What is the name of the last cut made during tree felling?

The last cut made during tree felling is known as the backcut. This cut is crucial because it helps control the direction in which the tree falls and is executed after the initial cuts—particularly the undercut, which establishes the direction of the fall.

When performing a backcut, the operator removes wood from the opposite side of the tree from the undercut. This allows the tree to pivot and fall in the desired direction, creating a safe and controlled felling process. Proper execution of the backcut is vital for forest safety and effective tree falling, as it sets the stage for the tree to fall smoothly without unpredictable behavior.

The other terminology—such as the undercut, wedge cut, and hinge cut—refers to different techniques or aspects involved in felling a tree, but they do not represent the final cutting action that secures the tree's fall path. Understanding the role of the backcut in the felling process is essential for safe and effective operations in wildland management and chainsaw usage.