There are different types of saws out there, but a pole saw is a versatile one. If you are using this for the first time, it might be quite risky for you to operate this equipment without having proper knowledge about pole saw cutting techniques. It might lead you to unwanted accidents and injuries. Luckily you are on the right page! This article is here to enlighten you with some of the critical techniques of cutting branches using a pole saw.
11 Useful Pole Saw Cutting Techniques
1. Pick out the best pole saw
Finding out the best pole saw is the key to ace your trimming game. There are tons of choices available in the market for pole saws. Based on the height and the weight of your tress, you will require an appropriate pole saw.
Lightweight saws are suggested to use as it will make your job easier to accomplish. Again it will be easier for you to carry those types of the pole saw.
2. Prepare yourself
Before you operate a pole saw, get geared up to fight any unwanted accidents. Make sure that you are wearing gloves, hard hats, work boots, and goggles to protect your eyes. Also, clear your workspace. Make sure to keep it neat and clean before you start cutting the branches. Keep other people away while you are working.
3. Check the pole saw
Our article of pole saw cutting techniques would remain incomplete without this step. Before you start to work with a pole saw, inspect it accurately.
Check whether it is in a working condition or not! Look for damages and make sure that the chain is tight enough. Lubricating the chain of a pole saw before each use may help you to get the best result.
4. Grip the saw carefully
You must have to hold the pole saw firmly with two hands. It is a piece of long equipment, and if it is not maintained correctly, accidents may occur. Try to hold it at the balance point to have a secure grip.
5. Position yourself
Try to stand appropriately and firmly while you are working with a pole saw. It is a risky job as the blade is involved. So it is necessary to maintain a good posture.
Else it might lead you to undesirable injuries. Make sure to hold the handle of the pole saw below the level of your shoulder.
6. Keep branch collars intact
The branch collar is the defense system of a tree that helps to carry the weight of lateral branches. Cutting the branch collar may damage the structure of the tress. It will also expose the tress to diseases or insects. So before trimming the branches, spot the branch collar of your tree and keep it intact.
Cutting the branch collar might kill the tree. If you are not able to trace where the branch collar of your tree is, study about the species of your tree. You can also look into the internet for this.
7. Turing the pole saw on
Now turn on your pole saw. After turning it on, do not rush! Wait for a moment and give it time so that it can spin at its highest speed. Else you can ruin your job, even before starting.
8. Cutting the branches
In the beginning, make a small cut from the below of a branch. Then cut it from the above, slightly closer to the trunk. If the branch is massive and large enough, you should avoid cutting this in one shot. Complete the task with preliminary cuts.
It will make your task easier by allowing you to have more control over your job and the pole saw. It is a good practice. It is also a good thing to stand on the opposite side of the tree while cutting branches. Always start with the lower branches of a tree for working in an organized way.
9. Take a break between strokes
It is annoying and tiring to work in a locked body position. This job requires both physical strength and concentration. Carrying the weight of the pole saw continuously can tire you. As a result, you will lose your focus. It might be harmful to you and can cause damage.
You will lose control over your job and the equipment as well. So take a break between strokes to work appropriately with full of your attention.
10. Finish your job
After cutting each of the branches, move your pole saw away and wait. Give time to the branches to fall on the ground. Once you are done with your task, keep the pole saw at a safer place. Please keep it away from children.
11. Few essential tips to remember
While working, the saw might get caught in branches. Do not panic. Turn the motor off. Lift the remaining limb from the saw to dislodge the chain of your pole saw. It is the best way to solve this problem. If your job is quite long and you have to trim down a lot of trees, you can combine the use of both the automatic pole saw and manual pole saw.
Manual pole saw are great for cutting down for larger branches. Again automated pole saw saves time. Based on your job and budget, you can consider combining different types of pole saws to get the best result. If it is your first time using a pole saw, I would suggest you have an expert beside you to trace out your mistakes.
Final thoughts
A pole saw is a must-have item. It is an excellent tool and easy to use once you know the basics. Cutting branches using a pole saw might seem complicated at the beginning. But once you get the fundamental ideas about pole saw cutting techniques, it will become a piece of cake for you. Just follow the above-given instructions properly, and you are good to go. Remember, expertise demand practice!
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This is me Sonnet. I manage a full-time workshop for my clients’ woodworking projects. From a very young age, I’ve been always passionate about DIY projects. And that’s the reason I’m amicable with the woodworking tools. I’m regularly handling a couple of projects like cabinets, furniture, boats, and many more using wood, veneers, and laminates.