How to Create a Fire Without Matches

For a real back-to-nature adventure, leave the matches at home

If you camp, fish or otherwise spend a lot of time in the wilderness, you may one day have to start a fire without matches. Get in youch with your primitive side by using the tools nature provides. Make sure you have the equipment to extinguish the fire completely before you start.

Things You'll Need

• Wood
• Tinder
• Magnifying glass
• Rock
• Flint

Instructions

1. Use a magnifying glass and tinder to start the fire. Focus the sun's rays on a dry pile of tinder. When the glass is hot enough, the tinder will ignite.

2. Rub two sticks together. Get a flat piece of wood and carve out a hole near the edge. Create two spindles -- two long, thin pieces of wood -- and insert them into the hole. Rub them together quickly between your hands until you create a spark.

3. Use the flint-steel method by striking a piece of steel with flint until the collision creates a spark. Strike the steel over a nest of tinder that will ignite when the spark lands on it.

Tips & Warnings

• Use dry wood only.

• Keep your matches dry.

• Don't use the magnesium firestarter indoors.

References

• Field and Stream: Seven Ways to Start a Fire Without a Match
• Practical Survivor: Flint and Steel Fire