What technique is used to prevent the chainsaw bar from becoming pinched during low stumping?

Using wedges is the appropriate technique to prevent the chainsaw bar from becoming pinched during low stumping. When cutting close to the ground, the chainsaw's bar can encounter tension, especially if the stump has not completely fallen over or if there is pressure on the stem. In such situations, wedges can be used to create space between the bar and the wood, allowing the cut to proceed without the bar getting stuck.

Wedges can be driven into the cut to help create a gap. This not only facilitates a smoother cutting process but also enhances safety, as it reduces the risk of the saw being pinched or binding, which could lead to dangerous situations or equipment damage. By lifting the wood slightly, wedges help maintain control during the cutting process.

Other options, such as using ropes, felling snags, and tree rigging, do not directly address the specific issue of pinching in low stumping scenarios. While these techniques have their own roles in different logging or felling operations, they do not effectively solve the pinching problem that arises specifically during low cuts. Wedges are specifically designed for this purpose and are a fundamental tool in a chainsaw operator's kit for maintaining safety and efficiency.