How to cut down a leaning tree, 🚧 DISCLAIMER,, BACK CUT FIRST .

🚧DISCLAIMER🚧 this technique is not for the beginner saw man. And not recommended around structures.

[@beliddel]

The commentary is appreciated. Together with the multiple angles makes it an extremely educational video for folks. Would be interested to see a similar video using bore cutting technique on a back leaner, and then chat about the pros and cons of each method. Top notch, well executed video…..keep ‘em coming!

[@xicocunha4160]

Couldn't agree more!

[@brettblack7049]

I liked the voice over too. What application would you use a bore cut on a back leaner. I use them in conjunction with a step cut and equipment(usually the skidding winch on my tractor) to pull them against their lean. Typically a bore is used in conjunction with trigger on a hard leaner not a back leaner. On a back leaner you could use a "T" back cut with a bore underneath and a steel wedge to break the holding wood between similar to how guys do a tongue and groove cut. Hope you're having a great week :).

[@beliddel]

@@brettblack7049 Yes boring is mainly for foreword leaners, but I've frequently used bore cuts on back leaners and sometimes those w/ side lean, but not HEAVY leaners, especially any w/ back lean beyond 5 degrees. As with a tree w/out lean or where you can't tell how much or what direction the lean is, I usually use a "safe corner", "Danish pie" or "quarter" bore cut method and insert wedge(s) after cutting one side before cutting on the other. This will leave a small strap or chunk in the back to hold the tree, which is then released from behind and then start banging wedge(s). If bar can cut completely through the trunk, then I do the bore, shore up hinge, then work backward to establish 1-2" of back strap, pound in wedge or two on one or both sides of the bore cut forward of the back strap (but don't sink em too much to compromise the strap), then release the strap from behind and start whacking. Another version of this is the swing bore cut where the back strap is favored on the half you're cutting from.

[@brettblack7049]

@@beliddel that makes sense, as I know in the falling industry many places bore cuts are required. I'm glad doing tree work and firewood noone tells me I have to use a particular technique, that being said I still enjoy learning all I can. I'm not familiar with swing bore, is it basically a trigger offset to one side to assist in the initial canopy movement using a wedge shaped hinge?

[@beliddel]

@@brettblack7049 Hi Brett, the swing bore cut isn't necessarily used w/ a tapered hinge, although it could be. The real advantage of that over using the conventional approach to doing the back cut w/ boring is when you have one very bad side of the trunk (e.g. due to widow makers, topography or something physical preventing working from that side). To completely avoid the "bad" side, and especially when wedging might still be necessary, swinging the bore cut offsets the back strap/holding wood to the side you're working on but still gives the option to insert wedge(s) at or near the back of the stump if needed/desired. I'll bet someone has posted illustration of the swing cut approach somewhere. I was taught the technique and started using it about 15 years ago. To be honest I only use it when necessary, so not that often. Like Buckin' has said....don't over complicate things, but it's still good to know all the ways to skin the proverbial cat because sometimes those other methods actually are the best in some scenarios....but obviously some just come down to preference. We are certainly trained differently on what the "best" methods are out east compared to out west. Thanks for the question....it's wonderful to chat w/ folks who have a passion for woodsmanship and want to learn. No doubt I could probably learn a thing or two from you too. Happy cuttin'

[@joep610]

This is an awesome demonstration of the use of wedges and how much the tree can be moved. I really liked the "crown view" while you were driving the wedges, showing the movement of the tree. Love your videos, I've learned so much from your videos. Primarily... patience and not rushing the cut... Thanks Buckin'

[@191...79]

Personally, being new to tree work. I like the voice-over. Having the work and techniques being performed and discussing it in real time is information and knowledge that is easier to comprehend and absorb.

[@coreyfotre1968]

I was gonna comment exactly this

[@TheBabblingFerret]

Same here. I’ve been watching the channel since quite a while back and Buckin’ gives some excellent instruction from sharpening to felling. I like the talk over. Also, short, to the point instruction. Bang on!! 🤙🏻😄

[@mjhurley1987]

Back cut first was the phrase that first made me click on one of your videos, and I’ve learned heaps since. Thank you from Australia.

