- 1). Assess the area around the tree you want to cut down. Are there any obstructions like fences, sheds or other things you do not want the tree to fall on?
- 2). Pick a general direction away from these obstructions in which you want the tree to fall and site down that line as far as the tree is tall. Then stick a large stake in the ground to mark this line. This will be a preliminary mark.
- 3). Step back behind the tree, siting it until the stake is completely behind the tree. Then hold a pendulum weight (a simple string with weight on the end will do) in front of you so it aligns with the tree. Note if the tree slants to one side of the string, which means it has a natural lean toward this direction. Move all the way around the tree repeating this, until you understand the natural lean of the tree on all sides.
- 4). Make a final determination of where you want to make your cut, taking into account the lean sitings you just took. Make your first cut directly in line with the established fall line, on the side closest to the direction you want it to fall.
- 5). Cut into the tree on a diagonal line parallel to the ground less than halfway into the tree trunk, but more than a quarter of the way in. Then make another straight cut below this diagonal cut, to intersect with it, creating a notch. Pull out the notch, using an axe if necessary.
- 6). Move around to the other side of the tree directly behind the fall line, and test it by pushing on the tree above and behind the notch. It should sway toward the fall line slightly.
- 7). Cut into the tree directly behind the notch. Cut at a slight, very small downward angle keeping the chainsaw parallel to the ground. Cut until you get a quarter of the way into the tree trunk, then make sure the tree is still leaning toward the fall line.
- 8). Continue your cut through the trunk until the tree begins to fall.
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