Bushcraft Friction FIRE - Nothing but a KNIFE… and a bootlace!

When it come to bushcraft and survival, there are few skills as intriguing as making fire with simple tools, in this case, nothing but a knife. In this video I'll show you the finer points of using a bow drill to make friction fire. The old adage of "rubbing two sticks together" isn't far off! I'll make a complete friction fire kit using just a knife and my boot lace. For this kit I'm using elderberry for the fireboard, aka hearth board, and the spindle. I also collect fatwood, process the tinder bundle, and give you some important details for the friction fire making process. This is just another one of those survival skills that's fun to learn. Now get in the woods and practice those survival skills!
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[@daves2822]

My dad was a marine, growing up hunting, fishing and camping he taught nothing can serve you better than a well built knife. It can feed you, protect you, keep you warm, and give you shelter. Never leave home without it

[@leggoego]

"A knifeless man is a lifeless man" -Grandpa

[@fortniteipadplayerfortnite7437]

Your not going to believe it, but here in Victoria Australia one is NOT allowed by law to even carry a small folding pocket knife!

[@Freight_Train]

@@fortniteipadplayerfortnite7437 In the woods too?

[@fortniteipadplayerfortnite7437]

@@Freight_Train No, it’s about having legal purpose to carry a knife. Going scrub would be fine - Once you got there.

[@Freight_Train]

@@fortniteipadplayerfortnite7437 Got it. Still crazy though, huh. I use my knife regularly. I almost always have it with me.

[@insatiable_mind]

Man I love your teaching style. Slow and thorough, explaining every detail. I’ve watched a lot of bow drill fire starting videos and this is definitely the best I can remember.

[@davidpinnell1873]

I’ve seen a lot of videos on this and this one explains everything as if I was being taught one on one . That’s why I subscribed. Thanks

[@Sionnach1601]

It really is. He included some vital never before seen points like the building up of the dust for extra tinder for your little coal, plus the double winding of the boot lace around the spindle. Makes so much sense. Yet I didn't think of it ever before, and neither did many others apparently.

[@blackwolfoutdoorsbyabelgar5842]

Sir wat knife is that pleas

[@PhilipCheadle]

I agree 💯

[@jackieow]

Great video. Here's a vote for a late-season repeat in less than ideal conditions. Maybe with the vertical-drive mechanism (slot at top of shaft) so people can see there is more than the bowstring method available.

[@clayhayeshunter]

good suggestion

[@CarlosMartinez-pz1ic]

@@clayhayeshunter great video .looking forward to damp conditions video . thanks for sharing .

[@Marcobreddels]

@@clayhayeshunter yes pls

[@jpjohnson3177]

Great job on the video! Keep it up 👍🏻

[@andreperait]

Fantastic lesson at making fire with just a shoe string and a knife there mate.. another one is a trick taught by the philippines soldiers to the us soldiers...using dry bamboo which i'll keep in mind incase i forget my fire lighters...

[@garyminick1050]

Love your videos. I'm almost 73 and I just learned the bow drill fire about 5 or 6 years ago . I practice it a lot to the point that I look for something difficult for a challenge. I once cut and made a set from green wood . I made my barring from a piece of dead Osage which is so hard that it glazed over pretty good and then I made the rest of the kit from mimosa for the bow and cottonwood for the spindle . But they were green wood . It took me 5 hours to get the coal and fire. I was so exhausted that I almost had to crawl to the house . The temperature was 100 degrees. I do like a challenge. Lol

[@garyminick1050]

I also have Osage longbows but I make my arrows out of cottonwood. My downfalls are flintknaping my arrowheads . I let a 500 pound bear get away from me because my arrowhead was to heavy for the amount of regidity in the shaft . It wobbled all the way to the target and then bounced off. Me and the bear had a nervous few minutes before he worked his way around me to get to a slightly down wind position where he scented me and spooked and ran. It's dark now and I got two miles to walk to camp. I keep a spear with me at all times in the bear woods. I seem to relax more with my "Cold steel" spear. I have come so close to being forced to use it but the Good Lord worked it out for me to live by his hand and not mine. I'm sure I have gone on to long for this format so I'll hush now !

