Finding dry tinder ?

[SouthernCross]

G'day Everyone.

Some recent wet weather and a discussion with Bryan Breeden about tinder, prompted me to dedicate this post to the search for dry tinder in wet conditions.

As the vegetation type within our local areas will probably vary, I would like this post to focus on where you look for dry tinder.

First and foremost, I've found that dryer wood will always be found sitting off the ground. Either it's the way the branch sits, or the fact the limb has been "hung up" , will all contribute to wood being able to be found off the ground.

Both are a source of dryer kindling.


Next I keep an eye out for where the kindling has been sheltered from the rain. These can found where debris have piled up (the upper layers help to protect the lower layers) or where an undercut tree or rock overhang can shelter what's underneath. Bark can also shelter anything underneath it.

Tree hollows can also shelter tinder from the rain (obviously dependent on wind direction).

Please feel free to show some of the spots you look for dry tinder :thumbup:



Kind regards
Mick

 

[mkhop]

All excellent places to obtain dry tinder. Once you get a fire going you can dry tinder for the next fire keeping the dry stuff in your kit.

 

[Idaho Jarhead]

Southern Cross, I have been enjoying reading yours different posts. You have a lot of great information you are putting out. Thanks!

Since I live in a very wet climate, learning to baton through the wet stuff to get to the dry core has been very important. Like mkhop stated, I then try to dry out the other stuff once the fire is going. Of course, there is a limit to that as well; sometimes only time will help.

 

[sicily02]

Hi all,

Mick, great post. I am getting ready to leave for the day X-mas eve. but when i get back and I will take a few pics and post some for where I am. Great chatting with ya.

Bryan

 

[kgd]

Good post. Don't forget the lint from your socks and pockets trick.

 

[GEC]

Awesome posts Mick! You have definitely given this board plenty of good info! I don't know about sticking my hand in holes that I can see into though.
Here in NJ, I would look for dried out pine needles under all of the pines. Not to mention tons of fat wood to be had here too. Sometimes you have to baton dead branches to get to the dry stuff. Providing that it isn't rotten all the way through. You can also scrap lint off your jeans.

 

[PB Wilson]

Mick, thank you for your excellent pics and practical ideas. You're an asset to this forum. Keep 'em coming!

 

[tonym]

Mick, thank you for your excellent pics and practical ideas. You're an asset to this forum. Keep 'em coming!

:thumbup:

We have alot of large trees that are down over here, I can ussually find tons of dry wood or leaves under them, usually closer to the base.