Unique Friction Fire Hearth Board

The hearth board I show how to construct here is unique but still simple and easy to make. This is a requested video.
Intro song: "Yard Sale" found in KZbin Audio Library

[@palmspringsperrry]

I'm a life long camper Lonnie and I watch a lot of your videos - I have learned a great deal and will continue to watch and learn - Thanks to you and your wife for doing this - You are providing a great service for the experienced and the novice - Thanks Again

[@homerboy2u]

We just keep learning and learning with you. I never get bored with your videos. Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge with the world. Hats off to you Señor!!!. Homero

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Homero Jimenez Thank you my friend. It does our hearts good to hear that folks are learning from the videos. That is why we are making these videos and it is great to hear that they are indeed useful for others

[@doug9418]

Experience Experience, thank you Lonnie for your time in this video. God Bless you and your family.

[@craiger2399]

Brilliant. And the bit about the punk wood in the nest to essentially extend the ember and act as an intermediate fuel is very smart!

[@TheMountainfarmer]

Great method. Another advantage I see is that you are working off the ground in a more comfortable position. Thanks for sharing!

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

TheMountainfarmer Yes the sitting posistion of this method is much more comfortable especially for older folks who may have a hard time getting up or down from a kneeling position. Thank you.

[@Veldvaardigheden]

Very nice way to get a coal from a friction fire .Thanks for filming this.Greetings from the Netherlands

[@Electronicpoacher1]

love that method as you dont worry about the ember landing on a damp surface like a piece of bark which could be wet especially in wet or winter time, thank you my friend and look forward to many more videos,

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Electronicpoacher1 Thank you friend. I rarely ever use the V notched "standard" hearth board design now.

[@walterpalmer2749]

Never too much knowledge only too little. Nice Lonnie. You explain things clearly. Some channels rush through their explanations and with camera work poorly done. ( I guess I missed this video somehow.)

[@eny68]

Another great video Lonnie, with a wealth of wisdom shared, thank you.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

eny68 You are very welcome and thank you

[@thetruthhershelcyphers]

Thanks for showing this video. Watching it on video it looks like it is the easiest method I've ever seen anyone do. But the reality will be in the trying. Thanks again.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Hershel Cyphers You are welcome. Good luck when you do try the method. Even if this method does not end up being ones favorite method, it is still a great bit of knowledge to have. When a person has a well rounded out knowlege that person is then prepared for a greater number of out of the ordinary scenarios in which one may find themselves accidentally placed.

[@woodsmokewoodcraftschool3332]

Lonnie and Connie. Been watching your Far North videos from way Down South on the Alabama Gulf-Coast for a while now but this is the first time to comment on anything. This method here holds promise for my wife since her bad knees will not let her do the traditional bow drill method. Gonna share your channel on my facebook page. Thanks. David.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Woodsmoke Woodcraft School Thank you sir. Glad you like the technique. Hope it works well for you and your wife. I would recommend that you watch my video called "Learn the Eskimo Strap Drill Friction Fire" There are several copycat videos out there and at least one with the same name but I recommend you see the one made by me so that you will learn how to do this method in the safest manner.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Woodsmoke Woodcraft School I sent the last comment from my android using a bluwtooth keyboard which is a real pain to copy and paste so I am now replying on our Linux desktop computer so that I can paste the link to the video that I mentioned previously. kzbin.info/www/bejne/ineUYalrqrl0fsWq Also just wanted to say that I dropped by your KZbin site and enjoyed seeing you working with the kids and others to teach them about the outdoors. Good luck and may you be blessed with your endeavours.

[@woodsmokewoodcraftschool3332]

Thanks Lonnie.

[@tallcedars2310]

Thank you for this simpler hearth board method Lonnie, and also thank your fire guru Charlie for us. All the best to both of you.

[@AdmiralPrune2]

I always like your videos and look forward to watching them. Thanks for the work you put into them for us.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

AdmiralPrune2 Good to hear you like the videos. Thanks for letting us know. You are welcome.

