Before you start down the path of learning technique, you need to have the right equipment for the job. Your equipment should all be in good repair and you should test it before using it on a tree. The following list covers the main pieces of equipment that would be needed to cut down a mature tree on your property.

• Chainsaw: This is perhaps the most important piece of equipment you’ll need. The chainsaw should have about 3.5 horsepower and it should have a 20 inch bar. The bar length indicates the depth that the blade can penetrate, so 20 inches should be enough to cut down most trees.
• Safety Glasses: Many people overlook the importance of using safety glasses when doing work like this. However, the truth is that flying debris can seriously harm your eyes when cutting with a chainsaw.
• Leg Protection: If you hit a knot in the tree, then the saw can kick out of the tree and hit you in the leg. It is recommended that you use either knee-high safety boots or wear heavy leg protectors.
• 1000 LB Test Rope: The rope should be roughly three times longer than your tree is high. It will be used as a safety backup in case there is an issue.