It is usually easiest to start at the tip where the tree is lightest. Support the tree so the cuts will open as you saw.

When cutting logs, balance them on another trunk. This gives straight logs for stacking or making cords.

Pruning

Never leave a stub when pruning. It will die back and allow rot into the heart of the tree.

Small branches 5cm can be cut straight through. Cut with one hand, taking the weight of the branch with the other.

Larger branches should be cut in three stages. The undercut should be about one third of the way through, extended to cut the bark around half of the branches diameter. This stops the branches splitting or the bark tearing.

Fires

It may be necessary to uses fires to burn branches and trimmings. Situate it so that the smoke does not blow across the work area but close enough to minimise the amount of dragging.

Leave wood to decay where practical or chop it up for mulch. If there is simply too much small, controlled fires are OK, providing the client knows. Also let the local fire brigade know beforehand.

After work, make sure fires are out before leaving the site.

Using Chainsaws

Sometimes a chainsaw operator may be needed in coppice work. Only those individuals holding a TCV chainsaw card may use one on any site where TCV staff, volunteers or local groups covered by TCV insurance are working. To get a card you must have a National Proficiency Test Council (or equivalent) certificate and be able to provide evidence of continuing competence. Operators must wear protective safety clothing and equipment.

Season

September to March, i.e. outside the breeding season.

Preparation and working with groups

Site visit

Visit the work site in advance to gain a clear idea of what you will be doing on the day.

Assess the suitability of the project for the group you will be leading and the time available.

Check for obstacles to felling – particularly overhead cables (don’t fell within 15m of electricity cables) and fences. Discuss any obstacles with the client in case the work plan needs to be altered. Decide what is to be done with the cut wood. Undertake a risk assessment for both project and site.

If there is public access to the site, plan exclusion zones and lookout points.

Tools and equipment

Depending on the size of the team adjust the quantity of equipment taken to the site.

Check the tools are in good condition before using them.

• First aid kit
• Appropriate protective gloves
• Goggles
• Hard hats
• Axes
• Bowsaws (small and large)
• Billhooks
• Loppers
• Slashers
• Mattocks
• Felling levers
• Polesaws
• Sharpening stone
• Wedges and sledgehammer
• Winch and rope
• Matches and firelighting equipment
• Hazard tape
• Ensure all team members are wearing appropriate footwear and clothing and issue the specified safety equipment.

Introduction

Introduce the site, the work and the reasons for doing it.

Walk around the site explaining what work will be undertaken. Identify potential hazards and explain how people can work safely around them.

Demonstrate tool use

Demonstrate and explain the safe use, carrying and on-site care of the tools before starting work.

Refer to the TCV Hand Tools booklet [coming soon].

Demonstrate work techniques

Demonstrate all new work techniques as you come to them. This will save mistakes and avoid accidents.

Plan the location of log piles to minimise the distance wood is dragged.

Demonstrate correct lifting technique (bending the knee and keeping the back straight so that the leg muscles are used and the back is not strained).

Organisation of team

Divide the team into small groups or pairs and ensure everyone has a turn at each job, although each person should sned and log up the trees they fell.

See that no one part of the job holds up the others. If necessary move people around to ensure this.

Beware of boredom and fatigue. Let people change jobs at breaks. Make sure everyone is part of the team.

Check that people work at safe distances from each other. People felling trees should be at least three tree lengths apart, but within earshot of each other. At all times everyone should be kept informed of the location of felling zones. The leader should check, assist and encourage people and ensure work standards are maintained.

Learn the art of dry stone walling, woodland management, tree planting, hedgelaying and much more.

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This information is believed to be correct but does not obviate the need for further enquiries as appropriate. This is not a comprehensive statement of all safety procedures to ensure the health and safety of all users. No responsibility is accepted by The Conservation Volunteers for accidents or damage as a result of its use. The information and advice on this page MAY assist you to gain National Vocational Qualifications in Environmental Conservation.

The 5 Best Chainsaws For Cutting Trees of 2023

The following list will help you decide on what you think is the best chainsaw for cutting trees in 2023. STIHL is a great and reliable manufacturer of chainsaws and other tools and equipment, and we have given you the low-down on some of their top products.

The list features strong and powerful chainsaws like the STIHL MS 462 C-M, as well as light and quick tools like the MS 362 C-M.

But which of them is our top contender for cutting trees overall? Keep reading to find out.

The 5 Best Chainsaws For Cutting Trees of 2023

STIHL MS 661

Our selection for the best overall chainsaw for cutting trees is none other than the STIHL MS 661 R C-M 25 in. 91.1 cc gas chainsaw. This a professional-grade tool designed for all tree-cutting applications.

This model offers a powerful engine, advanced technology, and a range of safety features, making it a popular option amongst farmers, forestry professionals, and even homeowners.

