Cutting to cranes

[KentuckySawyer]

Most crane operators that I've worked with prefer different methods of cuts. Some want a hinge, some a snap cut, and others just say cut it off. Actually one of the better operators in my area generally goes with the latter. There are obvious exceptions, like standing a limb up, or laying down a spar.

When you cut to a crane, how do you typically do it?
Also, how do you approach handling the dynamics of twisting limbs?

 

[John Paul Sanborn]

It depends on the situation. If straight up & down then snap cut, but I generally prefer to have big peices picked up away from me.

 

[tophopper]

Every cut is different. I usually make the decision of how to cut after Ive got the limb all choked up. Sometime just cut staright thru, some times an undercut or snap, and sometimes a hinge.
If it looks to me like a limb may twist when picked, Ill try to double choker it to minimize it if possible.

To answer your main question... IMO, there is no 1 cut that is better than the other, it really depends on the desired outcome of the cut

 

[Shaun Bowler]

I like to use the "snapcut" as well. I believe the operator has more control over the movement of the piece with out a face cut. However, depending on the lean of the spar,or size of the limb, sometimes a face cut is the only way to go.

 

[Ekka]

A close overlap snap cut allows time for you to get clear when the butt comes loose.

 

[Tree Trimmer]

For straight up, or even near vertical lifts, you can usually just cut straight through toward the opposite of your choker placement. Usually one needs a fast cutting saw to do this efficiently, because a slight twist due to boom angle being off a little can pinch in a slow cut. If you suspect a twist, then go snap-cut. However I submit that with enought practice and multiple chokers you can avoid major twists.

Just like anything, practice makes perfect, but there are always exceptions that can fool you.

TT

 

[John Paul Sanborn]

multiple chokers you can avoid major twists.

IMO this should be used with every heavy pick.

2 slings, choked with a clevice on opposet faces of the log.

The clevice choke will avoid the fabric-fabric friction that can cause metling/cutting of the sling.

I like fabric over steel just because the steel is allways so messy, and sometimes has burs and kinks.