Outdoor Blog

5 Ways to Start a Fire Without Matches or Lighters

Published

4 years ago

April 19, 2021

So, you’re stranded somewhere and need fire to keep warm or you want to be more prepared in case that ever happens? Starting a fire without matches or lighters is a crazy idea to some people. But, sometimes it’s your only option. To be better prepared in survival situations, here are five ways to start a fire without lighters or matches!

The first thing you need before trying to start any fire is dry tinder. It’s the perfect fire starter, and it can be found about anywhere. However, the best option is to buy a tinder kit somewhere like Amazon, which usually consists of items like cotton balls and paracord. An alternative to a tinder kit is char cloth.

Gathering kindling and tinder is one of the most important parts of building a fire.

Although, natural tinder is everywhere; tinder could be dry grass, the fluff of cattails, and pieces of bark. Not only do you need tinder, but you also need kindling. The two aren’t very different, but kindling should be held onto so you can keep your fire going. You can use dry wood, dry leaves, and small twigs.

Kindling is just as important as tinder, so don’t go through the trouble of starting a fire if you haven’t gathered any kindling yet. Once you have plenty of tinder and kindling, go ahead and make your tinder nest. Fire starting can be relatively easy as long as you have patience. Plus, it’s a great survival skill to have under your belt.

1. Flint and Steel

This version might be a little old-fashioned, but it helps out when you’re in a bind. You’ll need a flint rock and a steel striker for this method. First, you place your tinder or char cloth on top of your flint rock and hold them together in one of your hands. Using the steel striker, strike down at a 30-degree angle to create a spark.

Once the sparks land on the char cloth or tinder, they will begin to smolder. Very carefully, transfer this ember to the rest of your tinder and blow gently until it catches on fire. If you’re really into hiking and camping, you should always carry flint and steel with you just in case. It’s a good option to have in case of emergencies.

2. Glass or Plastic

Remember how you might’ve lit an ant or two on fire with a magnifying glass as a kid? It actually works well in survival situations. The most important thing in this method is the sun; it won’t work unless the sun is shining. For this method, you can use a magnifying glass, a pair of eyeglasses, binocular lenses, or a full plastic water bottle. You can also polish the bottom of a soda can with toothpaste to make it work.

Once you pick your device, the rest is a waiting game. Line up your device with the sun so that it creates beams onto the ground. Once you’ve lined the device and sun up to where you want to build a fire, place your char cloth or tinder under the beam. Then, you wait. It’ll take a few minutes, but it’ll happen eventually. This method is good because it can be done by basically anyone anywhere. You don’t need special materials to start the flame; all you need is glass or plastic.

Starting a fire with flint and steel is probably the most popular way.

3. Friction

It’s a known fact: friction creates heat. And if it can create enough heat, it can start a fire. There are several ways to use friction to start a fire. There’s a bow drill, a hand drill, and a fire plow.

For the bow drill, you’ll need:

A fireboard: a half-inch piece of flat, dry, and dead softwood
A bowstring: paracord, shoelaces, or any kind of rope
A top piece / Socket: a piece of rock, shell, or bone
A bow wood: a sturdy piece of wood with a curve that extends from your arm to fingertip
A spindle: a piece of dry, dead softwood that’s about eight inches in length and one inch in diameter and has blunt points on both of its ends

First, create a hole that will fit the spindle in the fireboard by using a pocket knife. Next, create a V-shaped notch where you drill in the fireboard; this collects the coal and hot dust. Place your fireboard on top of a leaf or piece of wood to collect the ember.

Wrap the bowstring around the spindle, place the spindle in the hole in the fireboard, and put the socket on top of the spindle to hold it in place. Apply downward pressure to the socket and begin moving the bowstring back and forth until it starts to smoke. Continue moving the bowstring for a few more minutes so an ember can be formed. Then, use the bark or leaf to transfer the ember to your tinder or char cloth.

The hand drill method is fairly similar to the bow drill method. For this method, you’ll need:

A spindle: a piece of softwood or pithy wood that has a length between 18 and 24 inches and the diameter of your pinky and has slightly pointy ends
A fireboard: a half-inch thick piece of dry, dead softwood

The main difference between the hand and bow drill methods is that you use your hands for this one. Create a hole in this fireboard with a pocketknife, and then create a V-shaped curve in the board to catch the coal and hot dust. Next, place the fireboard on top of a leaf or piece of bark to collect the ember.

Put the spindle in the hole, place your hands on both sides of the spindle, and rub your hands back and forth. After you create enough friction to create smoke, transfer the ember onto your char cloth or tinder.

For a fire plow, or a fire plough, you’ll need:

A fireboard: a flat piece of wood (sotol, hibiscus, cedar, juniper, and other softwood) with a six or an eight-inch groove
A plow: a two to a three-inch piece of flat, wide wood that has an angled head that fits into the groove of the fireboard

First, hold your plow at a 45-degree angle to the piece of fireboard. Next, begin moving the plow up and down on the groove. Do this quickly, and a lump of burning coal will form. All of these friction methods work very well, and they can be done with resources you find in the woods.

4. Batteries and Steel Wool

Because of the magnesium in batteries, it immediately catches fire when put against steel wool. You’ll need either a 9-volt battery or two AA/AAA batteries. For the 9-volt battery, simply set it in the bundle of steel wool. Then, a fire will start automatically.

