Need to cut off a dead limb about 30' above ground

[whiskywizard]

Another option is the redneck branch saw, cut an old chain from a chain saw and tie it between two lengths of rope, throw it over and pull the ends back and forth in a sawing motion till it cuts thru, before you laugh...it works in a pinch.

That sounds like a job you should give to your brother-in-law. You can stand back and tell him when to run

 

[aczlan]

I didn't even know they made a trailer type boom lift! Thanks! I could drive down & pick that up myself :thumbsup:

The one I usually rent is similar to this one: JLG Model: T350 Towable Boom Lift. It tows well behind a 1 ton van or a 1/2 ton pickup.

Aaron Z

 

[texasjohn]

For a single branch I would get a flexible cable with cutting teeth imbedded. I have seen at camping section of Walmart, other such places. A few bucks, rings in the end to put fingers or rope in. I'd tie on two ropes throw one end over branch, start sawing away...likely far cheaper and faster than other techniques, and you have new tool to use next time:thumbsup:

 

[aczlan]

For a single branch I would get a flexible cable with cutting teeth imbedded. I have seen at camping section of Walmart, other such places. A few bucks, rings in the end to put fingers or rope in. I'd tie on two ropes throw one end over branch, start sawing away...likely far cheaper and faster than other techniques, and you have new tool to use next time:thumbsup:

Just make sure the ropes are long enough that you are well away from the branch. Wouldnt want have it land on your head.

Aaron Z

 

[texasjohn]

Extra benefit...long ropes for next project:thumbsup:

 

[Short Game]

I've always wanted a laser trimmer for jobs like this.

If you do the redneck saw, I would make it a two man saw, with enough length to get both pullers back away from the action. If only one person is doing it, that one person would have to be to one side, and therefore, would be cutting the side of the branch as well as the top. I would expect it to quickly pinch the saw and be stuck. You would want to only cut from the top so the weight opens up the kerf as you go.

 

[Locoweed]

My vote is for hiring a pro.

 

[k0ua]

I have sawed several little ones at 30 ft with my pole saw, but never tackled one as big as that and would not for the reasons already given (limb over your head) ..I would try the rope saw though. Amazon has them for 40 bucks, but you need to add some rope to it and the 2 guys sounds about right to me.

James K0UA

 

[dusty3030]

Shotgun. I use one with a turkey choke and cheapest 8 bird shot I have on hand. Works very well.

 

[texasjohn]

Mythbusters used a 50 Cal automatic machine gun to cut a large tree trunk in two...another tool you could get for later use:thumbsup: