I was at work today cutting trees that were blocking the signs on the highway and came up on a bent over one. It was about 4" dia. and was at about a 45deg. angle. I remembered an earlier post http://www.sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php?t=12462 and took a second look before cutting. Didn't have a strap or anything but sorta knew what to expect. (Should have listened to the "little voice" and skipped this tree for today) The tree split just as described in the thread. I cut it a little and heard the cracking, breaked the chain as I stepped back, and BANG!. The tree split in half from the cut to about 3' up. It was so sudden and made a heck of a noise, scared the beejeebers out of me and the other guys. The one guy cuts trees on the side and said he never seen that happen before. I'm glad people here know whats up and how to do it safely as I could'a been in a world o' hurt! Just wanted to say THANKS to everyone who posts their safety advice, I definitely appreciate it!
Joe