Northwest Hiking

As a final to the series, I would like to take time to discuss in a little more depth the benefits of using different kinds of fire starter.  A variety of fire starting implements are available on the market, but in most cases, they are specific to only a few applications out in the great outdoors.  Here are some options for fire starting and their general uses.

• Matches:  The good ol’ fashioned way.  Get strike anywhere or hurricane matches.  They burn longer and will work almost anywhere.  Try to use matches only in dry weather and remember that they are always in limited supply.
• Magnesium Sticks:  Forever a personal favorite, this will start anywhere, in any weather, at any time.  Use these like a breath mint — no matter what you’re doing, it will always be good to have.
• Lighters:  Perfect for on the go.  Again, these will start any place, but they only have a limited amount of fuel, so use very wisely.   Wet or dry conditions are perfectly appropriately for this.

Some might suggest that all three is overkill, but my only suggestion is this: better to be caught with a backpack full of untouched survival gear than not found at all.  Safe hiking and stay warm, dry, and enjoying that campfire!

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