Face cut or back cut first?

[muddy42]

By sawing lean and undermining the center of gravity most trees don't need wedges or ropes. This takes practice to determine safely.

I agree. As in my message, I don't use wedges/ropes all the time, but I'm probably more safe than sorry with wedges. What I am trying to say is that I would prefer to add wedges/ropes to a traditional hinge (that I am familiar with) than experiment with some of the more exotic techniques you see on youtube.