Mastering a Hidden Craft: Wielding a Blade to Bring Down a Giant
In the heart of wilderness survival, knowing how to fell a tree without an ax or hatchet can be a lifesaver. Even if you're low on equipment, a sturdy survival knife can do the trick. Preference goes to a Mora knife, since it can take a beating.
To fell a small tree, you'll need a solid stick alongside your knife. The plan is to pound the back of the knife with the stick, cutting small wedges around the tree. It's a laborious method, but effective when you're in a pinch.
Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started:
- Select the Right Knife: Choose a robust, full-tang survival knife with a sturdy blade, preferably made of high-carbon steel, like the Morakniv Garberg or similar.
- Choose the Right Tree: Opt for a smaller tree or a dead branch, easy to manage.
- Safety First: Wear protection, such as gloves and safety glasses.
- Find a Suitable Notch Location: Identify a spot on the tree where you want the cut to be. Start with a notch about a third of the way through the trunk.
- Create a Notch: Make V-shaped cuts with your knife, progressively deepening them. Always cut away from your body, maintaining control over the knife.
- Make Additional Cuts: On the opposite side of the notch, make parallel cuts about two inches above the notch. These should be halfway through the trunk. Be mindful of the tree's lean and any obstacles that could interfere with its fall.
- Continue Cutting: Gradually deepen the parallel cuts on the opposite side of the notch, going about two-thirds through the trunk. Switch sides to maintain balance and ensure the tree falls in the desired direction.
- Final Push: Once you've cut far enough, use your knife or a stick to gently push the tree towards the notch side. Be prepared to move quickly if the tree starts to fall.
- Evacuate: As soon as the tree begins to fall, move away from its path to avoid injury.
Practice is key when it comes to felling trees with a knife. Be aware of your surroundings, the tree's condition, and always approach this task with caution. When possible, avoid felling trees without proper tools and training.
For more manly know-how, check out our book "The Illustrated Art of Manliness," available on Amazon. And remember, safety is always the first priority. Happy felling!
On a related note, check out our posts on:- How to Keep Your Christmas Tree Fresher, Longer- How to Choose the Perfect Survival Knife- Kitchen Fundamentals: Basic Knife Skills- How to Fell a Tree Safely and Effectively- 5 Critical Knife Skills for the Outdoorsman- Brass Knuckle Gun Knife
Stay safe out there!
- A sturdy survival knife, such as the Morakniv Garberg, can be a valuable asset when felling a small tree, making your outdoor-living skills more effective.
- A man's character is tested in the outdoors, and learning basic knife skills, like felling a tree, is a part of that test, contributing to one's manhood.
- To complete the lifestyle of an outdoorsman, mastering the art of felling trees could be a valuable addition to your home-and-garden skills repertoire.
- Style and skill go hand in hand, and there's a certain charm in being able to perform tasks, such as fell a tree, in the wilderness with a simple knife, reflecting both practicality and elegance.
