There are often times when you need to saw a branch or attach a rope higher in a tree than you want to climb. These tasks can often be done from the ground or a secure perch on a ladder.
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I don't like to use a chain saw more than 15 feet up, and that height is decreasing each year. To extend my sawing arm, I attach a bow saw to a pole with duct tape. This allows quick change for different sized poles and different cutting angles. I have found the modified bow saw much faster (and cheaper) than a pruning saw. Bamboo is light, aluminum is more rigid. 20 feet is pushing the limit for weight and wobble. The angle helps put pressure on the cutting edge. |
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If you are felling a tree or cutting a large branch, rope and cable can help direct they fall and keep you back from the action. The higher you place the cable, the more leverage you have. The simplest way to secure a line is to throw a threaded object over the attachment point. I use a crescent wrench and twine. Once the twine is in place, use it to pull a rope over, and then a cable if necessary. Make a loop in the end and pull the other end through the loop. Pull to secure. If my aim is not good enough for a crowded attachment point, I use a long pole with a V hook in the end. Once the wrench is over the crotch, jiggle the pole to let the weight pull the twine down to the ground. |
 I used a 20 foot bamboo pole inserted into a 10 foot aluminum pole (and a 30 foot ladder) to set the rope and cable in the oak tree. |
A word of warning: whenever you are cutting a tree or large branch, hook a chain around it above the cut. This will prevent it from splitting (barber chairing) and falling who knows where. Better yet, higher a professional to do the dangerous work.