Everyone including me goes on about firesteels and primitive methods of starting fire, however, it has to be said that taking a simple Bic lighter AS WELL, just makes common sense.
Lighters have limitations, they won’t work when wet or very cold, they run out of fuel and they are easily broken. That said, in many situations they do work and make starting a fire simple.
This video shows you a few simple things you can do to improve a Bic lighter for survival use. It is well worth watching and it will only take you 2-3 minutes to pimp out your lighter. The tip about using duct-tape to help starting a fire alone, makes this video worth watching.
You can add two needles, two fish hooks, fishing line under the tape, and any number of other small items.
Those lighters are a lot tougher than you think. If they are cold, simply warm the striker side with your breath. If wet keep it close to your body for a half an hour or so. Problem solved. (I used to smoke)
They also make a great spark source when empty. So please keep those empty Bic lighters, it could save your life.
I didn’t catch where in the vid it says you can use duct tape to start a five. I think though I caught him saying about the duct tape wrapped lighter “so you have tinder…”.
Can someone clarify?
Duct tape is flammable.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnxIvZ4hqK8
Run a piece of paracord or bank line through the bottom of the can tab first. Gives the tape something extra to grip so the tab stays on better.
shove a 1×1 piece of rubber inner tube into the mix. Takes a spark well and will burn long enough to get damp material going