Dropping a very big tree Question

[user 122190]

I have some concerns, that I'd like to hear some cautionary experiences.

Tree is close to 36" dia at the base, near the road, level ground, etc. Good!

But, it is in really moist soil. So moist that I was able push much smaller healthy trees over. In fact there are even larger trees that have fallen in years past, and the roots are huge. Soil encrusted roots span 10' in diameter or maybe larger. I'm on guard thinking that as the tree begins its fall that it will pull the roots out and possible create a dangerous situation. I plan to run like a little chicken from an axe wielding grandma on a Sunday afternoon.

I'm guessing there is 2+ cords of firewood, maybe even 3 cords. Only other question is the quality of the logs within. I guess I'll find out tomorrow morning.

 

[Westboastfaller]

So you need to finish your back cut at the back

 

[Ryan'smilling]

Bore cut, make your hinge and leave a trigger. Tap in a couple wedges while you're on your way back there.

 

[user 122190]

I've been meaning to try a bore cut and create a trigger. I usually see this for leaning trees, but perhaps it is for all large and suspected dangerous trees?

 

[turnkey4099]

I don't see any problem with it pulling the roots, breaking the hinge will take less force than uprooting the stump.

 

[DSW]

Some people bore cut about everything, I'd say it's best use is for forward leaning trees. I also believe the hinge would go before the thing uproots itself. My concern is if you're not used to using a bore cut and the first time is on a tree that makes you nervous it's not going to be an enjoyable experience. The fact that it's big, makes it even worse.

 

[Ryan'smilling]

I would agree with DSW, that ideally you would practice using the bore technique before trying it on a large tree like that.

 

[svk]

Be safe and if in doubt don't cut it.

 

[tnflatbed]

I don't see any problem with it pulling the roots, breaking the hinge will take less force than uprooting the stump.

I agree with turnkey, If its 36" dbh It has to have fairly good roots moist soil or not

 

[NW Wi]

I have some concerns, that I'd like to hear some cautionary experiences.

Tree is close to 36" dia at the base, near the road, level ground, etc. Good!

But, it is in really moist soil. So moist that I was able push much smaller healthy trees over. In fact there are even larger trees that have fallen in years past, and the roots are huge. Soil encrusted roots span 10' in diameter or maybe larger. I'm on guard thinking that as the tree begins its fall that it will pull the roots out and possible create a dangerous situation. I plan to run like a little chicken from an axe wielding grandma on a Sunday afternoon.

I'm guessing there is 2+ cords of firewood, maybe even 3 cords. Only other question is the quality of the logs within. I guess I'll find out tomorrow morning.

Sounds like you are done with it by now. Agree with the bore cut method. I bore cut just about everything. Controlled way to do it. Learned from some chainsaw training I've had. Another good source is youtube "bc felling standard " many good videos with perfect technique.

 

[user 122190]

Delayed till Wednesday. Heavy rains yesterday. Need things to dry out some first.

 

[unclemoustache]

I have some concerns, that I'd like to hear some cautionary experiences.

Tree is close to 36" dia at the base, near the road, level ground, etc. Good!

But, it is in really moist soil. So moist that I was able push much smaller healthy trees over. In fact there are even larger trees that have fallen in years past, and the roots are huge. Soil encrusted roots span 10' in diameter or maybe larger. I'm on guard thinking that as the tree begins its fall that it will pull the roots out and possible create a dangerous situation. I plan to run like a little chicken from an axe wielding grandma on a Sunday afternoon.

I'm guessing there is 2+ cords of firewood, maybe even 3 cords. Only other question is the quality of the logs within. I guess I'll find out tomorrow morning.

So what is the question???

And in MT, there is no such thing as moist soil with the rainfall you get there. I'd be willing to bet the roots have gone deep to get water unless it's right near a stream.

And be sure you get pics, and video if you can. And don't worry about 'running like a chicken.' That's the wise thing to do.

 

[DSW]

I have no problem with running like a chicken if everything possible was done to make it a safe drop.

 

[chucker]

if you are felling in the direction of the lean, there is compression on that side(in the face cut side). after the face is established the tree will automatically want to lean even more to the leaning direction from the leaning force material being removed! from here on the safest operation method with out seeing the tree would be a bore through the trunk parallel to the face cut leaving a 2" to a 3" hinge. from here on out there is only one direction it will go ("IF" everything is perfect)? the bore cut can be done along with the release of the expansion wood(holding wood) in the same movement "IF" you feel safe enough to let it go ? release can be done from the center out or from the back cut ! heavy into the lean and a back cut is the preferred method I chose while watching the holding material go from new to older/tougher fiber wood! waiting from the bore cut/inside out will at times leave you in a mistrusting feel as the final snap comes in a flash!! in many cases leaving you with a "PUCKERED FEELING AN EXPRESSION SOON NOT TO FORGET"! when in doubt, let someone else figure it out.

 

[Gypo Logger]

The biggest concern is not to leave a dutchman, which makes for impossible wedging and the possibility of barberchair.

 

[Trx250r180]

Is this a pine or a fir tree ?

 

[chucker]

The biggest concern is not to leave a dutchman, which makes for impossible wedging and the possibility of barberchair.

!! any leaner or heavy leaner is prone to become a barber chair, or at least a hair raiser!! more so on a shaved or bald head... lol

 

[cat10ken]

You say the tree is 36" in diameter, how long is your bar? If bore cutting you'll have to go at it from both sides and match up your cuts; not real easy to do.

 

[rarefish383]

I can't believe no one said to put a tag line in it. Unless I missed it. I put a tag line in virtually every tree I drop. You never know what is, or is not, in the center. Cheap insurance, Joe.

 

[bikemike]

Is this a pine or a fir tree ?

It's cord wood lol