[@virginiacopeland108]

That gets the job done and the fire started. I appreciate your hard work in creating the videos. Clark

[@Biglandtrapper]

Thanks for showing Lonnie, found it extremely interesting, friction fire is something I really need to practise, you certainly make it look easy ...!!

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

***** Thank you friend. With the right materials and the right form, Friction fire is actually not very difficult. Good luck when you do try it.

[@TheWoodedBeardsman]

Cool!

[@pidgeiam4979]

Unique set up, thanks for showing us. Pretty darn fast nice job Lonnie. Pidge.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

PiDGE IAM Thank you Pidge. Thanks for watching

[@bottlewasher33]

Wow! You really have this technique mastered! Thank you for sharing!

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

bottlewasher33 Thank you. Friction fire is something that I really enjoy. Well I guess I really enjoy learning many different forms of primitive type fire lighting.

[@talon0863]

Thanks - Good point about not getting to excited and dropping the spindle on wet ground.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

talon0863 You are welcome. Thank you

[@MrPoppabear255]

Excellent video! I've had a couple of back surgeries that makes kneeling and then standing afterwards difficult. I haven't been able to do friction fires for a couple of years now.. After watching you use the Alaskan Strap Friction Fire method and modified hearth board while seated has given me a new lease on friction fire making. I'm going to be making myself a mouth piece and strap and given this method a try. Thanks!

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

MrPoppabear255 Great PapaB. Hope that it work out well for you. It makes me glad that I have been able to help give a new lease on former interests

[@johnwmacdonald994]

Nice work. There's no mistaking the fact that you've practiced friction fire a few times. I've never tried it, and you make it look easy, but i know it won't be when I do try. Glad to see your approach. Take care.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

John W MacDonald Thank you John. I recomend the bow drill method for the beginner. Once you have correct woods and correct posture and form, the rest is easy.

[@StyNorth]

Very nice hearth board! Thank you and your friend Charlie for sharing this method!

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

+Sty North It seems that the more I know the more I realize how much I don't know. lol When ever I get to thinking I have a pretty good understanding of a particular subject then I learn about some different aspect about it that opens up a whole new area of education. It keeps life interesting that way I guess.

[@StyNorth]

You are so right!

[@dennissmith7641]

great video Lonnie..yet again of course! I really like how the board piece has that little platform to hold the amber. Itll save needing to manipulate carefully a different staging area. That method although at first glance looks awkward, but would be off ground close to body and in wet weather with a small shelter or small over head whats to say... JUST GREAT! AWESOME!

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Dennis Smith Thank you Dennis. I also really like the system for the several advantages as you said.

[@Osckarre]

Love that little saw blade you have, I keep a keyhole saw in my camp suppies crate. But that blade is awesome. Thanks for the tips.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Osckarre Thank you. The folding saw I was using is the "Bahco Laplander". It has been a great saw.

[@stephensgate1]

Lonnie watching your video's relaxes me. There's a guy who paints, an artist on Public Television, he's been on for years, you might have even seen or heard of him, his name is Bob Ross. Anyway, you remind me of him. You both have the same gift of teaching with a calming voice. I really enjoy learning from you. Greetings to Connie. My son and I appreciate you both very much. Stephen,Ohio

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

BuckeyeBushcraft L. You are about the 4th person through the years that says Me and Bob Ross are much alike. I had never heard of Bob Ross before that. There must indeed be quite a bit of similarity between us for that many people to make the comparison. I consider it quite a compliment to be compared to such a gifted person. I passed on your greetings to Connie for you and she said to say hi for her. Tell your son hi from Lonnie and Connie up in Alaska as well. Thank you much for the kind words.

[@LeeRalph100]

Great idea and Great tip!! I have often had the issue of finding something to use to catch the ember. That is a really good point about laying the spindle down after the first attempt!! Very informative!!!! I did learn a lot..Thanks!!!

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Lee Ralph Thank you. That is great that the video is helpful for you.

