Open-Faced Notch vs. Conventional Notch vs. Humboldt Notch: Which One Should You Use?
When felling a tree, the type of notch you use determines how controlled and predictable the fall will be. Different notch types offer varying levels of precision, safety, and efficiency. Choosing the right one is crucial for preventing accidents, protecting property, and ensuring a successful cut.
In this article, we’ll compare the three most common tree felling notches—open-faced, conventional, and Humboldt—to help you understand which one is best for different situations.
Why the Notch Matters in Tree Felling
The notch is the first cut made when felling a tree. It controls the direction of the fall, ensures a stable hinge, and reduces the risk of splitting. A poorly executed notch can cause a tree to fall unpredictably, which is why professionals carefully select the right notch based on the tree’s size, lean, and surrounding environment.
The three most common notches used in tree felling are:
Open-Faced Notch – Maximum control
Conventional Notch – A balanced approach
Humboldt Notch – Best for steep slopes
Each has its strengths and limitations depending on the conditions. Let’s break them down in detail.
1. Open-Faced Notch: Maximum Control and Precision
How It Works:
Made with two cuts:
Top cut: Angled downward at 70 degrees
Bottom cut: A horizontal cut that meets the top cut, forming a wide open "V" shape
Best For:
When maximum control is needed
Felling trees near buildings, roads, or structures
Trees on uneven terrain or slopes
Why It’s Effective:
The wide-angle opening allows for a slow and controlled fall
Keeps the hinge intact for longer, preventing sudden shifts
Minimizes tree splitting, especially in hardwoods
Limitations:
Takes more time and precision to execute
May not be necessary for smaller trees or open areas
Ideal for professional arborists working in urban or high-risk environments
2. Conventional Notch: A Classic, Balanced Approach
How It Works:
Made with two cuts:
Top cut: Angled downward at 45 degrees
Bottom cut: A horizontal cut meeting the top cut, creating a smaller notch
Best For:
A faster and simpler tree felling method
Trees on flat ground where precision is less critical
Situations where a quicker fall is acceptable
Why It’s Effective:
Quicker and easier to cut than the open-faced notch
Works well for medium to large trees
Reduces hinge strength earlier, leading to a faster fall
Limitations:
Less control compared to the open-faced notch
Higher risk of splitting, especially in brittle trees
Ideal for loggers and professionals working in large forests where speed is a priority
3. Humboldt Notch: The Go-To for Steep Slopes
How It Works:
Made with two cuts:
Bottom cut: A horizontal cut
Top cut: An upward angled cut meeting the bottom cut, creating an inverted wedge
Best For:
Felling tall trees on steep slopes
When a low stump height is needed
Large trees with heavy trunks
Why It’s Effective:
Reduces stump height, making land clearing easier
Prevents the tree from kicking back when falling downhill
Minimizes wood waste, often used in logging operations
Limitations:
Not as effective for precise directional control
Can be more difficult to execute correctly
Ideal for felling trees in mountainous regions and large-scale logging operations
Side-by-Side Comparison
Which Tree Felling Cut Should You Use?
🔹 If precision is your top priority → Use the open-faced notch
🔹 If you need a fast, balanced approach → Use the conventional notch
🔹 If you’re working on steep slopes → Use the Humboldt notch
Each of these cuts serves a specific purpose. Choosing the right one depends on safety, terrain, and the surrounding environment.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Notch for the Job
Tree felling is both an art and a science. Professionals assess the situation carefully before making their first cut. The notch type is just one part of a larger strategy that includes tree assessment, hinge wood control, and precise execution.
Always remember—when in doubt, consult a professional.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide professional training or certification in tree felling. Tree cutting is extremely dangerous and should only be performed by trained professionals with the proper safety equipment. If you need a tree removed, contact a certified arborist.
