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The Top Cut

The top cut is the first of two cuts that result in a V-shaped notch.  The notch is made on the side of the tree that you want it to fall.
The Correct Cut
1. Starting Point
I
mportant -- begin at any height as long as you allow enough room for the undercut
2. Angle of Attack
Important -- cut downward at an angle of 70 degrees
3. Ending Point
Stop when the cut reaches ¼ to 1/3 of the trunk's diameter or when the cut reaches 80% of the tree's diameter at chest level
Top Cut
cross-section
A Common Incorrect Cut
Cut-bad-1 Cut-bad-2

Here the top cut is not steep enough . . .

. . . resulting in a notch of less than 70 degrees.

Continue with Lesson 4 Continue with Lesson 4

 

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