Pole saws are great for cutting branches that are too high or too thick to be cut with a regular saw. However, there are a few things you need to know before using a pole saw. Here are some tips on how to use a pole saw safely and effectively. You can’t use a regular saw to cut overhead branches of your yard tree. In this case, a pole saw will be your best bait as you can extend them to cut high tree twigs.
Besides, the pole saw is lightweight and portable. So, you can efficiently carry it around your yard to clean up dead tree branches.
But what happens if you don’t know how to use a pole saw correctly?
Using a pole saw improperly will cause a dangerous situation. Even it may take you to the emergency room of the hospital.
In this guide on the pole saw cutting techniques, we will show you how to use a pole saw properly to trim away tree twigs.
Pole saws are a great way to trim high branches without the use of a ladder. But, like any tool, they need to be used correctly in order to get the best results. Here are some tips on how to properly use a pole saw:
-Start by cutting smaller branches first. This will help you get a feel for how the saw works and also avoid overloading the motor.
-When cutting larger branches, make sure to start with a shallow cut and then go deeper as needed.
Cutting too deeply can cause the branch to break and fall on you.
-Use two hands when operating the pole saw. This will help you keep a steady grip and avoid accidents.
-Be aware of your surroundings and always watch out for power lines or other hazards.
So, let’s dive into this step by step guide.
Pole Saw Accidents
A pole saw is a power tool that helps people trim trees and branches. It consists of a long, extendable pole with a sharp blade at the end. While pole saws are very useful for many tasks, they can also be dangerous.
Pole saw accidents are not uncommon. In fact, the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that there are an average of 4,000 hospitalizations each year due to pole saw accidents. The most common injuries from pole saw accidents include cuts, lacerations, and punctures.
There are several things you can do to avoid being injured in a pole saw accident:
- Read the instruction manual carefully before using the tool.
- Wear proper safety gear, including gloves, goggles, and ear protection.
- Inspect the tool before each use to make sure it is in good working condition.
- Extend the pole slowly and carefully to avoid putting too much pressure on it.
- Be aware of your surroundings and stay away from power lines while using the tool.
Cutting Techniques of Pole Saw-Step By Step Guide from A Pro.

Step 1: Preparation for Cutting
In the very first step, we let you know what safety precautions you need to take. It keeps you safe from potential accidents.
At first, put on non-slip safety gloves to ensure maximum grip and protection.
Secondly, make sure you grip the unit firmly when the motor starts running. With your right hand, hold the rear handle of your pole saw. On the other hand, use your left hand to grip the pole shaft firmly.
Thirdly, you must grip the unit firmly using your both hands. Always keep your body to the left of the chain line.
Fourthly, don’t stand directly under the limbs or branches you are going to cut.
Finally, make sure you tighten the collar correctly before operating the unit. It helps you to prevent severe injury.
Step 2: Basic Cutting Procedure
Follow the below step by step guide to learn the basics of cutting using a pole saw.
Firstly, make a superficial first cut on the underside of the limb close to the main trunk.
Secondly, make a second cut from the top side of the branch outboard from the first cut. Continue the cutting process until the limb is separated from the tree. Be ready to balance the weight of your pole saw when the branch falls.
Lastly, make a final cut near to the trunk.
Note: Grasp the first cutting guide against the limb you are cutting. It helps to keep the branch steady and makes it easy to trim. Let the chain cut the tree twigs for you. Never try to force. Otherwise, it may damage the motor, chain, and bar.
Step 3: Final Cutting Procedure (Limbing and Pruning)
This is the final chapter of this guide. From here, you can learn how to use a pole saw to cut tree branches like a pro. So, let’s dive into it.
Firstly, clear the workspace where you are standing free from people and property. In this way, you can avoid potential damage by falling the tree on them.
Secondly, before cutting the tree or branches, make a proper plan. Don’t trim away the branches without thinking. It doesn’t only protect you from potential accidents but also helps you to save your time.
Thirdly, make sure you are trimming away the lower tree twigs & limbs first. It will help you to create a clear path to cut the overhead branches effectively.
Fourthly, firmly stand on the ground and position yourself correctly. Never stand directly under the branches you are going to cut. The right way to cut is- stand off to the side of the tree twigs.
Fifthly, now, it’s time to adjust your pole saw length. Make sure you extend the pole saw according to the manual guide. Position the pole at your chest level and lengthen it in a way so that it can reach the branch.
Sixthly, position your saw blade rightly to start cutting the tree branches.
Seventhly, it’s time to cut the branches. However, you need to make sure that the first cut will be slow and at a controlled speed.
If you cut at a full or fast speed, the blade will slip away, which will make the cutting process hard.
For avoiding this issue, it would be best to create a groove. And cutting the branches slowly will help you to do that.
Once you create the groove and the blade is secure, you can increase the speed. Keep your eyes to the branches until it falls.
Make sure you are in a convenient position so that you can move if required.
Finally, clean the work area by removing the cutting branches.
Pole Saw Cutting Techniques
27-Foot Pole Saw/Tree Pruner
When it comes to trimming trees, there is nothing more versatile or effective than a 27-foot pole saw/tree pruner. This powerful tool allows you to reach high branches and cut them down with ease, making it the perfect choice for both professionals and homeowners alike. Here are just a few of the many benefits that come with using a 27-foot pole saw/tree pruner:
- You can reach branches that are otherwise out of your reach.
