It’s cold, and I like warm.
by Todd Walker
What’s the best tinder material when making a fire is essential?
The best answer is dry, fibrous material which catches a spark even in wet conditions. Fire starting woes are compounded when the dry stuff isn’t available. Every bushcraft, camping, hiking, or emergency kit should include redundant layers for making fire.
The usual suspects for combustion tools include:
- Lighters
- Ferro rods (ferrocerium), AKA firesteels
- Flint and steel
- Magnesium bars
- Fire pistons
- Plain ol’ matches or storm matches
A flick from your Bic doesn’t guarantee fire. It may produce a flame (depending on conditions) but you’ll need dry tinder in your fire lay to get warm. Preparing a fire kit ahead of time will help you avoid a freezing night or worse.
Commercially produced fire starters are available. Why pay 8 to 10 bucks for a pack of waterproof fire starter tabs when you can make your own? I’ve been…
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