The wedge is one of the most underused tools for felling trees
This accessory is inexpensive and easy to use. Wedges keep the guide bar from getting pinched while cutting, guide the tree as it falls, and are ideal for freeing a guide bar that has been pinched by
compression.
New wedges are made from a very tough plastic blend that delivers excellent results and will not damage the chain or cutters if they accidentally come into contact with it. When a wedge becomes deformed or worn, it should be replaced to prevent injuries caused by small plastic fragments flying through the air. When cutting wood or felling trees, always wear safety glasses and all the
required PPE (personal protective equipment). Felling or bucking wedges are not designed or suitable for cutting firewood.
There are two types of wedges:
- Bucking wedge - Also called a summer wedge, this wedge is smooth on both sides so it can be easily removed from a saw kerf after use.
- Felling wedge - Also called a winter wedge, this wedge has a textured surface with protrusions called “dogs,” probably because they bite into the stump. The wedge is placed in the felling cut to prevent the tree from leaning slightly backward and help it start to fall using the mechanical advantage of leverage.
The bucking wedge is placed in a saw kerf in the compression zone of the log.
The operator must make a kerf deep enough to insert the wedge without it coming into contact
with the saw chain. The wedge is installed and driven in with the back of an axe, but a hammer will also do the job. Once the wedge is in place, you can finish the cut without risking the guide bar getting pinched, because the wedge prevents the kerf from closing under compression. They are very useful when bucking large trees.
The felling wedge is inserted into the felling cut in the same way as the bucking wedge. Once the desired hinge thickness has been reached, remove the saw and engage the chain brake. Then, drive the felling wedge into the kerf, creating the mechanical advantage of leverage that moves or “pushes” the upper part of the tree. The tree’s center of gravity shifts past its balance point, allowing gravity to finish the job. Remember that when felling a tree, the felling wedge’s “dogs” must face down into the cut.
Finally, if your saw gets pinched accidentally, use your wedge; either type will work. Insert the wedge as far as possible into the compressed section and start driving it in. Once the wedge is in place, continue driving it in with your axe until the kerf is open enough to remove the guide bar easily.
Felling and bucking wedges are readily available from your STIHL dealer and come in
different lengths for trees and logs of all diameters.
One last important thing to remember: in most jurisdictions, regulations require all workers to have wedges on hand when felling trees. Professional forestry workers and hand fallers often use belts with pockets and loops. This allows them to carry wedges, an axe, and many other accessories, such as a first-aid kit and sharpening and maintenance tools, without any trouble.
Article by: Dwayne Neustaeter Sr.
Arboriculture Canada
www.arborcanada.com
(website in English)