[@Waldwaerts]

Piece of willow for a board? Check! Spindle out of hazel? Check! Paracord? Check! Folding saw? Check! Excuse me guys, but I have to try this out. Right now! Connie, thanks for showing. Didn't even know about the two-hole method for a hearth board and now will test the improved version. Cheers and all the best, Bernhard

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

***** excuse me Bernard but I think you may have misunderstood me in the video. The hearth and spindle are both of the same tree branch and are both of willow. Hazel may work as a spindle but I'm unfamiliar with that variety of wood since we don't have any of it up north here. Good luck and hope it works well for you.

[@Waldwaerts]

I understood it that the main innovation was the hearth board. However, I think it should work with hazel without problems (hardwood). Thanks for getting back to me.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

***** It very well may work to use Hazel. If you try it I wish you luck

[@JamieHitt]

I might just adopt this as my go to method for friction fire. Great job, my friend. Thank you.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Jamie Hitt Thank you Jamie and you are welcome. There are several advantages to this method for sure.

[@anthonydeacon881]

Hi Lonnie. Thank you so much for your videos from which I have learned so much. Here is a suggestion. If, when the first hole has become too deep you make a saw cut just behind the burned-out hole to the depth of the 'ledge'. Then, lay your knife flat on the ledge facing inwards towards the existing hole. You can then split out a small, flat block (containing the first 'hole') and start again, burning in a new hole and cutting the required notch. Each time this is repeated, the ledge advances along the board. I hope this is clear? Again, many thanks for all the info.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Yes the suggestion is understood. However, as I explained at the end of the video, albeit poorly, the two hole method of fireboard works well with this end stepped hearth. Once the end hole next to the shelf is used up, it is a simple thing to start another hole right next to the first hole and notch from the new hole to the old hole so that the ember will now form in the old hole.

[@aktrapper6126]

Friction fire just got easier, simpler, quicker and success more assured. Well demonstrated Lonnie and Connie. That was a fast ember my friend. Also the vee notch is much easier to cut when your cutting with the grain of the wood as demonstrated rather then against it like traditional boards. Love the punk wood tip in the tender bundle, Coal extenders are good insurance. Thanks for the video.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Catherine Perrett Thank you my friend. I agree. Many advantages to this system.

[@garys_shave]

I come back to this video from time to time just to watch Lonnie go!

[@alaskankare]

great video.and the platform gives you a steady device to hold your precious ember!

[@Waldhandwerk]

Awesome Lonnie! Really cool and great! Thanks for sharing, my friend.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Waldhandwerk You are very welcome friend and thanks for watching. I see you have a new video just out that I need to watch when I get caught here. ATB

[@brothersofbushcraft9786]

Great video Lonnie and Connie, I will have to try this method myself, atb, Harry.

[@1myfriendjohn]

This is a brilliant method Lonnie, thanks for sharing it.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

1myfriendjohn You are welcome. Thank you for watching

[@ManLand]

Brilliant...absolutely....I love these videos!

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Man Land Thank you. Glad you are enjoying these videos.

[@MylesNicholas]

Excellent method, a little suggestion, put a pinch of sand in the hole. Those Eskimos had a cool idea indeed.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

+Myles Nicholas Using sand in the hole as never worked for me. After just a couple rotations of the spindle, the sand is flung out. It has never stayed in the hole long enough to make any difference.

[@lizard5678]

There is beauty in simplicity. Nice video.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Sillybillydilly Thank you SBD

[@walleyefishinrod3115]

Another great idea Lonnie. Thanks for sharing. Take care...Rod

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

walleyefishin rod You are welcome Rod. Thank you

[@spye3141]

Great video, Lonnie & Connie! Your channel and its content are very detailed and informative.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

spye3141 Thank you for the encouraging words

[@DerangedSurvival]

Great advice, I think waving the birds nest back and forth is important for that ember to build naturally. thanks for sharing

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Deranged Survival There are several reasons I wave the ember. I have bad lungs due to life long Asthma and don't have a lot of lung power. Also for that same reason, I don't want to inhale any smoke if I don't have to. Also the breath carries a lot of moisture which may hamper the growth of a fledgeling ember somewhat.

