Certified Arborist Practice Exam

What does a drop cut refer to?

1. A covering for a handsaw or polesaw blade

2. A 3-point cut

3. These types of ropes are not recommended for natural crotch rigging because the friction causes an imbalance in the load taken by the core and cover braids

4. The use of ropes and other equipment to remove trees or branches

The correct answer is: A 3-point cut

A drop cut is accurately described as a specific type of cut made in tree felling, which is characterized as a 3-point cut. This method involves making three cuts to ensure a controlled and safe dropping of the tree or branch being removed. The technique typically includes an undercut, a back cut, and a finishing cut, which collectively allow for better control over the direction of fall and minimize the risk of unexpected branch movement or breakage. The other choices provide information that does not directly relate to the definition of a drop cut. For instance, the first option pertains to a protective cover used on saw blades, which is unrelated to the felling technique discussed. The third choice mentions issues related to rope types and their effectiveness in rigging scenarios but again strays from the topic of cutting methods. Lastly, the fourth option broadly addresses the use of ropes and equipment in tree removal, which encompasses a wider range of practices beyond the specific cutting technique of a drop cut.