Can you start a fire in the rain with basic supplies?

Choosing the Right Materials

When it comes to starting a fire in the rain, the right materials are crucial. Look for dry, protected areas like under a tree or a rock overhang to gather your supplies. You’ll need a piece of string or cordage, a stick (about 1/4 inch in diameter and 12-18 inches long), and a piece of softwood (about 1 inch in diameter and 6-8 inches long). These materials will help you create a bow drill or hand drill to generate heat.

Creating a Fireboard

To create a fireboard, find a piece of softwood or bamboo and carve a shallow depression in it, about 1 inch in diameter and 1/4 inch deep. This depression will hold the tinder. Next, create a notch in the fireboard, about 1/4 inch deep and 1/2 inch wide. This notch will guide the drill stick. Use a small rock or piece of bone to shape the notch and the depression.

Starting the Fire

To start the fire, place a small amount of tinder (dry leaves, grass, or small twigs) in the depression. Loop the string around the drill stick and use it to create friction on the fireboard. Apply moderate pressure and rotate the drill stick quickly to generate heat. As the fireboard begins to smoke, gently blow on it to ignite the tinder. Once the tinder is burning well, add small sticks and gradually increase the size of the sticks to build a full fire.