Which cut is used to guide the tree's fall in a proper felling sequence?

Which cut is used to guide the tree's fall in a proper felling sequence?

• A. Back cut
• B. Direction notch (face cut) to guide the fall
• C. Chop across the trunk
• D. Leaves removal prior to cutting

Answer: (B)

The directional notch, or face cut, is used to guide the tree’s fall. This cut is made on the side of the trunk toward where you want the tree to fall, creating a controlled opening and a hinge on the opposite side. When you then complete the back cut, the hinge holds the tree and directs its fall along the intended path rather than letting it grab and kick unpredictably. Think of the notch as the steering guide that sets the direction, while the back cut releases the tree with that hinge in place. The depth and angle of the notch help ensure a clean hinge and predictable direction; leaves removal beforehand doesn’t influence how the tree falls, and chopping across the trunk isn’t a proper or safe method for guiding a fall.

The directional notch, or face cut, is used to guide the tree’s fall. This cut is made on the side of the trunk toward where you want the tree to fall, creating a controlled opening and a hinge on the opposite side. When you then complete the back cut, the hinge holds the tree and directs its fall along the intended path rather than letting it grab and kick unpredictably. Think of the notch as the steering guide that sets the direction, while the back cut releases the tree with that hinge in place. The depth and angle of the notch help ensure a clean hinge and predictable direction; leaves removal beforehand doesn’t influence how the tree falls, and chopping across the trunk isn’t a proper or safe method for guiding a fall.