[@stevencrisci2989]

Voice over? "yes" ..can watch you make youre cuts n explain as you do so..then play it back n do voice over..👍beleive it or not somthing about the fast forward play of making cuts seemed to simplify it..so its like getting n seeing it 3 times makes it sink in youre mind good..n easier to remember the the other instructional tips about why you did this n that. I worked real well for me...great job i think bro...thank you..

[@helloallyouppl]

I like the voice over, on the really technical stuff when you’re in the zone and excited sometimes it’s hard for me to understand when you explain in the field but back home it’s more concise and thorough. I love when you’re in it and excited so never stop bringing your wonderful energy to us but on especially technical falls I’d like to hear more voice over :) love ya buckin

[@tonydpayne]

Loving the voice over. Lots of great information 🇦🇺

[@wickie2222]

The back and forth with the voiceover is great. Makes it very clear.

[@johnhudson6469]

I love the voice over! It gives you time to explain the process without yelling over the saws and such! And why is watching a tree fall so satisfying? Thanks Buckin!

[@jirusjirus9322]

Ha ha... that's right, yelling over power saws is like talking a rock concert. Love the voice over

[@4570levergun]

Like I said before: It's like the Bob Ross of chainsaws talking you through a tree felling. And I like it. Happy little trees and happier little saws. Perfect.

[@jasonkloos1498]

❤ "the Bob Ross of chainsaws" so true!!!

[@matthewtaylor2185]

Happy little men sucking in the smell of sap and gasoline!

[@calebporter6150]

Buckin, love the commentary. I learn a lot. You’re a tree wizard!

[@WolfinWolvesClothing713]

I like the voice over. One of the reasons I watch is because you definitely know way more than most about it. It helps to understand the steps as you go. Thanks Buckin.

[@greenstair]

Hi Buckin' - I really enjoyed that, thank you. You have helped me a lot over the years. Right now in northern England we've had two really bad storms this winter: storm Arwen (105mph gusts) and just last Saturday, storm Malik (90 mph gusts). We've a lot of trees down and some lying across those from the first storm. Clearing the leaners that we didn't want to work underneath has been something to make me concentrate: watching your videos has helped a lot. Shorter, educational ones that are just like this one are great. I wedged over a couple of leaners, one was so back I basically only flattened the front side off, barely any face cut at all. It's intimidating to a guy who hasn't done this for a living before, when there's a stone wall to miss, and things to either side and it HAS to go uphill against the lean. But I slowed down, I watched your stuff again, I stopped cutting and pounded in the wedges - and then doubled them and what do you know, she went dead straight between the goal posts. I wouldn't have done it without you buddy. Thank you so much.

[@jasonvanlew4132]

IMPRESSIVE! THANKS! Been cutting trees for over 20 years and I'm still learning new things that give me that little edge above! Your one of a kind Buckin!

[@josteincarlsen2905]

Me too. Even went to school for it in 94. Never seen this before.

[@ritterjon]

💥 I love the voice over step by step how to. You’re a great KZbinr Buckin. We love ya. Be kind! *Keep on tractoring!*

[@gregz7159]

Thank you, Billy Ray. You’ve published a LOT of great content, but this is the best regarding making the back cut first with leaners. Simple, instructive, to the point and great viewing/camera perspective. We watched the crown - perfect!

[@FensFirewood]

The voiceover was great Buckin! Love it!

[@russramos4667]

I know I'm a year late, but: The voice over is great, Buckin! Let's us know in real-time what the thought process and concepts are. Love your videos. Thanks, Buckin!

[@eclark53520]

I like the voice over. I do wish you would spend more time emphasizing that this is an advanced felling technique and NOT meant for beginners. I've seen several people now getting themselves in trouble attempting this back cut first technique when it's really not necessary and even if it were, they don't possess the skills necessary to do it properly. Last guy I helped after his BCF technique failed mentioned you specifically as to where he got the idea from. It was his 3rd attempt EVER at felling a tree. I've watched your video's for years and always enjoy them, but some people don't understand that this cut sequence is probably beyond their abilities.

