Epic Tree Felling: One, Two, or Three Axes?

Have you ever wondered if it's possible to cut down a tree with just one person or even multiple people using only hand-held axes? This ancient skill is a fascinating mix of strength, precision, and technique, as demonstrated by the expert lumberjacks of the 19th century.

From Lumberjacks to Modern Forestry

In the 19th century, lumberjacks faced the monumental task of cutting down trees without the aid of powered machinery. They developed a variety of techniques to climb and fell trees, even those with tall, branchless trunks. Their expertise included using axes to cut through the base of the trunk or to craft specialized notches that would control the tree's direction as it fell. These techniques allowed them to not only cut down trees but also direct their fall with precision.

My Personal Experience: Axes and Trail Maintenance

I have personally chopped down many trees using axes while maintaining and building trails in the wilds of California's High Sierras and Montana. In wilderness areas, the use of chainsaws is strictly prohibited, making hand-held axes the primary tool for such tasks. Here is a detailed account of one such experience:

Once, a 10-inch diameter Lodgepole Pine leaned heavily over a trail in Montana. To clear this hazard, I needed to fell the tree, but in a precise manner to avoid damaging the surrounding trail infrastructure. I decided to create a triple-notch technique, carefully crafted on the leaning and slightly downhill side of the tree. An additional uphill notch was made to create a hinge that would control the tree's fall direction and rate.

Using a double-bit axe, I executed this technique perfectly. I was able to guide the tree down to a stump, providing a safer and more efficient removal compared to chopping it directly across the trail. This method not only allowed me to avoid additional chopping but also eliminated the need to split the log in half, saving both time and effort.

Efficiency and Safety in Tree Felling

When considering the number of people involved in tree felling, a few key factors come into play: the size of the tree, the available time, and the skill level of the individuals. A smaller tree might be cut down by a single person using a large knife, though this is slow and inefficient. For larger trees, multiple people working together can significantly increase efficiency and safety.

While it is technically possible for one person to fell a tree with an axe, the process may be more challenging and dangerous. Two or three people working together can distribute the workload, increase safety, and ensure a more controlled fall. Proper safety measures, such as wearing protective gear and using signaling methods, are essential regardless of the number of people involved.

Conclusion

Whether you are a seasoned lumberjack or a curious amateur, the art of tree felling using hand-held axes is a remarkable skill that requires precision, strength, and a deep understanding of forestry techniques. With the right tools and methods, multiple people can work together to achieve the maximum efficiency and safety in cutting down trees.