What is a fuzz stick?

[cbach8tw]

I have read about someone in the outdoors making a fuzz stick, what is it and why do you need one? Just curious so I can relate to their comments.

 

[BarberFobic1992]

a fuzz stick basically just catches on fire more easily, so will make better kindling. the scientific explanation is that when you make a fuzz stich, it greatly enhances the surface areato volume ratio, making the stick heat up alot faster. that is also the reason that crushed ice cools things faster. i like to use my physics when the oppurtunity presents itself

 

[orrey45]

It is a stick that you carve to make a bunch of little ribbons of wood. It is also a sign of how sharp/good and knife is as well as the skill of the carver.

The main purpose other than looking cool is for fire starting. The increased surface area and air exposure allow sparks start a fire easier.

 

[Brian Jones]

Some pictures of fuzz sticks are here:
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=542939

There are many examples in this forum, often in knife revierws, since it is an essential bushcraft task.