[@mikepurvey5205]

Imho the voiceover where you explain what’s happening and why you do things the way you do them is a HUGE upgrade. Not dealing with background noise is a real help. Thanks for these vids. They really are educational.

[@wildcaughtfirewood1511]

Voice over was all good, Buckin’. Love to see the back cut first technique. Thanks much, brother

[@jirusjirus9322]

Love the voice over especially when the live soundtrack is still audible. The squeaky sound of the hinge recently has been great.👍

[@dubyajay7860]

This was beautifully done buckin. More videos like this where you explain the same thing from multiple angles would be very appreciated. Maybe some on how to do dead trees (we have lots of dead ash here in Ontario), with widow makers. Keep at er.

[@matthewbratz7868]

Hey Billy. I really like the voice over! Every time I watch you work I learn. Thanks for taking the time to teach and influence other. Love the message!

[@dalebrames5573]

The tree setting back on the saw was a incredible shot. You explaining it at the same time, way over the top. Then in reverse wedging it down. Incredible teaching. Great video Buckin

[@stevec8861]

Yes Buckin', please continue the voice overs describing the impact of your actions on the tree's movement. I'm just an amateur , but you might want to add to disclaimer not recommended in windy conditions? I've done this back cut first with back leaners, but never in wind out of fear wind taking tree down before putting in face cut to control direction.

[@chewyboy]

Love the instructional voice over. I am by no means a logger just enjoy the saws and have learned a ton from your channel. Probably the most important thing I’ve learned and you can see it in every video is take your time and precise with your cuts. Thanks

[@duxnlabs]

Voiceover is immensely helpful to a full understanding. Please continue them. Thanks for all the content!

[@stukaman1162]

To all Buckin' Billy Ray fans: I used to be this guy's harshest critic - mainly because of his atrociously post-edited comments, complete with incorrect grammar and misspellings he'd display on the screen. But the more I watched his videos, the more I realized his consistently positive message about relationships was far greater than what he was misspelling. His thoughtfulness in helping others in need, his wealth of technical knowledge of felling trees safely and securely, his downright beautiful tutoring relationship with his son Ganges, and his positive message of love and reconciliation far outstrips a few quirky spelling errors. I have come to see Buckin' Billy Ray more as a remarkable, yet unpretentious ambassador for kindness and respect in his relationships with his fellow man. Indeed, the world would be a better place if the rest of us ever became wise enough to emulate this approach to life by following in his footsteps. BBR would probably be too humble to say this about himself, so I will say it for us all in his honor.

[@brandonbutela6269]

For me, the voiceover is the cherry on top this awesome video sundae! I think it would be a great addition to future videos for the instruction segments. The crown view just blew me away on what is happening to a tree when bang'n. Each smack just sends so much energy up the trunk. (Side note: I'm understanding, through your videos, better as to really how much stored energy is in a tree and when an improperly executed plan happens, why REALLY bad things can happen.) Thank you for your time and sharing your knowledge and wisdom. Stay safe and God bless.

[@joeliebhauser816]

I like the extra commentary voice-over, and the repeat summary. Great video. With that you are following tried and true instruction technique: “tell ‘em what you are gonna tell ‘em, tell ‘em, then tell ‘em what you told ‘em,’. It works!

[@bholbert8580]

As someone who is new and trying to get into the tree service industry the voice over is the most helpful thing. Appreciate all your videos and love seeing those older saw ripping into trees!

[@BuckinBillyRaySmith]

GOOD STUFF

[@bradywatcherson498]

Loved it. I appreciate the voice over detailing your thoughts and technique coupled with the crown view showing how the tree reacts with what you're doing. This guy gives it 👍👍. 😄

[@dougt7584]

Love the voice overs buckin, it's awesome to hear your thought process and understand why you do what you do. Keep it up👍

[@mikeedrich8256]

For me the voice over works REALLY WELL, I can hear and understand your explanation better, so I’d vote for you to do it more often please. Mike

[@darionz]

I love the voice overs! But the mix between the two is the best!

