Pruning; Felling - Stihl MS 462 C-M Instruction Manual

7 Proper Techniques for Basic Bucking, Limbing, Pruning and Felling
When limbing:
► Rest the chain saw on the log.
► Stand on the side of the log opposite the limb to be cut if
it can be done safely.
► Push the guide bar at full throttle with a hinge motion
against the branch.
► Cut the branch with the top or the bottom side of the guide
bar, keeping the tip of the bar free of the log, the ground,
other limbs and any leafy materials.
7.4

Pruning

Pruning is selectively removing branches from a standing
tree.
WARNING
￭ To reduce the risk of injury from loss of control:
– Do not use the chain saw one-handed.
– Never work on a ladder, on a roof, in a tree or while
standing on any other insecure support.
– Never operate the chain saw above shoulder height
or cut overhead.
– Do not overreach.
– If you are unable to follow these instructions, you
must use a different tool, such as a pole pruner, or
have the work performed by a reputable tree service.
0458-790-8221-A
￭ To reduce the risk of injury:
– Never stand directly underneath the branch you are
cutting.
– Watch for falling branches. As soon as the branch
starts to fall, step aside and keep a sufficient
distance away from the falling wood. A branch may
spring back at you after it hits the ground.
– Prior to beginning work, clear the work area of limbs
and brush to reduce the risk of tripping and losing
control of the chain saw.
To cut branches from a standing tree:
1
► Make the first cut (1) on the underside of the branch,
approximately 2 in. (5 cm) from the trunk. Cut through
approximately 1/4 of the diameter of the branch. This will
help prevent the branch from splintering after it is cut.
► Make the second cut (2) on the top side of the branch,
approximately 2 in. (5 cm) from the first cut.
► As soon as the branch starts to fall, withdraw the chain
saw and let the branch fall to the ground.
7.5

Felling

7.5.1 Felling Conditions
Felling is cutting down a tree. Before felling a tree, carefully
consider all of the conditions that may affect the direction of
fall.
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