[@bombadeer8231]

There’s less oxygen in breath as well. But it’s warm too. Did you know cannabis smoke 💨 is good for asthma? Lonnie and Connie you guys are living the life! Best to you both. Greetings from New Jersey USA 🇺🇸

[@Buzzardbushcraft]

very cool indeed.. well done Lonnie and Charlie..

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Buzzardbushcraft Thank you

[@downeastprimitiveskills7688]

Great demo. We often stick the spindle top point down into the snow or earth. This keep that end damp and perhaps less likely to burn as much. It mostly keep the business end high and dry.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

downeast primitive skills Thank you. Often especially when I soak the spindle tops in neets foot oil which is a natural product from the hooves of animals, the tops develop a hard friction resisting burnish. sticking the top in the ground or snow would moisturize the tip and make the cells of the wood softer thus perhaps increasing wear. After performing a friction fire. The spindle will be very hot on both ends and is very susceptible to moisture absorption.

[@downeastprimitiveskills7688]

***** For sure some preps to the kit like an oil soak on the end of the spindle can be an aid. My premise is from the landscape kit and it is burned after using it. Many times the tip of the balsam fir spindle is not burned in use but crunched over. In a bind I will use dried spruce pitch or resins from another soft wood to lube the hand hold socket. More often than not a damp hardwood bearing block is selected and this is working well. A pre made mouth held bearing block like the cushioned version you have is great, too.

[@MrSrtman18]

Nice Lonnie! Happy New Year to you and Connie! I'm catching up on lots of videos. Thanks Phil

[@ThePatriot4freedom]

you're getting really good at friction fire. impressive

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

ThePatriot4freedom Thank you. Friction fire is something that I really enjoy.

[@Naughtz]

So many great tips in this video! One of the best I've seen on friction fire :) great work!

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Scott Matthews Glad you enjoyed the video. pass the link on to friends or social media if you don't mind and think it is worth it.. Thank you for watching and for the high praise. Both are very much appreciated.

[@nickfree46]

Oh and I'm going to give this a go. I think my son will like it.

[@stupid101ification]

Hi Lonnie & Connie, Yes, I did learn something, Thank you very much

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Carrol Adams You are very welcome. I am also very pleased to see you say that you learned something. That is our goal for these videos and to see that they have achieved the goal makes the effort very rewarding for us.

[@BacktotheBasics101]

Thank you looks like they're under 60 bucks . Keep up the good work .👍🏼

[@theflyingaussie4336]

You Lonnie are the Guru !

[@PaulSheils]

Thanks for the tip Lonnie, I will put this method to practice next time I am making fire by friction.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Paul Sheils You are welcome. Good luck with your next friction fire practice.

[@philipculbertson55]

Really great idea Lonnie. This is a new twist on friction fire I have never seen before. The Eskimo drill seems to build more speed than the traditional bow and speed equals friction. I am guessing the drill method has some other uses also. Thanks for the great tip!

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Philip Culbertson Thank you Phillip. For me personally, I believe I am faster with the bow drill. With the bow drill though, I apply about 20 - 25 pounds of pressure on the spindle and about 5 more pounds (or about 23 - 28 lbs) with the Eskimo Strap Drill technique. So I am able to apply more downward pressure with the ESD. You are right, "speed equals friction" but *pressure* also equals friction as well.

[@ericwright7643]

Great tip about being careful with you spindle. I must admit that I have been guilty of haphazardly setting it down before. Its usually when I've had to work especially hard to get an ember. LOL, nothing like shooting yourself in the foot.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Eric Wright lol ".....shooting yourself in the foot" Yes I agree. Friction fire need not be difficult at all. With the right techniques and the right wood combinations, friction fire is very easy and repeatable. Folks tend to make it much more difficult than it needs to be.

[@coydogoutdoors]

thats a cool idea brother love the idea of sitting with the bow drill very cool watching you work it like a pro

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

coydog outdoors Thank you friend. This method is still virtually unknown but I believe it will catch on.

[@boggycreekbeast]

Good video, Lonnie. Never seen that before. When I get finished with my move I'm gonna have to get caught up on some video watching. :)

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

boggycreekbeast Good luck with your move. Hope it smoothly and quickly for you.