[@ulary]

Respect🙏

[@marksims3350]

I’ve never seen the hearth board put directly on the tinder bundle. Brilliant. Thanks Clay.

[@benmoore1097]

Same! Seems obvious, but never thought of it. Nor have I seen anyone do it

[@PhilipCheadle]

Exactly. Noticed that smart move immediately. Simplify by eliminating extra steps whenever you can.

[@randycoffey3456]

One of the best bow drill vids I've seen. Great job! I agree, a video with less than ideal conditions would be great

[@thomasmarable6927]

Hands down the most informative video that I've seen on making a fire with a bow drill. Well done

[@stevefisher2121]

Here's another vote for less than ideal conditions. It's odd how amazing it is to see fire made from a bow and drill set. It truly is a skill every outdoorsman/woodsman should know. Great video. 👏👏

[@ivannasha5556]

Modern bow technology. Back in my day we used nothing but a stick and our palms.

[@terry_willis]

Won't work if you're wearing loafers. :)

[@__-pl3jg]

The first time I learned this I was at 9k feet in Colorado mountains. It was May so everything was wet, cold, and it was hailing every now and again. But I eventually got it going! Thankfully my knife handle has a divet which simplified the prep work. After that time every other has been a piece of cake. After that adventure I learned to put the bowstring on my knife as a lanyard. God I love my knife.

[@randyrussell6246]

Knives saves lives . I've carried a knife in my pocket since 1968. I've been ten miles from home on a short their and back trip of 20 miles and turned around and went back home and got my knife. Don't understand any man without a knife.

[@randyrussell6246]

@Nikos Bushcraft and Survival My hatchets are used on a regular basis and used as a means of protection as well.

[@mab0852]

Spot on Clay! Primitive fire is my favorite outdoor skill. It's amazing how hard friction fire is until you truly own the skill and amazing how easy it is once you do. Somebody told me once that's 100 fires. I never actually counted, but I'm pretty sure that's accurate. Once you learn to read the dust, you get good quick. Then it's having the experience to find and read the materials in all kinds of conditions and locations.

[@clayhayeshunter]

Agreed!

[@christianb.4726]

That's so true.. but there is a rest of magic...

[@williamunderhill427]

Tip: angle your bow slightly when sawing to prevent the cordage from rubbing on itself (this is especially important when using natural cordage such a dogbane, etc) 👍

[@greenmansurvival4832]

A beautifully crafted and demonstrated friction fire method with spot on knife skills. However, what this video really demonstrates is the huge value of carrying cordage!

[@ML-ks2lj]

Cordage, containers, cutting, combustion and cover.

[@donquijote7463]

@@ML-ks2lj And FIRE TRUCK.

[@PhilipCheadle]

True!

[@jimmyrogers2448]

Haven't watched a ton of your content yet. I watch a ton of content. Let me say you are now my #1 bushcrafter. If I had to pick one person to pair up with, it'd be you. Much respect!

[@coyoteslings]

Clay,you have the best bushcraft and archery channel I've ever seen 👏.

[@paulhorn24]

One of the few best videos ever about this topic! Very, very well made in all aspects (storytelling, filming, editing but most importantly teaching knowledge)!

[@clayhayeshunter]

Thanks Paul

[@dholiday9315]

I remember my uncle teaching me these skills when I was very young, and always testing me on it when he had an opportunity. I haven’t done this in a very long time, and now have a young son myself that needs to know these things. Your videos have gotten me excited to see how hard it will be after all of these years, and to pass this knowledge to my son. Thank you for the inspiration because I’ve been anxious about how terrible I am at “real” outdoorsman life after years of the fancy stuff helping me along. 😂

[@wayne-oo]

Great demo ! Would truly love to see a demo in less than ideal conditions, rain or snow !!

