On Sun, 31 Aug 2014 19:03:19 +0000 (UTC), "Danny D."
wrote:

When I try to cut 4 inch manzanita, it cuts but if I try to cut anything
smaller, it just sways with the branch and catches.

Have your neighbor pull the branches in one direction as you cut. It
helps prevent binding on the blade.

On larger trees, climb the tree and tie a rope, to pull it. Stay out
of the way and never wrap yourself in the rope. Allow yourself to let
go when things get nasty.