[@lesliesadler8524]

Thanks and you too Charley.

[@davidpuckett3226]

I don’t think I’ll use half the stuff in your videos cause I don’t camp.....so why do I enjoy your videos??? Lol....I think I could eat a spruce tree now! God bless

[@bsabushcraft5037]

Awesome job Lonnie! I'm currently still working on the bow drill :) Thanks for sharing! Abrahm

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

BSA Bushcraft Thank you Abrahm

[@zioazalin]

great tips, thanks! :) I'll try this design next time!

[@NorwegianBushcraft]

That is a very useful design Lonnie. I use it myself when doing handdrill, cause I like to fix the board really secure to the ground with rocks so it would not move, then I can forget about the board and consentrate about the drilling. In my video "Fire with pocket knife" you can see my version of it. You impress me every time with your eskimo-style, I have to learn that, seems like a much quicker setup than a bowdrill. Thanks for sharing your fine skills. Atb, Odd

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

***** Thank you Odd. Actually with the right woods I am just as fast if not faster with bow drill friction fire. Having the right posture and form when bow drilling goes a long way towards efficiency and success. i will check out your video mentioned as I know you are a man who "knows his stuff" and I have a lot respect for your knowledge and abilities.

[@survivorjohnny44]

That's pretty slick, thanks for posting this

[@TurtleBushcraft]

Nice job very cool way to use friction fire atb John

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Turtle Bushcraft Thank you John. Atb to you and yours as well.

[@poppopscarvinshop]

Fantastic Video, Thank Y'all Very Much!

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

+James White You are very welcome. Thank you for the kind words.

[@richardpeterson3753]

very clever.i think ill stick with a pump drill but thats a nice system.possibly one better suited to more experienced friction fire makers.a spin off of the two man bow drill.its clever.i like it.i may not use it but its good to keep in the back of the head.never know if i may actually need it.

[@19ghost73]

AWESOME - thanks for sharing!

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

19ghost73 Thank you and you are welcome

[@GopanBushcraft]

hahaha i love it that you are so calm and steady when you get a ember....i'm not :) hahaha thanks for Another great video! //zeth

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Zeth Linder With much practice and knowing correct form and materials, friction fire is quite predictable and reliable. So many people work much harder than they need too at friction fire. If they only knew a few key tips and tricks, it would be much easier for them.

[@doctari1061]

Well done. Nice design.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Doc Tari Thank you. Glad you liked the video

[@saraskold9631]

thanks for the video going to try this method!

[@yoopersurvival]

that is an awesome hearth board. so simple to make. my problem is making a birds nest for the ember

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

yoopersurvival Thank you. My favorite tinder nest is our local dried grass that has lots of grass blades versus a variety that has stout stems. If you have any of the described grass locally, give that a try.

[@t.w.milburn8264]

Howdy, Lonnie-Connie & 'Ole Friend-Buck; Really enjoyed watching this demo, Sure thought 4 a moment we were gonna C that Alaskan Bush beard go up in smoke L OL. Really enjoyed this 1. Thanks 4 sharing,Hoping the Camera lady is Feel'n Gooder ? Happy Trails From Down Yonder Have a Good'n ! ATB Ter & Mel " GOD BLESS "

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

T.W. Milburn It would probably take very little for that beard bush to go poof in flames. It would definitely be one of those moments where I would wish that I had done something different, lol Camera lady is indeed feeling "gooder" Thanks friends and atb to you and loved ones also

[@bowdrillaz]

Thanks for sharing! Extremely useful

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Bowdrillaz Bushcrafter You are welcome. I'm glad the video was useful for you.

[@Cornplanter]

Last year I visited my cousins in Fish Hook outside Palmer. I didn't want to leave.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

+Cornplanter I have known several people who lived on Palmer fishook road. Yep, there are worse places to be.