[@jj4791]

First: Make a shelter Then: Find dry wood

[@erikasanchez7972]

And different location...he knows where everything is, no wasted time. Good info but not realistic

[@ahayseed654]

If you know the materials, the location shouldn't matter that much. "The more you know, the less you need." Mountains, prairie, forrest, swamp, desert. There is always something new to learn. Good video Clay.

[@hahamorehaha6869]

@@jj4791 nope. Always a fire first. If at all possible. It will may everyone feel better, wife and kids. Keeps the panic down. If it is getting late a fire will provide light and heat and maybe keep some critters away. And if for some reason you only have a knife a fire 1st is a must, building shelter with a knife only will take some time. It is easy to carry a bic lighter, matches, magnesium block , and in the right conditions a magnifying glass, which can be found on some swiss knifes.

[@DiabloOutdoors]

This is an excellent video about bow drill and maybe even the best one on KZbin. This, because we really see the process from A to Z. Not many include the gathering of the necessary materials... Well done and thank you!

[@DolphScreamingSax]

No hesitations, calm, confident and gets on with the job and it's preparations. This man knows his stuff.

[@jasonscoggins01]

Yes!!!!! I would love to see another fire especially in horrible conditions. Thank you Clay

[@raydreamer7566]

GREAT video.... I like how you pointed out the importance of the notch that is needed to be cut into the friction bottom stick for collecting the ash sawdust !

[@derickwilliams2195]

Oh man I love how clean, respectful and thoroughly entertaining this video is. Covering all angles and well constructed while combining theory and practical in a smooth and delightful fashion. Blessings from Cape Town. ❤

[@johnprice4893]

I like the way you make people aware of the reality comparison to ideal conditions

[@Just_Chuck_It]

Look...... Another perfect bow drill done in perfect weather conditions...........

[@northmountainknives]

Yeah, I'd love to see a follow up in more difficult conditions!

[@dooleyfussle8634]

Great knife there, fella!

[@northmountainknives]

@@dooleyfussle8634 Thank you!

[@gs5015]

Watch Alone season 8, with the man himself.

[@northmountainknives]

@@gs5015 I watched it! I've been a fan of Clay's for years. So I was pumped to get to watch him on the show, and even more pumped to see him bring home the W.

[@tonydavis2672]

Hey the wind was blowing somewhat fast . . . So this was a more difficult conditions . . . Try paying more attention next time . . Ok .

[@angryshrub1]

“I’d like to see you do that in the snow with no knife in the rain with one arm chewed off by a grizzly bear while dehydrated with diarrhea.” What is with these stupid comments. Thanks for taking the time to show us what you do, I appreciate it very much.

[@clayhayeshunter]

haha, exactly!

[@asmith7876]

LOL was made for this comment, brilliant!

[@danielturner7743]

Great way to start a bush fire in perfect conditions. Nice!

[@59jkappelman]

Best skill to know when you're matchless. I'm glad I had a semester of survival living in college. final was a week in the wilderness with just a knife and a good pair of boots. Had to live for a week. Passing grade was gaining weight at the end of the week when we were rescued. Best fun week ever

[@alainaarrhodge5900]

Thanks Clay! YES! I would love to see how to find good bow-drill materials in wet weather. Thanks for teaching us!

[@lspthrattan]

Thanks for the close-ups and slow-mo's of the process; I've seen plenty of demonstrations but this is the first one that left me with zero questions to ask. Thank you! Can't wait for wildfire season to be over so I can practice this! And yes, another video in less than perfect conditions is a great idea. I'll be watching for it.

[@clayhayeshunter]

Thanks Julia

[@reubenhamilton4743]

👏👏

[@Scablands_Scavenger]

Oh man this is so inspiring. I have struggled for years with friction fire, never considered elderberry. I see so many videos using the popular woods that just don't grow in our area. I am going out to get some to try today!