[@amosbackstrom5366]

Love the voiceover, excellent explanations as always. I started doing tree work a couple years ago and everything I've learned from you has helped me move up in position and pay very quickly. I'm extremely thankful for what you do on this channel, Billy. You make me want to be a nicer, more patient person. Love you friend

[@22kliney]

I enjoy the commentary, it helps me to better understand the "why" behind the techniques. Thank you for all the videos Buckin!

[@telecasterfool1773]

100% I want the voice over. Gaining the benefits from your experience is one of the reasons I watch. Thanks!

[@chadrichardson7721]

You have gave me so much insight over the years. From hanging axe handles to cutting back learners. Love it all. Love always wins.

[@jaypirosko]

Professor Buckin’ I personally love the commentary, it confirms or corrects what I think is going on and for me it’s about learning and enjoying. Keep it up! 👍🏻✊🏻🇨🇦

[@billyreed3338]

I think the voice over is great. Timing the strikes is great advice. You can hear the difference. Thanks Buckin.

[@johnmedlin5894]

The voice over commentary I find to be very helpful. Like many have said, it is very educational because you are explaining the process and why you are doing what you are doing.

[@kencornelius9584]

Keep doing the voice-over. You've helped me more than you'll ever know! God Bless you Buckin'!

[@drew2thoro-959]

Buckin, you are the Bob Ross of tree work . You're the MAN!

[@gregwagner7125]

I like the voice over gives me time to let the whole process to sink in. Good timing on the video I have a leaner I have to take down on the back of my property.

[@andrewscott2866]

The commentary describing your procedure and thought process is so helpful!! I've said it before and I'll say it again, you make it look easy Buckin👌👍👍

[@nathanmunro-donohue4330]

Buckin, the voice overs are gold. If you left me this footage with no monologue I’d be guessing. With you explaining your process it becomes a master class. ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥

[@williamholton5150]

The voice overs are really appreciated. Thanks Buckin.

[@crazybobc1]

Love the voice over Buckin, Thank you.

[@FarmBossSaws]

Thanks for the refresher lesson in back cut first. After your last demonstration of the back cut first I tried it on a leaning 12” hard maple and failed miserably, you’re totally right on the accuracy of cutting your notch. I went too deep and the tree sat back and wouldn’t budge so it just notched it above and fell the opposite direction with the lean. I’ll have to try again soon.

[@laurencelance586]

I'm watching this two years later. It's perfect! Watching how the cut moves the crown and then seeing how the wedging lifts the crown is really important. Also noticing how the wedging causes stuff to fall is a good reason for looking up AND a good reason for head gear. It's also very interesting how the shockwave travels from the kerf up the tree and then causes a ripple about half way up. Little scary to wonder if the tree could fold up in the middle. Thanks Buckin'

[@tazman-kennyfuller]

Love the Back cut first. Great voice over Buckin. I dig it. Great explanation as the cuts and wedges were going in. Thank you sir. Love ya brother. 🌲❤🌲👊🪓

[@backyardfirewood9852]

First; I like the voice over on these types of videos. It helps! Next; I didn't catch why you did the back cut first but I figure this prevented the back cut from closing where if you put the face cut in first there wouldn't be anything to "hold" the back cut open... I watch these over and over. Don't have anyone to learn from; heck, most around here think angled back cuts are the only way to go. I noticed how important it was to keep looking up as you go along. Seemed that every time you hit the wedge, debris would fall from the crown. Also; the shot of the trunk moving and kind of bending as you hit the wedge was super cool... Based on how much you moved the crown, I'm going to guess that tree was about 100' tall?

[@WildAcresFarms]

Your guess is correct. I’ve gone ‘back cut first’ a few times. Either a medoum 10-18” tree you’re driving overcenter until it falls against it’s back lean just with wedges, or a larger tree using both wedges and a pull from an excavator or truck. The key is to chase your bar into the tree with the wedges until you’re close to final depth. Then make a shallow face and dress it in deeper to avoid making your hinge too thin if your two facecuts don’t line up. Go slow and play it safe.

