Hi Paul;
Professional chain saw training in maine now involves a method of cutting where you make a notch and then plung your saw through the tree being sure to not to cut the hinge. Then, the last part you cut is the farthest point from the notched side. This, they say, is the safest method of cutting.
I do not know what this method is called. I looked quickly online but nothing came up. I thought there might be a video showing what I am talking about.
Jim, I'm pretty sure it's called "hinge and latch", with the latch being the last cut you mention that 'unlatches' the stem.
