? about hinge cutting

[TNCharlie]

I have some trees that are getting big enough to start shading out the undergrowth. Occasionally I will cut one down to let in some sunlight. But I would like to get more aggressive with this. I think hinge cutting is what I want to do.

How do you make a hinge cut? When I cut a tree, it always falls off the stump. Is there a technique that allows the tree to just bend over (hinge)? From what I read, that is better than letting the tree fall flat because it creates sheltered space as well as providing support for honeysuckle and other climbing plants.

And is it okay to let the cut trees overlap? I could create some pretty big brush piles by doing that.

 

[String Music]

The best way to do it is to take your chainsaw and make a cut in the center of tree so that you have a slit. Then you just cut from one side of the tree till you reach the slit. The tree should fall over and still stay attached. Kinda complicated to explain so I would google it and get pics

 

[BSK]

The best way to do it is to take your chainsaw and make a cut in the center of tree so that you have a slit. Then you just cut from one side of the tree till you reach the slit. The tree should fall over and still stay attached. Kinda complicated to explain so I would google it and get pics

That technique is detailed in the last issue of Quality Whitetails. Just remember that using the nose of a chainsaw to cut into a tree is a dangerous proposition. It can easily kick back on you.

 

[BSK]

How do you make a hinge cut? When I cut a tree, it always falls off the stump. Is there a technique that allows the tree to just bend over (hinge)? From what I read, that is better than letting the tree fall flat because it creates sheltered space as well as providing support for honeysuckle and other climbing plants.

I find that the time of year you cut the trees makes a big difference. In mid-spring, after the trees have begun to leave-out, they have enough water in the trunk to bend instead of snap-off.

And is it okay to let the cut trees overlap? I could create some pretty big brush piles by doing that.

You bet. You want to create a "jungle" of regrowth.

 

[TNCharlie]

I find that the time of year you cut the trees makes a big difference. In mid-spring, after the trees have begun to leave-out, they have enough water in the trunk to bend instead of snap-off.

Ah-AH! That may be the tip I needed. I usually cut trees in the winter. I hadn't thought about the water/sap thing related to whether the tree snaps off or bends. But makes perfect sense. I'm gonna give that a try very soon. Thanks!