15
BUCKING: PROCEDURE
Cutting Logs Under Stress
When logs are supported on one or both ends, the wood tends to
bend during the cutting process. This can cause the chain saw to
become pinched between the two sides. Pay extra attention.
1. Make the first cut approximately 1/3 the diameter of the log. Do
not cut deeper than 1/3.
• If the log is supported on one end (Fig. 17), make the first cut
from below (underbucking). Refer to
Underbucking
.
• If the log is supported on two ends (Fig. 18), make the first cut
from above (overbucking). Refer to
Overbucking
.
2. Make the second cut from the opposite side until the two cuts
meet. If the diameter of the wood is large enough, insert soft plastic
or wooden wedges to hold the cut open and prevent pinching (Fig.
21). Take care not to touch the wedges with the saw chain.
Cutting Fully-Supported Logs
When logs are supported along the entire length, extra care should
be taken to make sure the saw chain does not contact the ground
or other support structure (Fig. 19).
1. Cut through the log as much as possible, without cutting into the
ground or support structure. Cut from above (overbucking).
Refer to
Overbucking
.
2. Roll the log over and finish cutting through the log from above
(overbucking).
BUCKING: SAFETY
Bucking is the process of cutting a fallen tree into logs of desired
lengths. Follow these safety precautions to reduce the risk of
serious injury:
•
Clear the area of objects or obstructions that could contact the
guide bar and result in kickback.
•
When bucking on a slope, always stand on the uphill side of the
fallen tree.
•
If possible, the end of the tree to be cut should be raised off of
the ground. A saw horse is ideal for this purpose. If a saw horse
is not available, use other logs or any remaining limb stumps.
Make sure the tree if firmly supported.
•
Do not let the saw chain contact the ground or saw horse.
•
Cut one log at a time. Release the throttle control and allow the
saw chain to come to a complete stop before moving on to the
next log.
•
Keep feet and all other body parts clear of falling logs.
DANGER:
Use extreme caution when cutting a fallen
tree that is still attached to the root structure. When the
trunk is separated from the roots, the stump has a high
potential for rocking back into the hole created by the
roots. This can result in serious injury or death. Never
stand in the hole left by the roots. Never allow others to
stand near the root structure.
Fig. 17
Log Supported
on One End
First Cut (1/3 Diameter)
Fig. 18
Second Cut
Load
Fig. 19
Overbucking
Fig. 20
Underbucking
Log Supported
Two Ends
First Cut (1/3 Diameter)
Second Cut
Load
Summary of Contents for RM4218
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