Quick Answer
Felling involves cutting down a tree, typically with a chainsaw, to separate it from its base, while bucking involves cutting the felled tree into manageable sections, usually for splitting and processing into firewood.
Understanding Felling Techniques
When felling a tree, proper technique is crucial to ensure safe and controlled cutting. A good felling cut should be made 1/3 to 1/2 of the way through the trunk, on the side of the lean, or the direction the tree is naturally leaning. This helps to direct the tree’s fall, reducing the risk of it toppling unpredictably. Always check for knots, decay, or other defects in the tree before making the cut, as these can cause the tree to split or break apart unexpectedly.
Bucking and Splitting Techniques
Once a tree is felled, bucking involves cutting it into sections of manageable size, usually around 16 to 20 inches in length. This helps to reduce the weight and size of the wood, making it easier to split and process into firewood. When bucking, aim to cut as close to the ground as possible, using a chainsaw with a sharp chain and a steady, controlled motion. For splitting, a maul or splitting axe can be used to drive a wedge into the wood, creating a split along the grain. This helps to break the wood into smaller pieces, releasing its BTU content for burning.
Considerations by Tree Species
Different tree species have varying BTU contents, which affect their burning efficiency and heat output. For example, hardwoods like oak and maple contain around 20-25 million BTUs per cord, while softwoods like pine and spruce contain around 15-20 million BTUs per cord. When bucking and splitting, it’s essential to consider the specific characteristics of the tree species, as some may be more prone to splitting or have a higher BTU content than others.
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