Cutting down trees can be a daunting task for any homeowner. Having the right tools makes the job safer and easier. In this comprehensive guide, we will look at the most common and effective tools used by professionals for tree removal.
Overview of Tree Cutting Tools
To cut down trees, you need special tools that can handle branches, trunks, and other debris. Here are the main categories:
- Hand tools – Non-powered saws, axes and wedges for smaller tasks
- Power tools – Chainsaws, pole saws and chippers to fell trees
- Safety gear – Protective clothing and accessories
- Rigging supplies – Ropes, straps and pulleys for climbing and felling
Whether trimming a sapling or taking down a mature oak, having the proper tree cutting tools is essential. Now let’s explore popular options in more detail.
Hand Tools for Tree Cutting
Hand Saws
Hand saws with teeth work well for cutting branches up to 6 inches thick. Models with curved or folding blades let people with long limbs reach further. Brands of good quality, like Silky and Samurai, have very sharp teeth that cut through wood easily.
Axes
Axes make quick work of notching tree trunks to control the direction of fall. The two main types are felling axes to chop large trunks and hatchets for increased leverage on smaller trees. Keep axes razor sharp for best and safest performance.
Wedges
Wedges driven into the trunk notch help guide the tree’s fall Plastic and magnesium wedges are lightweight, Steel wedges have more driving force for big trees, Using multiple wedges gives better control,
Gas and Electric Power Tools
Once limbs are cleared, power tools take over felling the main trunk
Chainsaws
Chainsaws are the fastest cutting tool for tree removal. Their teeth and chains can tear through trees that are more than 3 feet wide. Gas and electric models from Husqvarna, Echo, and Stihl are tough enough to use every day.
Pole Saws
Pole saws allow cutting high branches from the ground. An aluminum or fiberglass pole that can be extended up to 15 feet long holds a chainsaw or pruning blade. This provides a safe option versus climbing.
Wood Chippers
After a tree is felled, chippers shred it into mulch. Feed whole branches into the chute and the motorized blades chew them up. Gas chippers handle high volumes while electric ones are good for smaller jobs.
Rigging Equipment
For climbing and removing large trees, rigging equipment is essential for safety and efficiency. This includes:
- Ropes, straps and pulleys
- Climbing saddle and spikes
- Chainsaw winch or cable hoist
- Rigging plates and carabiners
- Chainsaw muffler and blade scabbard
Rigging allows arborists to dismantle tall trees from the top down in a controlled manner. Always use proper climbing techniques and protective gear.
Safety Gear
Chainsaws and chippers have fast moving parts that can cause severe injuries. Protect yourself with:
- Helmet – Protects from falling debris. Look for ANSI or CE ratings.
- Face shield – Prevents facial injuries from wood chips and sawdust.
- Hearing protection – Chainsaws and chippers are very loud.
- Chainsaw chaps – Made of cut-resistant fibers to protect legs.
- Gloves – Improve grip and prevent splinters.
- Steel-toe boots – Protect feet from sharp tools and heavy branches.
- First aid kit – For treating any minor injuries.
Choosing the Right Tree Cutting Tools
Selecting proper tree cutting tools depends on several factors:
- Tree size – Hand tools for smaller trees, power for larger
- Location – Electric for easy sites, gas for remote areas
- Budget – Professional gear costs more but lasts longer
- Experience level – Match tools to your skill and comfort level
Regardless of whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, the right tree cutting tools vastly improve efficiency, safety and results. With this guide, you can confidently assemble an arsenal of equipment to take on tree removal projects.
Felling trees is complicated, high-stakes work. Using improper techniques or tools can lead to expensive damage or serious injuries. We recommend contacting a professional arborist service that has extensive training and expertise. For smaller DIY jobs, choose the right tools for the task and always exercise extreme caution when cutting trees yourself. With the proper preparedness and precautions, you will be equipped to tackle tree removals successfully.
Why Would You Need to Cut a Tree?
If you have trees in your yard, its critical to control them. To cut back overgrown branches, use hand shears. If things get out of hand, use gas-powered tools and extension poles.
You may need tree trimming if your plant has grown over a property line or become dangerous. Trimming can also help fruit trees flourish.
Trimming is a normal part of owning a tree. You should have every tool you need to make the process as simple as possible when it becomes necessary.
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FAQ
What tool is used to cut a tree?
A chainsaw is the best tool for cutting tree branches or trunks. So, they can be used for trimming back tree branches, trimming large hedges or for intensive felling. There are also pruning tools to cut tall branches, called pole chainsaws or pole saws, which have a small chainsaw at the end of a long pole.
What is a tree cutter tool called?
Hand Shears—These scissors-like tools are the first thing you need to start trimming plants and trees. They are also known as pruners, pruning shears, and hand pruners. Apr 21, 2022.
What tools are used to remove trees?
Axes are one of the oldest and most trusted tools for removing trees because of their sharpness, precision, and ease of use. Axes have a small handle, making them easy to grip and maneuver. An axe with two sides is great for cutting down trees, and a pickaxe can help pull tree roots out of the ground.
What is a tree felling machine called?
A tree care handler, sometimes also called a felling crane or felling machine, is an excavator equipped with a telescopic boom.