Starting a fire by hand without using a lighter or matches can be a challenging but rewarding skill to learn. Several methods can be used to start a fire by hand, each with its advantages and challenges. Some of the most common methods include the following:
- Fire plow: This method involves using a piece of softwood, such as cedar or basswood, to create a groove in a denser wood. To do this, hold the softwood in one hand and the harder wood in the other. Rub the softwood back and forth along the groove to generate friction and heat. Once the groove is hot enough, it will smoke and eventually catch fire. Apply a light sprinkle of tinder to start a larger flame.
- Bow drill: This method involves using a bow to spin a drill made from a stick and a piece of string. To create the fire, place the drill onto a piece of wood and use the bow to spin it back and forth, generating friction and heat. Once the wood is hot enough, it will smoke and eventually catch fire. Apply a light sprinkle of tinder to start a larger flame.
- Hand drill: This method is similar to the bow drill but does not require a bow. Instead, the drill is spun between the palms of the hands to generate friction and heat. Once the wood is hot enough, it will smoke and eventually catch fire. Apply a light sprinkle of tinder to start a larger flame.
- Flint and steel: This method involves using a piece of flint or other hard, sharp rock to strike a piece of steel, such as a knife blade, to create sparks. The sparks are then directed onto a piece of tinder, such as dry grass or leaves, to start the fire. Once a flame appears, use a piece of hemp wick to transfer the flame around to light the rest of your campfire.
Hemp wick is an excellent tool for transferring a flame to other parts of the campfire or other vessels, such as torches, grills, stoves, lamps, heaters, tobacco, and CBD. Click here to learn how to use hemp wick.
Starting a fire by hand without a lighter or matches requires practice and patience, but it can be valuable in survival, camping, or hiking. With the proper techniques and materials, anyone can learn to start a fire by hand and enjoy the warmth and light it provides. Fully extinguish the fire after use. Never leave a fire unattended!