Does Hinge Cutting Help With Natural Cover During Ruts?

Understanding Hinge Cutting

Hinge cutting is a deer management technique used to create a controlled, natural-looking gap in a dense thicket of vegetation. This gap is created by cutting the vegetation on one side of a stem, allowing it to fall naturally while leaving the other side intact. By doing so, hunters can create a “hinge” that will eventually open up, allowing them to pass through undetected.

Applying Hinge Cutting to Rutting Deer

When it comes to hunting during the rut, hinge cutting can be a valuable tool for creating natural cover. By creating a series of hinge cuts throughout a thicket, hunters can create a network of natural-looking pathways that deer will be less likely to associate with human activity. For example, a series of 6-8 hinge cuts spaced 10-15 feet apart can create a natural-looking “funnel” that deer will be more likely to use, allowing hunters to move undetected through the area. By timing the hinge cuts correctly, hunters can also create a “window” of natural cover that will open up just as the deer are moving through the area, increasing the chances of a successful shot.

Tips for Effective Hinge Cutting

When hinge cutting, it’s essential to use the right tools and techniques to avoid alerting deer to human activity. A good pair of loppers or pruning saws can be used to make clean cuts, while a machete or bow saw can be used to cut thicker stems. Hunters should also aim to make their cuts just before the peak of the rut, when deer are most active, and space their cuts 10-15 feet apart to create a natural-looking network of pathways. By following these tips and timing their hinge cuts correctly, hunters can create natural cover that will give them a significant advantage during the rut.