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The Humbolt Top Cut
  The top cut is the first of two cuts that result in a Humbolt notch. The notch is made on the side of the tree that faces the direction you want it to fall.
 
The Correct Cut
 
1. Starting Point
Important -- begin at any height as long as you allow enough room for the undercut.
 		   Diagram of Top Cut With Starting Point, Angle of Attack, and Ending Point Diagram of Cross-section
2. Angle of Attack
Important -- cut flat and horizontally.
 
3. Ending Point
Stop when the cut reaches 1/4 to 1/3 of the trunk's diameter or when the cut reaches 80% of the tree's diameter at breast height.

Common Incorrect Cut
 
  Common Incorrect Cut - The bottom cut is not steep enough, resulting in a notch of less than 45 degrees.  
Arrow
 
  Here the bottom cut is not steep enough, resulting in a notch of less than 45 degrees.  
 


 
   
  Continue with The Humbolt Bottom or Undercut >>

  

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