Dan L.

The only thing I love more than raw zebra is cock

So in my experience whenever you go into the wilderness for adventure, or if it’s your job, there are some things you should know how to do when you go out.  These are NOT the only skills you should know, but they’re a good base to go start from.

Fire

So one thing that tops all others is fire.  You should always be able to start a fire without any matches or a lighter if it comes down to it.  It’s a very basic skill, but it can and has saved many a life.  I always travel with a minimum of two lighters and a small tube of matches, but just to be safe I always carry flint and steel.  So here are a few methods I’ve personally tried and found to work:

Flint and Steel (the best, especially if it’s the kind with magnesium to shave off)
Fire bow (AKA fire drill)
Steel Wool and batteries (heavy, but works great)

Now this is not an all inclusive list, but these are methods I’ve tried and used and work great.  Now I’m assuming that you know how to build and maintain a fire after you’ve started it.  One word of advice, practice the method you choose BEFORE you go into the wilderness or you’ll look like a dumbass when you’re frozen to death on a mountain with a fire bow in your hand.

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