How to cut a large tree which is hung up at a 45 degree angle on another tree

Question

There's a large tree (about 24 inches diameter) that fell in the woods a few years ago. Its hung up on another large tree at about a 45 degree angle. The first 10 feet or so of the tree is flat on the ground, then it angles up at a 45 degree angle from there.

What is the best way to go about cutting down the fallen tree? Its on the edge of the woods, so its rather unsightly. If it was deeper in the woods, I would let it be.

Yes, I do have a chainsaw and am moderately experienced at using it.

Thanks.

Answer 1

I worked for a logger in Virginia and my boss called those "widow makers"and would also call you some things I can't get by Yahoos censors if you were the one who cut it. If it was a windfall we used a "skidder" with a long cable to pull it where you wanted it to go. When doing it on my own (always have someone around to call 911 or drive you to the ER) we would attach a heavy rope to an adjacent tree to keep it from chasing you down. Be careful of dead trees they can break when you don't expect it and throw a 200lb branch a hundred feet. Another option is to hire it done but ask to see a copy of his insurance.  RScott

Answer 2

RScott is absolutely right.  I worked as a logger for many years and this in NOT a job for a person who has to ask how to do it.  When you cut that tree off as suggested by another guy it can go any one of several directions and sometimes with tremendous force.  A 24 inch diameter tree is d... heavy.  And if it fell over a "few" years ago you have no idea how much or where there may be rot.  If you do manage to saw the tree off without killing yourself or your saw, you still have not put the top on the ground.  Either get the equipment to pull it down or get a professional to help out.  

Answer 3

I have 44 acres of woods and have cut down many difficult trees.  This one sounds dangerous because of the angle and the weight.  

If the first ten feet is already laying on the ground I would hook up a strong rope or chain ( longer than the height of the tree ) to the upright trunk and pull it down to the ground with a truck or tractor.

The top of the tree can snap in half and fall back towards you so make sure that you are well out of the way.

You are better off to cut this one up on the ground.

Once it is on the ground, keep in mind the weight of the tree on the limbs that you are cutting and always expect the unexpected rolls and snaps.  Cut off the upright limbs first to remove some weight and work your way down.  Keep your work area clear.  Leave yourself room to run.

PS

DO NOT TRY THIS ALONE !!!!.  

Answer 4

I would start by limb it out as far as I could reach. Clearing as I went till I got to the point where all that was left was the trunk. Cut and drag all the stuff out I could while the tree was supported off the ground. Then cut the trunk from the top down about a third of the way take the saw out and cut from the bottom up till it falls. Continue on till it is all cut up. This is dangerous and get some help don't let the tree pinch the saw bar or hit you when it falls. On something like this I always where my chain saw chaps.