- The long handle gives you more leverage, making it easier to cut through thick branches.
- The blade is designed for cutting through tough wood, so you can easily take care of any tree-trimming job.
- It’s much safer than using a ladder to try and reach high branches – not to mention more effective!
How Do You Make an Undercut With a Pole Saw?
An undercut is a type of cut that is made using a pole saw. This cut is typically made at the base of a tree trunk, and it involves cutting through the bark and into the wood. The purpose of an undercut is to create a notch that can be used for attaching a rope or other type of rigging.
When making an undercut with a pole saw, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, you’ll want to make sure that the blade of your saw is sharp. A dull blade will make it more difficult to cut through the bark and wood, and it could also cause damage to the tree.
Second, you’ll need to be careful not to overcut – meaning, don’t cut too deeply into the tree. An undercut should only be deep enough to create a notch for rigging; if it’s too deep, it could weaken or even kill the tree.
Finally, take care not to damage any surrounding property – like houses, power lines, etc.- while cutting.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make an undercut with a pole saw:
1) Position your saw so that the blade is lined up with where you want to make your cut. If you’re right-handed, position yourself so that you’re standing on the left side of the tree; if you’re left-handed, position yourself on the right side. This will give you better control of the saw as you make your cut.
2) Start by cutting through the bark. Apply gentle pressure as you do this – too much pressure could cause damage to both the bark and underlying wood.
3) Once you’ve cut through the bark, continue cutting into the wood itself. Again, apply gentle pressure as you do this; too much pressure could cause damage or breakage (especially if your blade isn’t sharp).
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)
Q 1. Can a Pole Saw Cut down a Tree?
It is possible to cut down a tree with a pole saw, but it is not recommended. Pole saws are designed for trimming branches, not cutting through trunks. Cutting through a tree trunk with a pole saw can damage the blade and put the operator at risk of injury.
If you need to cut down a tree, it is best to use a chainsaw.
Q 2. How Big of a Limb Can I Cut With a Pole Saw?
When it comes to cutting limbs with a pole saw, there is no definitive answer. The size of the limb will depend on the type of pole saw you are using, as well as the power and blade length. However, as a general rule of thumb, you should be able to cut limbs that are up to 10 inches in diameter with a pole saw.
If you’re looking to cut larger limbs, you may need to use a different tool altogether.
Q 3. How Do You Cut Branches With a Pole Saw?
Assuming you are referring to a typical pole saw for cutting branches: Most pole saws have a rope and handle attached to the main body/pole of the saw. There is also a blade at the end of the pole.
To use, first extend the blade out to the desired length. Next, position the blade on the branch you wish to cut and ensure that the branch is securely lodged between the teeth of the saw (you may need someone to help hold/position the branch). Finally, pull down on the rope/handle attached to trigger mechanism which will cause the blade to rotate and cut through the branch.
Q 4. How to Use an Electric Pole Saw
An electric pole saw is a useful tool for trimming branches and cutting down small trees. Here are some tips on how to use an electric pole saw: -Wear protective clothing, including gloves, goggles, and a face mask
-Check the power cord of the pole saw before plugging it in to make sure it is not damaged. -Extend the pole saw to its full length and lock it into place. -Position the blade at the base of the branch or tree trunk that you want to cut.
-Start the saw and carefully guide it through the branch or tree trunk. Apply pressure as needed to keep the blade moving smoothly.
Q 5. Using a Pole Saw on a Ladder
When it comes to trimming trees, a pole saw is a versatile and useful tool. But did you know that you can also use a pole saw on a ladder? That’s right – with the right technique, you can safely and effectively use a pole saw on a ladder.
Here are some tips for using a pole saw on a ladder: -Choose the right ladder. A stepladder or an extension ladder is best for this task.
Avoid using a straight ladder, as it will be more difficult to maneuver around the tree. -Set up the ladder correctly. Make sure that the legs of the ladder are firmly planted on level ground before climbing up.
And once you’re on the ladder, make sure to grip it tightly with both hands. -Be careful when cutting branches. When cutting branches with a pole saw, take care not to cut too deeply into the branch itself.
Otherwise, you could damage the tree or injure yourself. Also, be aware of where the branch will fall once it’s cut – you don’t want it to land on anyone or anything!
Conclusion
Cutting or trimming away tree bunches with a pole saw will be fun if you do it rightly.
But it will be a course for you or make you injured severely if you don’t use the saw correctly.
When using a pole saw, there are a few things to keep in mind in order to ensure a safe and successful experience.
First, always read the manufacturer’s instructions before using the pole saw. This will help you understand how to properly operate the tool.
Second, make sure the blade is sharp before beginning to cut. A dull blade will make it more difficult to cut through the branch and can increase the risk of injury. Third, when cutting, use slow, steady strokes. Avoid trying to force the blade through the wood as this can cause kickbacks which can be dangerous.
Finally, always wear gloves and eye protection when using a pole saw.
And here our guide on the pole saw cutting techniques came into place. Follow the step-by-step guide we provided to cut the tree twigs rightly.
Otherwise, you will suffer a lot.