Used to climb every single removal with just a handsaw and a lanyard for years
Back when I started doing tree work in Portland about 6 years ago, I thought I was tough for taking down whole oaks with just a Silky saw and my 16 inch climbing lanyard. No chainsaw up the tree, no mechanical advantage for lowering branches, just muscle and patience. About 2 years in, I took a nasty swing from a hung-up limb that almost threw me off balance, and that was the day I switched to carrying a small top-handle saw and a proper friction saver. I still keep the handsaw in my bag for quick stuff, but idk how I managed those big removals without a chainsaw up there. Has anyone else had a close call that made them change their whole climbing setup?