[@dondavey1959]

I think its great how you both are into sending us these videos so thanks to the both of you. I have yet to try this with my two boy when we go to the bush for a few days ages are 33 and 27. So my question is what other wood could we use ,we have a lot of cedar or popular,Tag alder just know willow. So if you could give me an alternate wood. Thanks Don

[@joshuahmoran]

another great video sir.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Joshuah Moran Thank you Wildman

[@garys_shave]

Lucky a cop didn't see you waving that fire-arm! LOL

[@MuskratJim]

You make it look so easy Lonnie! I need more practice....

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Muskrat Jim Once a person has good technique and good wood, friction fire really is easy. I really enjoy learning new methods of fire starting. I never outgrew my childhood fascination of fire lol. Thanks my friend for dropping by & commenting.

[@pamcass1974]

**Unique Friction Fire Hearth Board** **LOVE ESKIMO STRAP DRILL METHOD** **THANX VERY MUCH FOR SHARING**

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

pam cass Thank you. You are welcome. thanks for watching

[@martins700]

Nice video and clear instructions, thanks. But why not use a bow if you have wood around, surely you would be better off with the bow method? and would it be better to burn in your first hole then cut the step out? In case the hole doesn't end up where you intended?

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Martin S You are right......sort of. For me personally I find the bow drill easier to master and have a slightly easier time producing successful embers with bow and drill. BUT (and this is a big but) when the Eskimo strap drill really leaps out ahead is when natural cordage is needed because you don't have any cordage. The Eskimo strap drill is much more forgiving when using natural cordage than trying to use the cordage with a bow. And surely you must have seen the superiority of the Eskimo strap drill performed the traditional way while sitting versus the hearth on the ground bowdrill method when the ground is covered with deep snow or wet vegetation.

[@brianve7jyd943]

Nicely done

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Grim Reaper Thank you.

[@kullcraven]

LONNIE YOU CANT BATON WITH A MORA!!!!! lol APPARENTLY YOU CAN. LOL. Well man this is unique and a very neat way to make a hearth . As i watched it i seen you split the end off and set the spindle on the ledge, i figured that the lower ledge will be your dust catcher. That is still a cool friction fire method, tho i have not tried that technique, i worry about sticking myself in the eye lol .Well done, i love learning something new, thanks again Man i always learn from you , ATB and take care my friend.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Kullcraven Bushcraft Shhhh, don't tell my mora that it can't be baton-ed. I have got it convinced it is invincible. Truthfully I frequently baton using the mora. Yes they are not full tang but the polypropylene handle absorbs shock extremely well. Yes the lower shelf of the hearth is indeed the ember catcher. This is in contrast to the shelf along the length of the board like I demo-ed in "Learn The Eskimo Strap Drill" video which was quite labor intensive. Thanks my friend for stopping by.

[@abefroman9565]

I've set out to purposely break a Mora via Battoning and have failed miserably. Those little bastards are tougher than nails. I violently battoned and hammered it as mercilessly as I possibly could and I swear, it just looked me in the eye and smirked.... True story. I'm not even kidding, I could literally hear it giggling at me. Giggling like a little school girl. Just don't pry with it.....

[@kullcraven]

Abe they are tough, tho i have seen them break at the top of the handle where the blade is inserted, by other people. Tho use them right they are one of the best knives on the market.

[@abefroman9565]

*****​ Yes they are awesome knives. I was wondering, have you ever poked yourself in the face while using the Eskimo strap drill? I know that occasionally the spindle can slip from the socket, which would leave your face there to be smacked around by the pointed end of it... Have you had any issues with that? With my luck, I'd probably end up putting my eye out or something. Haha.

[@abefroman9565]

Kullcraven Bushcraft​ Haha, sorry. I had you mistaken for *****​​ Kullcraven Bushcraft​ I just saw one of your vids where you made a bow drill using only stone tools. I just wanted to say good job. I'm going to try that this week. A friend of mine challenged me to try it, so there's no getting out of it now. Haha.