The STIHL MS 661 R C-M has a 91.1 CC engine delivering a maximum power output of 7.4 kW. It also features a 25-inch guide bar and a 3/8-inch pitch chain, making this an ideal combination for easily cutting through large trees and logs.

This tool uses STIHL’s M-Tronic technology, an excellent feature that automatically adjusts the fuel-to-air ratio based on operating conditions for optimal performance, adding to the overall speed and power.

As an added bonus, the chainsaw features a wrap-around handle design providing a comfortable grip and allowing for easy maneuvering.

The MS 661 R C-M is also designed with a range of other features, making it an excellent choice for tree cutting. It is equipped with a decompression valve that makes it easy to start, adding to ease of use and comfort.

Additionally, it has been designed with a pre-separation air filtration system that removes large particles of debris before they reach the air filter, improving engine performance and extending the filter’s life. This feature makes the tool more powerful and easy to maintain.

The MS 661 R C-M also features a toolless fuel and oil cap, making it easy to refill, even with gloves on, further adding to the equipment’s ease of use and maintenance.

The STIHL’s powerful engine facilitates the ease of cutting through larger trees and logs quickly and efficiently, which makes it ideal for professional work or even smaller jobs at home. Furthermore, its ergonomic design helps to reduce user fatigue during long and grueling cutting sessions.

In addition, the STIHL Inc. “Caring for Nature” seal classifies this chainsaw with an environmentally conscious design, which means that it produces zero or low exhaust emissions. This excellent feature benefits those looking to balance eco-consciousness in their work and life.

Although the MS 661 R C-M may be priced a little higher than its competitors on the market, the reliability, efficiency, and performance provided justify the cost of a high-quality tool such as this one.

STIHL MS 462

Our editor’s choice is the powerful STIHL MS 462 C-M 25-inch 72.2 cc gas chainsaw. This is yet another professional-grade tool equipped for all kinds of rugged forest work and tree-cutting applications.

The MS 462 C-M stands out due to its lightweight and robust design, as well as having advanced technology to enhance its safety and performance.

This model is equipped with a 72.2 CC engine, delivering a maximum power output of 4.4 kW. It also features a 25-inch guide bar and a 3/8-inch pitch chain, making it suitable for cutting through large trees and logs, despite having lower specifications than the previous contender.

Much like the MS 661 R C-M, this chainsaw also includes STIHL’s M-Tronic ratio-adjustment technology to optimize performance in all operating conditions. Additionally, the saw features a lightweight magnesium housing, making it comfortable and easy to carry around and operate, weighing in at 13 lbs.

Furthermore, STIHL’s engine management system electronically controls the ignition timing and fuel metering, allowing for better efficiency.

There are plenty of useful features on this piece of equipment that comes in handy for tree cutting, as this saw is equipped with an anti-vibration system improving comfort and allowing you to work for extended periods.

It also features the STIHL pre-separation air filtration system to prevent debris particles from clogging the air filter prolonging the filter’s lifespan and creating a durable, long-lasting tool.

The Quickstop chain brake featured on this STIHL chainsaw is designed to stop the chain rotation abruptly if there’s any kickback with sufficient force (this can also be done manually). This is an excellent safety feature installed to protect you from any injuries.

Overall, its high-performance, lightweight design can easily cut through large trees and logs; the STIHL MS 462 C-M is worth considering for any professional.

STIHL MS 391

The STIHL MS 391 25 in. 64.1 CC gas chainsaw is a great option if you’re looking for value for money. This powerful and reliable tool by STIHL is well-suited for a range of uses, including tree cutting.

This reasonably priced chainsaw is ideal for both professional and home users and is equipped with a wide variety of features, making it one of the best options on the market.

The STIHL MS 391 chainsaw features a powerful 64.1 CC engine that delivers up to 3.3 kW of power, as well as a 25-inch guide bar and a 3/8-inch pitch chain, making it the perfect tool for cutting larger trees and logs.

Naturally, a gas-powered chainsaw is more powerful than one that uses a battery, which makes it an ideal choice for professional use and heavier jobs in a field, on a farm, or ranch – the only setback is that this makes your equipment quite heavy.

Thanks to STIHL’s careful and meticulous designs, however, this chainsaw still offers an optimized power-to-weight ratio.

The STIHL MS 391 chainsaw uses time-saving technology to boost its efficiency – meaning there’s less of a need for regular air filter cleaning. It also includes a side-access chain tensioner, making it easy to adjust the chain tension without removing the sprocket cover – an easy-to-maintain piece of equipment.

Furthermore, this chainsaw features additional tech for improved overall efficiency, which includes the STIHL’s Intellicarb compensating carburetor and a side-access chain tensioner.

