Selection and Use of an Increment Borer

Proper Selection of an Increment Borer

There are many different options and choices to be made when choosing an increment borer. In this document, the different choices are broken down and answers provided for questions that may arise concerning the proper selection of an increment borer.

Length and Diameter

Proper size is the first choice that must be made when choosing a borer. Make sure that the borer chosen is as long as half the diameter of the tree. Owning a borer for every size tree is not practical. It is generally best to find out the average diameter of the trees that will be cored and choose the borer for that diameter. For example if the trees that are normally cored average 30–32" dia., a 16" increment borer can be used to get an accurate measure of the tree. The length of the borer is measured from the tip of the threads to the end of the round section of the borer.

The next choice is the corer diameter. The most popular sizes are 4.35 mm, 5 mm, and 5.15 mm. The 5.15 mm is the most popular since the core size is easiest to read. Larger diameters are available, but they are used to measure fiber length.

Threading

There are two different thread styles available on the market. Each one has its advantages. Two-thread borers are primarily used in hardwoods since they generate more power and turn slower in the tree reducing the potential for damage to the borer. Three-thread borers are easier to start into the tree and turn faster once in the tree.

Proper Use of An Increment Borer

Once an increment borer has been selected, the following steps should be taken to ensure long life of the borer.

Assembly

The first step is to unscrew the knob at the end of the handle. This is the extractor that holds the bit inside the handle. The next step is to insert the bit/core auger/borer into the handle. Put the square end through the hole in the handle and secure the flip lock over the bit to hold the borer to the handle. The borer is now ready for use.

Operating Instructions

When starting the increment borer into the tree, use only slight to moderate pressure. It is important to use slight to moderate pressure ONLY in order to prevent damage to the corer. Make sure the borer is perpendicular to the tree. This ensures a valid core to give an accurate cross-section of the tree for later examination.

Once the borer is started in the tree, approximately 1–1 1/2", remove the pressure and just gently turn the corer into the tree. When the desired depth has been reached, insert the extractor fully into the bit. The extractor should be inserted with the concave side of the extractor facing down . While keeping the knob of the extractor pressed against the handle, rotate the borer one half turn counter clockwise to remove the core from the tree. The extractor should end up with the concave position facing up. Remove the extractor by gently pulling on the knob. The core will be in the extractor. Remove the bit from the tree before reading the corer. If you fail to do this, the extractor can become locked into the tree. You can now read the core and put it back into the tree or store the core to be read at the end of the day.

Maintenance and Storage

Increment borers should be cleaned before storage. Tree sap and moisture can etch, pit or otherwise damage the borer making in ineffective. Cleaning can be with WD-40® brand lubricant or any light oil and a tissue or cloth. If the bit starts to rust, substitute a fine steel wool for the tissue. After cleaning, beeswax may be applied to the borer threads and shank for ease of operation and to help protect the tip.

Make sure that all of the borer parts are dry prior to storage. To store the borer, push the flip lock in the opposite direction and take out the bit. Put the bit back into the handle and put the extractor inside the bit and screw the knob tight. Make sure to store the borer in a dry place.

Commonly Asked Questions

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Please Note: The information contained in this publication is intended for general information purposes only. This publication is not a substitute for review of the applicable government regulations and standards, and should not be construed as legal advice or opinion. Readers with specific questions should refer to the cited regulation or consult with an attorney.