Does anyone know of a tool that is used to stabalize a tree that is to be cut down? I saw a picture of one but I don't remember where. It was triangulated between the tree and the ground and had some type of mechanical power to force the tree in the direction that the feller wanted it to fall. I think it was pneumatic. It was not inexpensive. In the range of $300-$400 I think but it would seem worth it if it could prevent even one hospital visit from a tree falling on someone.

-- John Fritz (JohnFritz24@hotmail.com), October 13, 2001

Answers

I believe it's called a "tree jack" or "j-bar."

-- Laura Rae Jensen (lrjensen@nwlink.com), October 13, 2001.

notch it,, and use a rope

-- stan (sopal@net-port.com), October 13, 2001.

Their called Tree Jacks and I don't know where you saw one for $300 to $400, but the cheapest one in Baileys catalog is $1,579.00 for a small one. But, like stan said, you can tie a rope to it about half way up and stake it tight to the side you want it to fall and then a good knotch on the rope side and you could get yourself some falling wedges and that should take care of it. Oh and Don't forget to yell TIMBER!!!!!!!!

-- TomK(mich) (tjk@cac.net), October 13, 2001.

I have some steel cable I got at a farm auction for $1. I use it and a snatch block (pully) atached to another tree. you can pull it with a pick-up or small tractor. Don't forget to wear your hard hat to protect from dead limbs. THEY COME DOWN HARD. Been there done that.

-- Mel Kelly (melkelly@webtv.net), October 13, 2001.

If you want to absolutely guarantee where the tree will land, park an expensive truck or piece of immovable equipment on that spot. Cut however you will and Murphy's law will drag the tree inexorably to that spot!

-- Soni (thomkilroy@hotmail.com), October 13, 2001.

Norwood industries makes the tree jack, I believe it is 379.00.

Why not use a Swedish felling lever instead? They are "only" 45.00 or so. You do have to look for them. Try 'Forestry Suppliers' or 'Ben Meadows' Great companies. On the come along angle look at their red come alongs. I forget the brand but they are made in the USA of cast iron, use 5/16 cable, and weigh nearly 30 pounds. about 120.00. You get what you pay for. These companies don't sell import junk

-- Marc (toymeister@hotmail.com), October 13, 2001.

Hope you get the Countryside Mag. on page 119 there is an ad for the Tree Jack. $345. by Norwood.

-- Jo (farmerjo@kvalley.com), October 14, 2001.