[@780bushcraft]

You are still one of the only ones that actually demonstrates bushcraft abilities with minimal tool. Everyone else be building tarp structures and lighting fire with duck tape. Keep up the good work!!!

[@clayhayeshunter]

Will do

[@cabbie0kanagan]

Very well done. Just one thing, the upper pressure piece used to press down on the rotating shaft -- it's importance to the success cannot be understated, and it's not all that easy to achieve low friction with naturally available items. One possibility is a river-worn stone with a suitable hollow; but a very light and readily available item to add to your pack is an empty spice bottle. Works like magic.

[@insatiable_mind]

The bowline and trucker’s hitch are two knots I learned young and have found no end of uses for. The clove hitch is also very useful but a distant third for what I do.

[@jim9-zg7jm]

I wanted to give this five likes but KZbin only lets me give one. I've watched dozens of these start a fire videos and this is the first one that did what I would have done, just create the coal directly on the tinder.

[@clayhayeshunter]

Many thanks

[@anthonyhiggins153]

These are the types of videos that we all need before long the only thing I'm going to have is quote unquote primitive technologies to use we better be mastering every one of them thank you.

[@HenriVineFishing]

Thanks for the tutorial. I'm definitely interested in seeing another one next fall in less than perfect conditions.

[@dalemcinnes1834]

I'm looking forward to seeing another one this fall. Dale in Canada 🇨🇦

[@hohohohehehe6910]

That was elder flower, late August it becomes elder Berry. Dry or fresh flowers can be boiled in water and drank as a tea. The darker the berries are, the better they are for you. Here in Britain Elder is actually classed as a weed, because they spread everywhere. If you pick the flowers early morning before the sun is too high in the sky, the flowers taste better and you can also make medicines and puddings from them.

[@felixmerz6229]

Yes, there definitely is interest in that. Also, very much appreciate not only the instructions on the fire, but also all the bonus information.

[@Uncle_Red]

Awesome video! Using the hole in the spindle is very clever! You could also use the fatwood as a self lubricating bearing block.

[@caribbeanearthskills5865]

Nice video. The fatwood can work well as a bearing block as well. if it's got enough "fat" in it then it's self lubricating.

[@kash7585]

Clay’s brain is all the survival books in the world combined. I would starve and die on Alone. With Clay’s videos, there’s hope. 💁‍♀️

[@Swamp-Fox]

Your knowledge of the natural world never ceases to amaze me. Here is another vote for friction fire in damp/wet conditions.

[@mistastabs5840]

Awesome video, love bow drill I've been using it for the last 5 years... A follow up in less then ideal conditions would be good. Fatwood makes a great bearing block as well...

[@clayhayeshunter]

Right on

[@chriscraft1245]

Always great content thank you so much

[@czed7515]

This is the best explanation of a bow drill fire I've seen. I may actually try doing this again now.

[@bobkelly2447]

Yes I would like to see a friction fire being made after a heavy rain ! thanks and keep up the education we all need it !

[@anotheryoutuber_]

my favorite part is when my brow sweat falls onto the coal...

[@clayhayeshunter]

🤣yep

[@sherryjohnson3804]

Right, especially here in southern Texas😳

[@FiremanBrian2010]

Awesome instruction, do you worry about hard or softwood for components or simply what you have available and it doesn’t matter?

[@nickinportland]

I sure wish he talked more during these videos. He’s an interesting guy who has a lot of knowledge and the minute of silence while cutting wood aren’t all that enlightening.

[@robertfelty7290]

Clay has done the best HOW TOO that I have ever seen. Simply a step by step and an explanation to what he's doing. 👌

[@clayhayeshunter]

Thanks Robert

[@jwjenkins421]

"Oh service berries, nice!" I just took my 2 year old out two days ago to look for service berries and thimble berries close to my house in northern Utah. We found a few but it was fun to watch her gobble up the thimble berries. Also I'm curious what knife you're using? I like the design.

