...and it actually works!
I found some DIY instructions online and made it using:
1. A 1/2" copper pipe stub (it's closed at one end)
2. A 1/2" wooden dowel
3. An appropriately sized o-ring (this took some experimenting).
I cut the pipe stub down to about 5" and smoothed out the cut edge well. Then I cut the dowel to about 7" and carefully made a notch near the end with a small file. I also hollowed out the end with a drill to make a tinder cup.
Next, I sealed the business end of the dowel with super glue to make sure it was air tight. I also coated it with urethane stain. I lubed the o-ring with a bit of Vaseline.
Finally, I stuck a rubber furniture foot knob on the other end of the dowel. There is space under it for a spare o-ring and a bit of char cloth.
It works pretty consistently, although it would work more easily with smaller diameter tubing and dowels.
I don't think I would rely on such a thing for my main fire starter, but it is a cool little gadget to add to my repertoire.
I found some DIY instructions online and made it using:
1. A 1/2" copper pipe stub (it's closed at one end)
2. A 1/2" wooden dowel
3. An appropriately sized o-ring (this took some experimenting).
I cut the pipe stub down to about 5" and smoothed out the cut edge well. Then I cut the dowel to about 7" and carefully made a notch near the end with a small file. I also hollowed out the end with a drill to make a tinder cup.
Next, I sealed the business end of the dowel with super glue to make sure it was air tight. I also coated it with urethane stain. I lubed the o-ring with a bit of Vaseline.
Finally, I stuck a rubber furniture foot knob on the other end of the dowel. There is space under it for a spare o-ring and a bit of char cloth.
It works pretty consistently, although it would work more easily with smaller diameter tubing and dowels.
I don't think I would rely on such a thing for my main fire starter, but it is a cool little gadget to add to my repertoire.