I posted this on the Busse sub-forum over on BF already. But since it concerns the DF this is the proper place for it.

I have been itching to try out my DF so I thought I'd start a "Fire starting skills" thread to see the various ways we all do this. A sharing of skills. I will use my NO-E next. I am no expert but have a system that works really well for me at home in the city and on trips to the much colder mountains. I will just add a little info with each picture.

My new DF. It has only seen some test chops.


Some wood beam scraps, my DF in an RD-9 sheath, tire mallet, Swedish steel, some dryer lint and a Recycler (last two for kinling).


Here I have batonned the wood into 3 different sizes.


The method I use is like a pyramid. I can't remember where I saw this. You start with two large pieces and set them parallel to one another about one foot apart. Put some kinlin in between the two. Then place 3 or 4 sticks perpendicularly across the to bottom ones. Add some kinling. Keep alternating in a horizontal and vertical patern each time as you build upwards. I also make it narrower such as with the shape of a pyramid.


I love using Sweedish steel. I keep it in the small pocket, with the DF, on the RD-9 sheath. Here I use dryer lint (which I also keep with the Sweedish steel. One stike on the Sweedish steel and I have fire. I throw in some leaves, moss, or paper (in this case) and then quickly scoop it all up and place it into the wood pyramid.


This quickly ignites the fire. The arrangement of the wood provides lots of ventilation and causes the flames to creep up the center of the pyramid of wood.


Fire in the hood. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />


I give the DF a quick going over with some soap and water and a sponge. And the best part is that it is still shaving sharp.



Not the most advanced but it works nicely for me and is a hoot!

What can I say. The DF is a born and bread chopper. I wish I had scored 2. Great work Dan and the crew at SY! Thanks.