What tool would I use to do this?

[highland145]

You may also consider a drawknife for bark removal. It will take longer, but provide a nicer surface. The adze tends to lead to more choppy surfaces. Crazy I know. 😀

There is an axe that's off set to one side for this. Can't remember the name.

Anyone?

Edit: Maybe I'm thinking of one to square up a log.

 

[Muse]

Thanks... whether or not I'm able to do this is contingent on whether or not I'm able to move a 6' to 8' section of the tree trunk up a steep hill. I have enough trunk that I can probably make 3-4 of these log planters, but if I can't move them they may just get cut up into firewood.

I may have to pull out my bigger brain, rig up some sort of block & tackle system, and engineer a solution.

Well, if you're going to cut the trunk into "3-4" sections it's going to be easier to get 3-4 pieces up the hill than the whole trunk in one piece, duh!

 

[Numenorean]

Do you have any metal pipes?

Lay down some 2x4's or such as a track, put 3-4 pipes on them and pull the log pieces on the pipes - as they come out the back, move them to the front, move the 2x4 tracks along as you run out. I've moved a 20'x15' or so tool shed this way.

 

[NuclearNed]

Do you have any metal pipes?

Lay down some 2x4's or such as a track, put 3-4 pipes on them and pull the log pieces on the pipes - as they come out the back, move them to the front, move the 2x4 tracks along as you run out. I've moved a 20'x15' or so tool shed this way.

I think I can come up with some pipes; this is basically the method I used last year to move some big logs up a hill. I'm sure the weight of this set of logs will be much heavier, though... they probably have a diameter of at least 3'. The trunk is lying somewhat close to my carport, so I'm also thinking that if I could come up with a strong enough rope or chain, I might be able to use my truck to pull them out.

 

[Numenorean]

I think I can come up with some pipes; this is basically the method I used last year to move some big logs up a hill. I'm sure the weight of this set of logs will be much heavier, though... they probably have a diameter of at least 3'. The trunk is lying somewhat close to my carport, so I'm also thinking that if I could come up with a strong enough rope or chain, I might be able to use my truck to pull them out.

Yeah, you could even just use the truck to pull it on the pipes.

 

[NuclearNed]

I came in expecting a typical "Epic NuclearNed" thread...I am disappoint...but it does have the opportunity for one at a later date...

You COULD use the tip of the chainsaw to gouge out the planter section. (like using the point of a knife)
Use the chainsaw to roughly shape the opening to what you want...search youtube for video tips on carving with a chainsaw.

I've been thinking about using the tip of the chainsaw... even though that is generally considered to be a major no-no. I've done it before without any problems. I would just have to be extra careful and anticipate that the saw might kick back.

 

[BoomerD]

I think I can come up with some pipes; this is basically the method I used last year to move some big logs up a hill. I'm sure the weight of this set of logs will be much heavier, though... they probably have a diameter of at least 3'. The trunk is lying somewhat close to my carport, so I'm also thinking that if I could come up with a strong enough rope or chain, I might be able to use my truck to pull them out.

Cut the logs to length, screw a large lag screw through a link of chain and into the center of the end of log. Pull the log like an elongated wheel...😛

 

[Numenorean]

I've been thinking about using the tip of the chainsaw... even though that is generally considered to be a major no-no. I've done it before without any problems. I would just have to be extra careful and anticipate that the saw might kick back.

Use the bottom of the tip and a bit of the edge. You may have to come at it from both directions. Let the saw do the work, don't try to shove it really hard, brace for kickbacks. Work the saw towards you easily and it should be fine. I think the main thing is to not bind it by moving it left or right, keep it straight, and don't put large amounts of pressure on it. It will not be super quick but if you start trying to muscle it you can run into trouble. Stay balanced, let the saw do the work.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OejWDAPZvg8

See at about :57. That's sorta how you need to do it. It will take time.

 

[MotF Bane]

Chainsaw alone is enough.

 

[ussfletcher]

Additionally you can drill it full of holes, like many.. many holes. and bust out the chunks as they become loose. I've done this before on stone foundations to put in vents. But I don't think this is as good a method as the chainsaw.

 

[Humpy]

Two easy ways can think of to hollow out the log....

One, make a series of plunge cuts, with the grain, with the chain saw an inch or so apart and then break out the pieces.

Two, drill a series of holes with a hole hog and a three inch self feeding auger to remove the bulk of material.

Both cases, clean up with a wide, sharp chisel.