Thanks to the anti-vibration system, it’s also a comfortable tool to use despite its weight and the fact that it produces less fuel emissions than other models, making it another eco-friendly STIHL option.

Although this piece of equipment is not cheap, it comes with countless features and tech making it a good value-for-money option lasting many years.

Overall, the STIHL MS 391 is a worthy model to consider if you are looking for a reliable and powerful chainsaw that can easily cut through large trees and logs.

STIHL MS 362

The STIHL MS 362 C-M 25 in. 59 CC gas chainsaw is the ideal best-seller tree-cutting saw for any tree felling, bucking, de-limbing, and thinning needs.

It uses a powerful 2-cycle engine and offers a 25-inch bar with a.325-inch pitch chain, giving it enough strength for bigger and thicker trees and logs, despite having slightly less power than other competing models.

The chainsaw comes with a decompression valve (or ‘deco valve) in the cylinder, reducing the force required to pull the starter rope and making it easier to start the engine and get to work.

The STIHL MS 362 C-M is extra lightweight, making it easier to cut neatly and it has a significant fuel capacity. This provides an excellent combination of power and fuel efficiency, making it an affordable tool to run as well.

This chainsaw uses the same M-Tronic engine technology as some of the other STIHL models, reducing exhaust fumes to make it more efficient and environmentally friendly, generally providing you with a quick and reliable piece of equipment.

It also features the same anti-vibration system and toolless fuel and oil cap, making it comfortable to use and easy to refill, essentially saving time and effort, in addition to how lightweight it already is.

While it might not have the same sleek look as its competitors, the combination of lightweight and speed gives it extra power, ensuring it’s still an excellent option for farm, ranch, and forestry workers. This tool is also ideal for use on smaller jobs or works in your backyard.

The fact that it’s so easy to use makes it an ideal option for both professionals and homeowners looking to take better care of their landscaping, as it handles trimming and pruning jobs very well.

Overall, the STIHL MS 362 C-M is worth considering if you are looking for an effective and reliable chainsaw that can cut through your trees and branches with precision and ease.

STIHL MS 311

Lastly, the STIHL MS 311 25-inch 59 CC gas chainsaw is our budget-friendly option for tree-cutting saws. This is another saw that might have a less powerful engine in terms of specs but still enough power to get the job done.

Like the MS 362 C-M, this tool is extra lightweight and has a large fuel capacity. Its power and fuel efficiency provide an excellent combination, further increasing its budget-friendly nature.

With its higher fuel economy, you’ll be able to run the equipment for a longer period of time, reducing your downtime and getting your work done faster and with less fuel wastage. Its powerful 59 CC engine also delivers up to 3.1 kW of power and is considered by STIHL to be a “high-tech workhorse.”

This tool comes with a chain bar that is big and strong enough to handle large trees and logs, making it suitable for any farm or forestry work – both small and larger professional jobs. It is also a good fit for homeowners looking to do some work in their backyards.

This is another model that also includes a decompression valve, reducing the amount of force required to pull the starter rope and adding to the comfort of the machine – it’s quick and easy to start and use, along with being light enough to hold for extended periods of time.

Its well-built and sturdy design allows it to run all day and can last you for many years. Paired with its sleek look, its durability makes it a very attractive option for professionals and less-experienced users alike.

This chainsaw features all the technology STIHL is known for – the toolless fuel and oil cap, its comfortable anti-vibration system, and the side-access chain tensioner. All these features make its user experience easier, quicker, and more comfortable.

Adding to its ease of maintenance, its reliability, affordability, and long-lasting nature make it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly yet tough tool to work with.

How to Choose the Best Chainsaw for Cutting Trees

There are a few key features that you should consider before making a purchase for a sturdy chainsaw aimed at cutting trees. Here are three of the most important features to keep in mind when buying a suitable tool for your needs:

Engine Power

The primary key factor to consider when buying a chainsaw for cutting trees is its engine power, which is usually measured in CC or cubic centimeters (referring to the size of the engine).

The bigger the engine, the more power it can produce, translating into faster and more efficient cutting. The STIHL MS 661 R C-M, equipped with a 91.1 CC engine, is the most powerful engine on our list.

It is important to remember that the more powerful an engine is, the heavier and more difficult it may be to maneuver. However, you need to consider how to maintain a balance between power and ease of use, especially in a professional setting.

Bar Length

Another vital factor is the bar length, as this metal guide holds the cutting chain, and the length of the bar indicates the size of the logs or trees that can be cut through.

A bar length of at least 18 inches is recommended for most tree-cutting applications; however, a longer bar may be required for larger trees. It is also important to keep in mind that a longer bar may make the chainsaw heavier, making it more challenging to maneuver.

Each chainsaw listed above takes a 25-inch bar, which should be sufficient for most significant tasks.