[@buxtonwild3122]

Great Video lonnie

[@kennethcaloun5138]

nice video thanks friend

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

kenneth caloun Thank you and you are welcome

[@Bushcraft2survival]

Right on

[@drrwatcher]

Lonnie, thanks for being the first I've seen to bring this ancient twist to friction fire-starting hearthboards to KZbin. Apparently, ancient Northern cultures that had to start fires in frozen environments, needed to keep the embers away from the frozen snow/earth. Another point I've never seen on KZbin is the common ancient practice of adding a pinch of sand in friction fire-starting, which evidently helped by grinding off powder for the ember more quickly, and reportedly reducing the need for soft woods. For those that are interested I highly recommend reading the beautifully illustrated "Fire-making apparatus in the U.S. National Museum" by Walter Hough published in 1890. Do a google search for "fire-making apparatus walter hough" or try this link: archive.org/details/firemakingappara00houguoft

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

David Richards You are welcome. I have the book that you mention in the link. For people who enjoy learning primitive fire methods, the book is well worth the cost (free). Lots of great and useful info contained in that book.

[@drrwatcher]

I would be interested in whether you have ever tried the pinch of sand, and if so, what difference it made.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

David Richards I believe that I have tried it a time or two but don't remember for sure. With the propper material as well as the propper form, you dont need the sand as you can see in this video. It might be worth trying in less than optimal conditions to see if it adds any advantage though. I might give that a try again and do some testing with it.

[@drrwatcher]

Thanks, if you get around to trying it, please do let us know.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

David Richards I did try the few grains of sand yesterday or the day before and it did no good. Within just a few rotations of the spindle the sand was spit out and I was back where I started without the sand. I tried it several times with the same results.

[@AlbertaBushcrafter]

Great video, Lonnie! Loved the tip about the spindle as that's not too common knowledge from what I've seen. As for punkwood, I like it if it's bone-dry, but I've found it to be fairly hydrophilic so it can be tough to keep dry if you're not careful. Do you find this to be the case too?

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Alberta Bushcrafter You are right, punk is VERY hydrophilic. Once dry though, I try to keep it in a dry condition where moisture can not affect it. We have fairly moderate to dry weather here so the typical outside air is not enough to redampen the punk when once dried.

[@nickfree46]

hi lonnie, I've noticed how you survive with such few tools, ie axe saw and knife. would it be possible to do a video on how to care and sharpen these tools. I know your busy and if not got the time I will understand. I'm trying my new tent out but I'm going to give the fire reflector a try. God bless regards nick

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

I did recently do a video on how I keep my knife sharp. The link is located below if you missed it. I don't sharpen my little saws like my Bahco Laplander. I will put your axe sharpening request on my "to do" video list but no promises as to when I will get to it. You May Not Want To Sharpen A Dull Knife kzbin.info/www/bejne/nX2olZ14hZiagtU

[@terrysmith3051]

Thank you

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Terry Smith You are welcome Terry

[@Cornplanter]

Have you ever tried the "fire roll" technique? It's amazing how easy it is.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

+Cornplanter Yes I have tried it with all natural local materials and have not been successful yet. Someday I will do a lot more research into the natural materials that can be used with this in a survival type scenario and put more time into becoming knowledgable about it.

[@BrosephRussell]

very nice I like your pack you have.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

+Joseph Russell Thank you. The pack is the "Rush 72" by 5.11

[@BrosephRussell]

im gonna try that out

[@Wintertrekker]

Good demo Lonnie!

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Wintertrekker Thank you friend. Thanks also for watching.

[@1fanger]

Hey guys, real interesting, as usual.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

1fanger Thank you friend

[@DocLarsen44]

Excellent video and information; I won't be quite so intimidated the next time I need to start a friction fire after seeing you do it in such a relaxed, unfrantic manner. One question, what are the properties of the willow wood that make it good for your board and your drill? I ask so that if willow is not available, I can select an alternative with nearly the same properties. Thanks for sharing you knowledge!

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

DocLarsen44 Thank you Doc. Many soft woods are useful as friction fire woods. My local favorites are willow and cottonwood. Here is a good web resource that might help www.primitiveways.com/Fire%20Making%20Materials.html

[@DocLarsen44]

***** Wow, Lonnie; thanks for the link! That is great info.

[@n8mayfield]

I have to try this method, another great video. Wouldnt suppose Charlie would sell those wonderful mouth pieces would he?

