How to Get a Pole Saw Unstuck?

Richard McMann

Knowledge Based

If you’ve ever had a pole saw jam mid-cut, hanging awkwardly in a tree, you know the feeling, equal parts annoyance and worry. I’ve had it happen on jobs where everything seemed to be going smoothly, then suddenly, the saw wouldn’t budge. Getting a stuck pole saw loose without damaging the tool or yourself comes down to understanding what caused the bind and knowing how to work it free safely. Here’s how I handle it every time.

How to Get a Pole Saw Unstuck.

Why Do Pole Saws Get Stuck in the First Place?

Binding, Pinching, and Gravity at Work

Pole saws usually get stuck because of pinching or blade binding. As you’re cutting through a branch, the weight can shift, causing the wood to clamp down on the bar. This is especially common when you cut upward into a branch without making a relief cut. Gravity pulls the branch into the saw, and the cut closes in on the blade. Add a dull chain to the mix, and things get worse fast; slower cutting increases resistance, making binding almost inevitable.

“Improper cutting angles and lack of relief cuts are the number one cause of stuck saws,” says Andrew Beck, arborist and founder of SafeTree Trimming Co. “It’s avoidable with the right technique.”

How to Safely Free a Stuck Pole Saw?

Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess

Don’t jerk the saw; it might feel like the quickest fix, but sudden movements can damage the blade or cause injury if it slips loose. Instead, take a breath and look at the branch. Is the limb sagging onto the saw? That pressure is what needs to be relieved.

Step 2: Relieve Pressure on the Cut

Try lifting or pushing the branch gently. Sometimes a light nudge with another pole or your hand, only if it’s safe, can shift the weight enough to release the saw. The goal is to reopen the kerf, the gap made by the cut, so the blade has room to slide out.

Step 3: Wiggle, Don’t Yank

Once pressure is reduced, slowly rock the saw side to side while applying backward pressure. Controlled movement is key. If you jerk it, you risk deeper binding or a sudden release that could knock you off balance.

Step 4: Make a Second Cut if Needed

If the saw won’t budge, consider making another cut. A relief cut from a different angle above or beside the blade can reduce pressure and let you pull the saw out safely.

“I always carry a small handsaw just in case. Making a quick side cut is sometimes the only way to free a stuck blade safely,” says Laura Dunning, forestry tools expert at TrimPro Gear.

Step 5: Inspect Your Saw Before Continuing

Once it’s out, take a moment to look over the chain and bar. Any bending, dullness, or damage means it’s time to stop and repair before making your next cut.

Preventing the Problem in the Future

Use Proper Relief Cuts

Cut a small notch on the underside of the branch before your main cut. This gives the branch a clean place to break and prevents the saw from being pinched.

Keep the Blade Sharp and Lubricated

A sharp chain cuts faster and with less force, reducing the chance of binding. Dull chains require more pressure and make messy cuts, both of which increase the risk of getting stuck.

Cut with the Right Angle

Avoid vertical upward cuts on heavy limbs unless you’ve made a relief cut first. Angled cuts let the branch fall cleanly and help you stay in control. Always position yourself so you can see the cut clearly and react if the branch shifts.

Final Takeaways: Smart Steps Beat Force Every Time

Getting a stuck pole saw loose isn’t about muscle; it’s about knowing what’s happening and handling it carefully. Relieve the pressure, use slow, controlled movements, and don’t hesitate to make a second cut when needed. Most importantly, learn from the experience. With the right cutting habits and regular maintenance, you’ll keep your pole saw moving smoothly and safely every time you reach for it.

Richard McMann
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