Safety Features

Finally, the most important factor to consider when buying a chainsaw for cutting trees is safety. It is important to look for safety features that can help prevent accidents, as these powerful tools can be dangerous if not used correctly.

Some common safety features to look for include anti-vibration systems that reduce operator fatigue and improve comfort during use, chain brakes that automatically stop the chain in case of kickback, and safety switches that prevent accidental startups.

Most STIHL products are designed with safety in mind, and the STIHL MS 462 C-M is particularly loaded with features for your ultimate comfort and safety during a job.

In addition to the abovementioned key features, there are several other factors to keep in mind when buying a chainsaw for cutting trees, including price, weight, and ease of use.

It’s crucial to carefully evaluate your needs and preferences before making a decision on which tool to buy to help you find a chainsaw that’s well-suited to your specific tree-cutting needs. With the right tool, you can easily and efficiently tackle even the most demanding cutting jobs.

What You Should Know About Tree Felling

Why is felling the most popular way to cut down a tree? Think about it – slicing from the top down would require a lot of work and time, and many cuts. Felling technically only requires one swift action (although the process is usually a little more complicated when performed professionally.)

If someone performs this regularly or professionally, they are called a ‘tree feller.’

READ MORE: The Top Reasons for Tree Removal

Frequently Asked Questions About Tree Felling

Is It Easy to Fell a Tree?

The process of knocking down a tree by literally making it fall over might sound straightforward. Still, there’s a lot of work and expertise that goes into a successful tree removal. After all, knocking over a tree comes with safety risks that affect surrounding people, wildlife, and properties.

What Equipment is Needed to Fell a Tree?

Tree felling isn’t a simple ‘one-and-done’ job – it requires a whole lot more than just a quick chop. That’s why it’s important to ensure that you have all the necessary gear before beginning the process.

Safety comes first – and you’ll want every bit of safety gear you can get your hands on.

Steel toe boots are a must for chopping down a tree. With sharp gear and falling tree remains, there’s plenty that can fall on your feet. You’ll need the toughest footwear around to prevent an accident.

Rugged, tough-skinned pants are also a necessity. Accidents happen to legs a lot more frequently than you’d realize.

Your hands are doing most of the work, from holding the chainsaw to grabbing tree branches and helping you climb. You should keep your hands as comfortable, functional, and protected as possible. A durable pair of gloves that still allow movement should be a must for everyone on site.

Head protection is also important – a good helmet can go a long way. This is particularly true considering that tree remains – and a whole tree itself – will be falling onto the ground.

Finally, it’s good to have eye and ear protection – these are both commonly overlooked parts of personal protection equipment.

Now that you’ve taken care of the safety aspect of your gear setup, you’ll need your tools.

There are two key tools involved in the tree felling process: an axe for chopping and a chainsaw for slicing. It may sound like you need to pick one or the other, but it’s actually beneficial to use both. For example, chopping branches is a great starting point, while the chainsaw is great for ‘the big slice’ at the end of the felling process.

How is Tree Felling Performed

The best way to chop down a tree is to commit to a step-by-step plan beforehand. This will ensure that the operation is safe and effective.

Arborists typically begin by surveying the area for potential risks – nearby structures, for example – and check to see if the tree is stable or leaning. This is important for knowing how to control the direction the tree falls in.

Arborists don’t simply let the tree fall and hope for the best. They calculate the ‘fall path’ of the tree, planning in advance where it will fall and land.

Debris near the tree – like fallen branches and logs – is removed first.

Usually, the arborist will climb up the tree and prune it, removing some of the branches, but still keeping a few up to ensure that the tree is stable. The arborist may perform a few chops at the top, but this is usually not necessary.

Then, the big chop is made. This is usually started with a notch cut at a 70-degree angle – it is cut at the side of the tree that will hit the ground. Then, a horizontal incision is made about a third into the tree. Next, a bore cut – or, a cut made with the tip of the chainsaw’s blade – is made into the other side of the tree. At this point, the tree should not have fallen yet.

Next, some small cuts or hammer wedges should be inserted into the ‘wound’ left by the bore cut.

At this point, the final cut can be made. This should be done from the opposite end of the first notch. Then, the tree will fall!

READ MORE: How to Prepare For Your Emergency Tree Removal Appointment

Where Should I Stand When The Tree Falls?

You should be as far away from the tree as possible – and especially steer clear of the landing area. We recommend getting at least 15 feet away, if possible.

When in Doubt, Call Green Thumb

Tree felling is an important procedure that requires thoughtful planning and action. It’s recommend that most tree owners seek help from a professional tree removal service.

At Green Thumb, our team of tree specialists has dealt with every kind of tree – and we can help ensure that your felling experience is simple and stress-free.