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

n8mayfield I have asked Charlie before on behalf of others. He has chosen to make them for close friends only.

[@n8mayfield]

***** I respect that, thank you. Looking forward to future videos from you, always impressed with the knowledge shared

[@nacholibre1962]

Lonnie: A couple of questions: Firstly, would any other wood be a good idea; i.e., does it need to be a hardwood? Secondly, what pack do you have there and how do you rate it?

[@HamRadio2008]

you rock!

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

HamRadio2008 Thank you HR

[@BacktotheBasics101]

what kind of handsaw do you use or recommend? Love your family friendly show.👍🏼 every time. Happy trails Luke

[@BacktotheBasics101]

Oh and PS, I was the 700 th thumbs up.👍🏼

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Hello Luke and thanks for the kind words. My favorite handsaw is my Bigboy 2000 by Silky. That is the saw i carry with me all the time and I also highly recommend the saw. It is a little long so you may want to consider it's length in reference to where and how you want to carry the saw. Due in part to that longer length, the saw is real useful for most any bushcraft / camping need. I don't mind cutting larger diameter logs for the hot tent woodstove with this saw near as much as I did with my bow saws as well as the little Bahco Laplander.

[@NatesOutdoors]

I subbed,this dude is awesome,im gonna do some camping myself this year,fall and winter,i have a huge question could you make a bow and arrow? I made your stove from the bucket,thanks for the info sir

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Thank you very much for the sub. Welcome to the channel. Hope you have some grand and memorable times out camping. Yes, making survival bows are fairly simple. I do plan on doing a video about this subject sometime in the future but no promises as to when.

[@NatesOutdoors]

+Far North Bushcraft And Survival ok that's very cool and thank you sir

[@williamsliemers1758]

I am using pine and pine and I get lots of dust but no ember. What am I doing wrong? Thanks for being there for us.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

william sliemers I have heard that pine can be used but I don't believe it is an ideal wood. I know that spruce here in Alaska does work also but is a difficult wood. What color is your dust? what texture? You need to be getting dark brown to black dust that is fuzzy. If you are getting tiny rolls then you may be going too fast with not enough downward pressure. This web site might help you. www.wildwoodsurvival.com/survival/fire/bowdrill/pmoc/basicbowdrill.htmlHere is another web site that may help in wood selection. Willow on willow is my favorite followed by cottonwood on cottonwood. www.primitiveways.com/Fire%20Making%20Materials.html

[@Tossdart]

Ceeerap trapper bob set his beard on fire. Oh wait sorry had my red tint sunglasses on ;). Still here Lonnie.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Tossdart The beard probably *would* catch on fire quite readily if giving the chance. I just hope I'm not wearing it if it ever does catch on fire lol It is part of my survival fire kit as a tinder lol

[@ssb557]

Tossdart I was worried he might get his beard tangled in the bow line, using that mouth piece technique! Very good tool and technique Ive never seen that before. The mouth piece thing or the way he set up the board.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Sm0keBeard Lol When I use a shorter spindle I DO catch my beard hairs. OUCH. When using a longer spindle though I'm able to keep the cordage far enough away from the beard so as not to catch any hairs.

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Tossdart I carry my emergency fire kit on my face lol

[@ssb557]

That makes sense, good tip, as always!

[@rankerhanshaw]

Excellent video. Can you use the mouthpiece for a hand drill fire?

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Yes you could but the body position of holding it in the mouth over the spindle is not as conducive to efficient hand drill operation as when the body is more upright. Also you are potentially putting the face and neck into more danger of accidental aggressive contact with the spindle when performing hand drill while using a mouth held bearing block.

[@rankerhanshaw]

Thanks for the quick response. I am new to primitive fire making. I thought the steady pressure might help. Maybe use a longer spindle?

[@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival]

Trying to rapidly move the hands back and forth as in the hand drill friction fire method while very close to the body is a little more cumbersome and less natural feeling than when the arms can be extended a bit. Not saying it can't be done however.