[@clayhayeshunter]

check out @northmountainknives on instagram

[@michaelb.42112]

Being a "city boy" I forget that shoelaces, and basically anything you're wearing can aid in rescue. Even the oil from your skin !

[@HeartsXoXd]

That was amazing. I love the way you are not unsure it will work, it shows that it can be done, and....don't panic. The fire will start, it is just a matter of technique. Thank you so much!

[@guyprolly]

This channel is almost 100% useful as well as being well narrated and relatable. Many thanks. A friend came to my house to start a fire this way, but with ready-made materials. It is time to try this from scratch. Awesome.

[@clayhayeshunter]

go for it!

[@chipmiller605]

brings back memories of my scouting days. Good times and thank you.

[@terrencejohnson85]

Now that I’m old, 73, I yearn for the ways of my youth, hiking, portaging and camping in far off places.

[@pshhh7856]

Probably the single best tutorial I’ve seen on making a friction fire. Cheers

[@MyLegitReviews]

I love everything about this video. As a wannabe outdoorsman, this speaks to me. I have GOT to try this out. I saw in that comments that it takes 100 tries of doing this before you are any good at it. Time to get started.

[@delijahify]

I think this is one of the best explanations, on how to do a friction fire with a bow, i've seen on youtube so far. Thank you clay, and continue the good work 🙏

[@Ridesmule]

Excellent demonstration. That was the clearest explanation I’ve ever seen.

[@timmccarver4121]

Great demo, Clay! Absolutely, go with any demos that you would like. You channel is a wealth of REAL information. A damp fire set would be great. Thanks for asking!

[@clayhayeshunter]

Thanks Tim

[@kenl6769]

Knowledge of bushcraft is critically important for outdoor enthusiasts. Knife handling and fine motor skills with minimum effort show true bushcraft skill. REI can sell you lots of great stuff and You Tube can shoe you nifty tricks. Realistic practice and positive mental attitude are the keys to thriving.

[@PhilipCheadle]

Excellent job showing and narrating each step with very clear explanations. I would share the reason you want to only cut your notch 1/3 into the bowl is so that your dust can collect. Then you have heat that can build up there. If you cut too far into the bowl you will have drop out or loss of dust and you won’t build up the necessary heat needed right there in that spot to achieve a hot coal and then ignition. Great work and new Sub here. 👏

[@76Stankfinger]

Your videos remind me of home. I grew up in the central Washington State area near Leavenworth/Wenatchee. I miss the outdoor recreational aspect of the area, but not all of the nonsense that goes with it. I appreciate the time you put into your videos. They are done if the best available.

[@clayhayeshunter]

Many thanks

[@2flight]

You are patient and precise. A lot of people can't start a pile with matches and gasoline.

[@Sionnach1601]

This is, hands down, THE BEST instruction tutorial on bow drill fire lighting. - I had NEVER seen anyone ever speak about building up your dust first to make more timer for your little tiny coal. - NOR, had I ever seen anyone DOUBLE UP the chord on the spindle! Genius!! Why didn't I think of that! There I was so many times getting frustrated by the damn chordage slipping on the spindle! And I was wondering why you were (in relative terms) leaving the boot lace so slack on the bow. It was of course to allow for a nice tight fit of TWO winds around the spindle, not one. Thank you so much. I think you've singlehandedly sorted out my few remaining problems with bow drill lighting. Thank you so much, from Ireland. 🇮🇪🇮🇪👍👍 Subscribed too obviously!!

[@clayhayeshunter]

Glad it was helpful

[@feathersky860]

Thank You For Sharin’ Your KNOWLEDGE 🦅

[@clayhayeshunter]

My pleasure!

[@____-ei4gq]

This is the best bowdrill video especially for beginners I've seen so far, thanks :)

[@indianahoosier5794]

I miss Boy Scouts. I can remember building a fire using a bowdrill, flint and steel, and magnifying glass. Good times around campfires!

