Episode 06: Solo Travel or Bust
Fire Starting with a Ferro Rod: A Paper Birch Bark Demonstration
Body:
Fire starting is one of the most important bushcraft and survival skills, and using a ferrocerium rod and paper birch bark is one of the most reliable techniques. In this video, I demonstrate how to ignite birch bark with just a ferro rod and a knife, showcasing a method that works in nearly any environment.
Watch the demonstration here.
Key Techniques
1. Preparing Birch Bark
Birch bark is an excellent natural tinder because of its high oil content. In the video, you’ll see how shredding and scraping the bark creates fine fibers that catch sparks with ease—even when the bark is slightly damp.
2. Using a Ferro Rod
The ferrocerium rod is a versatile and dependable fire-starting tool. By striking it with a knife at a controlled angle, it produces a concentrated shower of sparks hot enough to ignite the prepared birch bark.
3. Igniting the Fire
Once the spark catches, gentle blowing encourages the ember to grow into a flame. Adding progressively larger sticks and kindling allows the fire to build into a steady source of heat.
Why Birch Bark?
• Burns When Wet: Natural oils make it ideal for fire-starting in damp conditions.
• Lightweight and Abundant: Easy to collect in the wild and simple to carry.
• Highly Flammable: Perfect for catching sparks and sustaining a flame.
Watch and Learn
This video shows how minimal tools can create a reliable fire in the wild. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced bushcrafter, mastering this technique will boost your confidence and preparedness in the outdoors.
Watch the video now to learn how.
