Different Ways to Start a Campfire
Using Matches, Lighters, Magnesium, and Primitive Techniques
Oct 24, 2008
While on a camping trip, it can be helpful to know different ways to start a campfire or to light the camp stove. Knowing how to use more standard methods, such as matches and lighters, is good, but what if these items are accidentally left at home or lost? Below are some ideas for making a fire that includes regular techniques, as well as some more creative options.
Using Matches to Start a Campfire
Matches are a common way to light a fire. They are cheap and lightweight. Strike-anywhere matches can be used on many surfaces to ignite, and combined with some dry tinder, can quickly start a fire. Carry matches in a small, plastic, waterproof container that is always left in the pack.
Using Lighters to Start a Campfire
Cigarette lighters are another cheap and lightweight option. They do not require a separate striking surface to ignite, and can be quickly relit if the flame goes out or fails to light the tinder. Lighters can be purchased at convenience stores. REI sells the Colibri Extreme II Wind Resistant Lighter. This lighter is designed for use at altitudes up to 13,000 feet, is wind resistant, and burns butane fuel that can be refilled.
Starting a Fire With a Magnesium Strip or Scraper
Magnesium strips or can be used again and again to start a fire and are lightweight. Using a knife, one can scrape the magnesium shavings into some tinder, then ignite the shavings by scraping the knife against the sparker. A similar method is a scraper that utilizes technology similar to flint and steel to create a spark. Both items can be found at outdoor retailer stores, such as REI.
Primitive Fire-Making Techniques
There are several primitive fire-making techniques that can create fire. It takes skill and practice to master these methods, but once learned these can be helpful.
- Bow drill set: This method involves using a fireboard, spindle, top piece, and a wooden bow with string or leather. By pulling the bow back and forth while creating downward pressure onto the spindle and into the fireboard, an ember forms in a hole in the fireboard. This ember can then be transferred to tinder and blown into flames.
- Hand drill: Similar to a bow drill, hand drills utilize a thin stick or reed that is rotated by spinning it with the hands downward into a hole, creating an ember.
Keeping Fire Starting Material Available
Always have two different methods for starting fire in the pack. Keep a lighter in the first aid kit and a scraper system clipped to the keychain or backpack. Store matches in a dry place. Have some dry tinder available as well, such as some lint from the laundry dryer.
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