For the two AA/AAA batteries, you’ll need to tape them in a row so they don’t move. Then, pull off a piece of steel wool out of the pile and connect one of its ends to the positive side of the first battery. Next, take the opposite end of the steel wool and connect it to the negative side of the second battery. It’ll make a kind of circuit, and the circuit will create sparks to ignite your steel wool.

This method can be very dangerous if you don’t take caution. You’ll need to keep a distance from the battery while it’s sparking and be extra careful. However, it’s an easy method that can be done very quickly. Just be aware of what you’re doing.

5. Chemicals

While it’s highly unlikely that you’ll have chemicals on you, it’s still a method worth mentioning. These methods are very dangerous and should only be used in life and death emergency situations. For the first chemical method, you’ll need potassium permanganate and glycerin/sugar.

First, pour some potassium permanganate onto a rock to create a small well on the rock. Next, add some glycerin to the potassium permanganate and wait for a few minutes. The mixture will catch on fire. As for sugar, use the blunt end of a stick to crush them together. Make sure to keep these chemicals apart when hiking.

The next mixture includes ammonium nitrate, table salt (sodium chloride), zinc powder, and water. First, mix four grams of ammonium nitrate and one gram of table salt, and grind them together with a rock. Next, mix ten grams of zinc powder into the mixture. Add a few drops of water, and wait for the mixture to catch fire. Again, keep these chemicals apart while hiking because they could combust if accidentally mixed.

Starting a fire without matches or lighters is a great skill to have.

What if it’s Raining?

Another dilemma when you’re trying to start a fire is that it’s wet outside. Your tinder is wet, and there isn’t anything dry around you. Is all hope lost? No, you can still start a fire if you’re resourceful enough. Start by finding dry tinder.

It might seem impossible, but if you have a pocket knife, it’s very possible. Go to a birch or cedar tree and start to peel back layers of bark until you get to a spot that’s dry. Make sure you gather enough to keep as a backup. Next, find a standing dead tree.

Dead trees that are laying on the forest floor are often wet on the inside, but standing dead trees are dry on the inside. Peel away the wet, rotted outer section of the trunk and eventually, you’ll reach the dry wood. Use this wood as your kindling.

The good news is that once the fire has caught and really started burning, you can feed it with damp twigs and limbs. The heat will be strong enough to catch the damp wood and burn it up. The hardest part is finding dry wood. However, it is possible.

Best Types of Wood for Starting Fire

When you’re collecting wood for a fire, you might not know what works best for campfires. While all wood will burn, some wood is better than others. Your choice of wood is important because you’ll want wood that burns longer and hotter. The best kinds of wood are oak, hickory, ash, and cedar.

Oak is arguably the best kind of wood to use in campfires. Oak burns slow and steady while producing substantial heat. Also, oak is one of the most common woods that is found in North America. Hickory wood is one of the best kinds of wood in terms of burning. It burns hotter than oak and maple. Hickory is a hardwood that’s very dense, so it can be hard to split. However, it burns very well and holds little moisture.

Ash trees have about 50 different species and are known as some of the best firewood in the world. Ashwood doesn’t produce a lot of smoke and burns really well. It doesn’t retain water easily either! Ashwood will also burn when it’s green.

Cedarwood doesn’t produce a big flame, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in heat. Cedarwood is ideal for chilly nights. Also, cedar smells very good! Some woods that you might want to avoid are poplar, spruce, willow, and alder.

Fire Starting Techniques to Avoid

When building a fire, there are some things that you just shouldn’t do. First of all, don’t pick anything off the wet ground to feed your fire. It won’t burn. Next, don’t use rotten wood. Bacteria and fungi are the two main things that cause wood to rot, and they cause it to lose its fuel value.

You also need to make sure that you use enough tinder. The best amount of tinder is two big handfuls to ensure that it creates a strong foundation. Another thing to avoid is lighting your fire into the wind. Fire can be blown out easily, so finding a place with little wind is key.

Ways to Put Out a Fire

Say your fire has gotten a little out of hand. What do you do? There are a couple of things you could do in these circumstances. Here are ten ways to put out a fire. Pour water on it. It might seem like the easiest thing to do, but some people do forget about water.

This is the quickest method and the best method in case of an emergency. Another thing you can do is douse the fire in dirt or sand. This method takes a little bit longer, so water is your best option. In case of an emergency, the first thing to do is not panic. Don’t throw the water down; you’ll want to spread it slowly so the smoke doesn’t spread.

Start by spreading the water around the outside of the fire to make it smaller in size. Walking in a spiral around the fire while pouring the water onto it is the best way to do this. Even if you think the fire is out, grab a stick and move the kindling around. If you see any red embers, pour more water on them. Stir the kindling and tinder until you don’t see any more red embers.

Final Verdict

Flint and steel is the best way to start a fire if you don’t have matches or lighters. They’re lightweight, and they don’t require a long setup time. It only takes a couple of strikes to start a spark, and you’ll have a fire in no time!

Outdoor Blog

Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season

Published

2 months ago

September 25, 2024

Caleb Cole

Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.

Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures

If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.

Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.

What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?

One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.

This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.

Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have

Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.

The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.

Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience

Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.

These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.

Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience

A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.

Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.

Outdoor Blog

Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

Published

3 months ago

August 26, 2024

Caleb Cole

As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

Choosing Your Adventure

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

Plan a Camping Trip

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

Map Your Route

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

Pack Smart

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

5 months ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.