Learn plunge cuts on the ground first.

Absolutely not a technique to pick up from a YouTube video mid-fell.

A plunge cut (also called a boring cut) is when you drive the tip of the bar straight into the trunk instead of cutting from the side. It lets you start the back cut while leaving a holding wood strip — that strip becomes your hinge. But it’s the most dangerous part of felling because of kickback risk and the loss of visual depth.

To do it safely: use a saw with a low-kickback bar and chain. Approach from the side, not directly behind the bar. Keep the chain at full throttle. Make your usual face cut first (notch), then go to the back side. You stab the tip in above the intended hinge level, then pivot the bar to cut rearward. The key is never letting the nose touch the tree without being buried—that’s what triggers kickback.

I’d practice on a log on the ground until you can place the cut exactly where you want it every time. Then get an experienced cutter to watch your first few in the woods. This is not a solo-learn skill.

Your hinge is your lifeline. Don’t learn it on a live tree standing over your feet.