success

[tonym]

That bowdrill looks like its goin to be a pain.

I always thought it looked easy, then I tried it; a pain is an understatement!

I do believe once you do get a coal, it is one of the best feelings you will experience.

It gives you a sense of pride and confidence in your abilities to work with nature.

I have gotten a coal numerous times with white cedar, poplar, and basswood. Each wood worked diffently and more times than not it took me alot of failed attempts before I got it. White Cedar was the easiest for me.

I am still not confident enough to depend on it as a fire source if out in the woods, but again it gives you the confidence to know that if you have done it once you CAN do it again.

Docs link is great as well as K. Estela's powerpoint!

 

[DOC-CANADA]

A pain???????????

I guess it all depends on your perspective. My first coal was one of the highlights of my life. :thumbup:

Doc

 

[dipbait]

It will get easier each time you make it. Congrats.

I have always been able to start a fire with one of those ferro rods glued to a stick of magnesium. I never use the magnesium. Most of the time the fire starts very easily with natural tender that I gather on spot. I use the can opener on a Leatherman Kick. Use lots of pressure and go fast. Dried Fox Tail is the best , usually igniting on the first stroke.

 

[dipbait]

Many times Ill take a cigar on a hike. This cigar cannot be smoked until fire is made. Smoked it every time.