Hollow Out the Back for Weight Reduction and Plumbing

What happens here

After preparing the top and back, the log is laid on its side. Using a large chainsaw (specifically a Makita), the craftsman makes several deep, parallel cuts into the back section of the log. These cuts are then cross-cut to create smaller, removable blocks of wood. An axe and sledgehammer are used to pry and knock out these sections, effectively hollowing out the back side. This process reduces the overall weight of the stump and creates space for plumbing, which will be hidden against the wall. A smaller Makita chainsaw was also used for finer cuts, but lacked the depth for the main hollowing. The goal is to lighten the stump and provide a flat surface for wall installation and plumbing.

Goal: Reduce the log's weight and create space for plumbing against the wall.