[@backyardfirewood9852]

@@WildAcresFarms thanks! I tend to stick to trees that are close to the ground. The other thing that I would guess is that you’d do this instead of a bore cut b/c there’s not enough trunk to work with?

[@tomherbison1454]

The voice over is appreciated. It makes the viewing experience that much more enjoyable and educational. Thank you.

[@jeffcoon7160]

Voice-over is great. This video could easily be used in a felling class, or for teaching new groundies which is exactly what I do. Thank you for making great videos

[@lawrencepevitts2434]

I like the voice overs. You actually get to see what you're explaining.

[@SmooveBee1]

BBRS - your voiceover is BOSS. Keep up the good work. You are the killer app on tree work for the community and we appreciate the positivity and the Canadian Spirit.

[@Luke-wg4jm]

This style of commentary is great! Much clearer, thanks buckin.

[@daddywags1000]

Voice-over is PERFECT! Thank you!

[@madams1690]

Buckin the voice over in many of the videos isn’t just your narration for the sake of doing it but from my perspective a vital tool on why you choose to perform a specific cut and the reasons behind it. It is a free education for many of us that do not have an experienced faller standing behind us giving instruction as we cut.

[@drewscreations8551]

I like the voiceover. It’s nice to hear you explain what you are doing and why you are doing it.

[@henry9806]

Personally I appreciate the voice over a lot, helps explain what you are thinking and why you are doing what you are doing

[@pdxbk]

YES! The overdubbing is very helpful. Between Norwegian Wood by Lars Mytting and your channel, I took my courage/confidence and applied your wisdom to become a more sufficient man. And that over dubbing shortens my learning curve. Thank you for sharing all of you.

[@tonyjansma2997]

I like the voice over in the video, that works, that helps. Always great learning from you. Cheers. TJ

[@novicelumberjack]

I love the voice-over. I learn a lot from watching your channel, and the voice-over is answering my questions in real-time as I watch. Excellent.

[@bvhia]

2 years late but voice over is amazing. I am a beginner tree feller, you can only learn so much from watching. Explanation is key. Maybe dont do all your videos with voiceover but it is really really helpful thank you

[@sampayne5821]

Love the voice over. It gives you a chance to go in depth of your work as opposed to trying to yell over the saw and explain all you can on the fly. You’re doing great work. Keep it up

[@adelarsen9776]

1) Voice over excellent idea. 2) This is one of 2 videos on this channel that explain leaners the best. Thank you. I learned more from this video.

[@mattpastell3728]

The crown view really emphasized the importance on timing the hits. Enjoyed the commentary!

[@benhumpin]

I enjoyed the voice over. It helps a lot with trying to figure out what you are doing sometimes as well as having the voice over it ties everything in. Thanks Buckin.

[@normwelsh812]

Hi Buckin. The voice over was fantastic for us trying to understand your techniques. Simultaneous visual and audio learning enhances learning curve.

[@markanderson1519]

I like the voice over. I'm here to learn and this was really informative and clear. Thank you.

[@matthewcrist1012]

I love the voice over - your observations are what bring me here!

[@timstout781]

Voice over. 👍👍 Much clearer and easier to understand. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us. Because of your videos I have much more confidence in felling trees. When people ask how did you learn that, I say "Buckin Billy Ray".

[@roycolglazier1061]

@BBR, before subscribing, my ONLY powersaw work was clearing storm damage and RR tie /landscaping projects on my own property, or helping friends & neighbors w/same. Now, after a few years watching & listening here, tho no expert, I'm competent NOW to do routine falling, a thing never attempted prior to your tutelage! Thank you, and please continue with the voiceovers. Your help has probably saved me and countless others from serious injury, not to nention liability for needless ancilary damage! You do NOT project as some sort of smug know-it-all, so keep on helping the casual or occasional wood-man, we need it! 🙏🏻✝️😁👍❗️

[@kennytheguitarfanatic054]

I really liked the voice over a detailed explanation of how to cut a leaning tree. The detail on how each cut and wedge makes the tree move . Real Pro Stuff!

[@rynojacobs3493]

Hey Buckin, I loved the commentary. Especially with the 2 angles to see both perspectives. Much appreciated, love ya!

