I have wanted to make Fire using friction for a long time now, on many occasions I have been close with no success. That has now all changed for me once I finally got an ember.
This was while I was one a Bushcraft for Scout Leaders course with David Willis at Paccar Scout Camp in Chalfont.
You need water to survive, once you are protected from the elements and have set to work your rescue plan water will be your next priority.
Use game trails, follow animals or insects as these will lead to water sources like streams and rivers. Lush green vegetation might be a sign of an underground water source, you might also find water underground in dried river beds. You can find fluids in various plants and vegetation, in extreme situations you can even obtain fluids from animals. Sucking the fluid out of a fishes eye-ball may not be the most appetizing prospect, but it might just save your life.
Never let your supplies of water run low before you start to think about collecting it, act before you start to feel the effects of dehydration. Use whatever materials you have that would aid you in the collection of water such as large leafs, bin liners and metal panels as these can be used to collect rain or dew. You can also make a solar still to collect condensation from damp ground and vegetation.
Once you have collected your water you should purify it as drinking water that could make you sick can be worse than not drinking any water at all, as it will leave you dehydrated and weak. Boiling water for 5 minutes is sufficient, basic filtration of large particles can be achieved using an item of clothing such as a sock or bandana.
Improvise. Adapt. Overcome. Be inventive when it comes to collecting storing and purification as water is key to your survival.
I have been a fan of Mora knives for a few years and a fan of Light My Fire for a bit longer, so when these two companies came together and released the Swedish Fire Knife it was only a matter of time before I had my hands on one.
The knife is made from hardened Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel, the back of the blade has been ground to work perfectly with the fire steel. The handle is very comfortable, the high friction rubber make using the knife safe and easy. The Swedish Firesteel throws a 2,980°c spark that works equally as well in the wet and will last for 3000 strikes. Available in 5 different colors, you will be able to find one to suit your taste.
Out of the box the knife is perfectly sharp and fits nicely into the sheath. While I like the locking system on the fire steel, I find that removing it from the handle is hard going and this is the only reason I could find not to give this a perfect 10. My rating 9 out of 10
