A rope saw is a flexible chain blade with a rope on each end: a weighted line is thrown over the branch, the blade is drawn up onto the limb, and alternating pulls on the two ropes saw through it from the ground. The blade settles edge down against the wood and cuts three sides of the branch at once.

Why does a rope saw cut three sides of a branch at once?

Because the chain blade bends over the limb instead of meeting it along one straight edge. As the ropes pull it down against the branch, the blade rests across the top and both sides, and its teeth cut in both directions, so every pull on either rope deepens the cut.

How is a rope saw set up on a branch?

In four steps, all from the ground:

• The weight is thrown over the branch, carrying one rope with it
• The blade is drawn up until it sits across the limb
• The homeowner steps aside, well away from where the branch will fall
• One rope is held in each hand, ready to pull

How is a rope saw pulled through a limb?

With steady, alternating pulls. Pulling first one and then the other of the two 25 foot ropes on the TreeHelp Rope Saw: Homeowner drives its 24 inch Bimatic carbon steel blade back and forth through the wood until the limb drops.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a rope saw with handles for lower limbs?

Yes. Where the homeowner saw rides on long ropes, the TreeHelp Rope Saw: Camping puts a handle on each end of its 24 inch blade, cutting limbs up to 10 inches and weighing 4.5 oz.

Is there a rope saw with a longer blade?

Yes. A 48 inch two way cutting blade, double the homeowner length, is what the TreeHelp Rope Saw: Professional brings to the same two 25 foot ropes and throwing weight.

Can one person run a rope saw?

Yes. Throwing the weight, stepping aside, and pulling both ropes are all steps for one person working from the ground.

Can a rope saw replace hiring a tree service?

Often, for limbs a weight can be thrown over, which avoids the cost of a tree care professional. A job beyond a homeowner's skill still calls for an expert.