Can we talk about using a handsaw vs a chainsaw for pruning live oak?

I used to swear by my chainsaw for everything, even small branches on this big live oak in Austin. But after watching a guy use a handsaw to get cleaner cuts that healed faster with less bark tear, I'm totally switching for anything under 4 inches. Has anyone else found that the extra time is worth it for tree health?

2 comments

2 Comments

john_cooper16d ago

Pruning cuts on live oaks with a chainsaw can definitely leave more damage than people realize. The bark tear is real especially if the chainsaw chain is a little dull or you're not careful with the cut. On anything under 4 inches a handsaw gives you way more control. You can make a clean cut right at the branch collar without stripping the bark. It takes longer but the tree heaps better and you get way less dieback around the wound. Just sharpen your handsaw regularly and it cuts through green wood like butter.

josephbutler16d ago

Toss a drop of water on the cut right after you make it and watch the bark slide right off in one piece. I've been cleaning up oak limbs after storms for years and found that a wet cut separates cleaner than a dry one. The moisture keeps the bark from shattering or peeling back. Also, if you're using a pruning saw, try a razor-tooth blade instead of a standard one. They're way sharper out of the box and leave a finish that looks like you sanded it. Saves you cleaning up frayed ends later.