[@rogt332]

Thank you Clay and this is surely a truly fundamental life /survival skill which maybe should be taught in schools .. .so many people are not even aware of such things sadly . Best regards from 🇬🇧👍

[@clayhayeshunter]

Many thanks

[@FrontierMetals]

First truly clear tutorial on this. Well done!

[@goldog2816]

We were using that resin wood from old pine logs and stumps 35/40 years ago for fire starter, we called it pitch pine, great stuff .......

[@MrThenry1988]

Lol. Good work. I'm glad you put your boot lace back and said so.

[@BigPictureYT]

Very detailed. The carving you did for the top of the spindle was fascinating.

[@williamlewis700]

Awesome ! I'll get to work to learn this, it'll be something to teach my grandchildren. Thanks

[@mikesanders4012]

I learned a lot from this video #1 keep a dozen cheep lighters in every pack, case & pocket I have.

[@stefanmargraf7878]

That was precise! Thank you for teaching me!

[@CleaveMountaineering]

Great video. I've only done 3 successful bow drill fires, here are a few tips I picked up. 1. Use a bigger, blunter tip on the drill 2. Double wrap the string on the drill I'd love to see the less than ideal conditions bow drill fire, since in ideal conditions the need for fire is diminished.

[@TheSpeyfisher]

Excellent Clay!!!!!! Can't wait for your next one in wet conditions since I live in Oregon!!!! Thanks

[@AutitsicDysexlia]

Great! I'll send this to my Auntie Anteefa from the Pac NW. She's a beginner and wanted to know how to start fires without any incendiary tools in extremely dry conditions.

[@stringandreed]

Great job. Well explained. Done methodically, and not in a hurry. Can't wait to see the video in wet conditions. Best of luck to you!

[@user-ok7dp7od4k]

เป็นประโยชน์ต่อการเรียนรู้มากครับ ขอบคุณที่สาธิตไห้ดู👍😲😲😲

[@Faithledliving]

I live about an hour and 15 minutes from you in Idaho North we use fatwood all the time for starting a wood cookstove in while we’re out camping you can’t beat it find shavings work awesome with a feral rod or bow drill CERT thanks for the vid take care God bless

[@ldtexas1648]

Thank you Clay!

[@dylansylvan6398]

Best Bow Drill I've seen

[@joserizal8523]

Added knowledge for my skills set. Great tutorial video god blessings upon you

[@herbsmith6871]

Yes please! Thanks for sharing my friend 🤠

[@edcrutchfield3447]

Thank you for saving lives

[@godzillaburger9690]

Service berries are my favorite berry. So yummy. Great vid. Thanks.

[@QuantumMechanic_88]

Placing your hearth board on top of the birds nest is intelligent . Nicely demonstrated . Thanks Mr. Hayes and all the best from New Mexico .

[@SirCharles12357]

That was the best demonstration I've ever seen! Good job!

[@kennethcruise7635]

A lot of fine details not covered by others I have watched . Enjoy your style of teaching .

[@clayhayeshunter]

Thanks

[@clancywoodbine5343]

Awesome! Another vote for the friction fire in damp conditions video, that would be great to see!

[@passenger6735]

Top tips. Nicely explained, with no rush whatsoever.

[@clayhayeshunter]

Thanks

[@3passa]

Brilliant. Your camera and editing are a joy to watch, and your work is absolutely excellent, no bs, well explained as simple or complex as it is. Thanks so much, I have loads to learn!

[@thebritishbookworm2649]

Superb video. Never seen the swivel / baring block idea before. Absolutely love it.

[@stevenscarlett2059]

The spindle bearing is genius. I’ve never seen that. Thanks

[@clayhayeshunter]

Glad to help

[@MikeMayArt]

I'm living in PA. Loved the video, and got a thrill at the end when you mentioned being in Idaho. That's where I'm from (Minidoka county). So good seeing great representation of home. Great work!! Learned a ton.

[@alexmacdonald258]

I'd go for "less than ideal" conditions too. Great video, and it shows me that I really need to work on my plant ID more.