[@paulb2378]

Hi Buckin, the voiceover commentary is great! Please do more :). It’s very beneficial to hear you talk about what you’re doing on camera as you get a better insight into the thought processes. I think it would help anyone who is cutting and also be interesting to those who don’t. All round, I think it’s a good thing! Thanks again

[@05xlt]

That was an awesome perspective that you captured! Crazy how much you can straighten out a tree like that. I think the voiceover fit well with the format of the video, well done on all accounts!

[@robertcoronado3630]

Hey Buckin the voice over is great. The shorter videos are nice but I think the OG’s would agree that we love the longer videos just cause you are so good at what you do and speaking for my self I look up to you even though I’ve never met or talked to you. Keep doing the great work!

[@paulwbutters4944]

Yes, definitely, voice over, please Buckin ! I’ve learned so much over the past few years watching your videos. When I bring up “back cut first” to any arborist, tree service, hydro crew around here they always look at me puzzled, lol. I’ve had to employ it in a few situations, resolved the matter each time. Your videos are always top notch, keep’em coming :))

[@johnarnettsways.8758]

That was awesome buckin. Now I understand back cut first. Its like you just shined a light in the dark and there it was. Thank you sr. 🌲❤️❤️❤️🌲

[@thehealedheartspace]

I agree, awesome vid! Love to ya John and the Mrs👋✌❤

[@macandmall]

Love the voice over, we can hear you better than trying to talk over the saw, and it gives you a chance to explain better

[@KimWilson-LoveWins]

Love the voice over! Perfect balance between saw sound and talking. ❤

[@travissteward6522]

I do a lot of back cut first. Love the video, love the channel, hope everyone has an amazing day. The voice over was a nice touch, im glad you showed the crown, so many times people bang bang bang and don't watch the crown. I love that wood bullet too!!!

[@chadc2000]

Commentary is good and appreciated. Not sure why it would be done without commentary, I'm here to learn, not be entertained. Thanks for the video!

[@davidthomas5997]

Awesome video Bucking! I love the looks of Sylvia loaded up full of wood. She looks as though she isnt even feeling it. Your voice over work was really good. The side by side of the two cameras really made this an educational and fun video. Love you man. You have helped me a lot.

[@steveinla8963]

The voice over is good brother Billy. It.s nice to be able to hear you clearly.

[@ChevyGuy70]

I love the voice overs. You always give much needed information which keep others informed and safe when in the bush👍

[@dblhsquard2898]

Loved the walk through.! Way to go Buckin!!!

[@zmurray9499]

I have no interest in falling trees but I like your personality. I watch the videos to hear you talk about things.

[@richu4922]

I love the voice over explanation. It really adds to my understanding. Thanks for making the video!

[@johngrossbohlin7582]

For a moment there I thought the phone was a goner! Voice over is good. I like to see the back cut first approach in your videos. I seem to have to use it more often than I'd like but it is really a useful tool.

[@DanielAtkinsFirewood]

Thank you buckin.. I have been here since the 18k mark and videos like this I learn something. When I started down thus firewood rabbit hole I had no idea where to start. Since then I have taken down a few trees around my home with confidence and have been successful..

[@ToxicityAssured]

I really liked the video. They don't all have to be the same though. It's the quality content, knowledge and compassion that have made and keep this audience.

[@kaynecustoza3365]

I love the voice overs buckin gives me a good perspective on what ur doing and saying all in one very cool

[@WildAcresFarms]

By far the best instructional video to date. I hate trying to make out what your saying when you try to yell over the sound of the saw. And showing the stump and then the crown movement uninterrupted is SO MUCH better than cutting back and forth.

[@seanquinlan7530]

I watch to learn. The voice over and multiple cameras are almost imperative to making an instructional video work. More of those please. Thanks Buckin’!

[@carsonmcvay2069]

I love the commentary because sometimes you really just need a explanation it can be hard to hear over the saw. Buckin love your content. Thank you for all that you do.

[@Mancab96]

Mind blown every time you do the back cut first , amazing