Bow Drill Fire Day Two

This video shows how to make fire by friction using bow drill. It explains what goes into completing the task at hand and mistakes to avoid. Reviewing this video helped me understand where I was going wrong. I now have a much better understanding of how to get the job done.

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• fire bow

[ducttapewireandglue]

As previously mentioned, a more solid and shorter bow will reduce flex and keep the rope taught on the spindle which will help reduce slippage. Also a spline on the spindle may help reduce slippage (hexagonal type shape rather than a perfectly round spindle). The spline will help to bind with the larger 'bumps' in the.natural fibre cordage.

[MiWilderness]

@ducttapewireandglue Thanks! I've since shortened the bow about a foot, but I do prefer a slighly longer bow. It just feels right balance wise for me. 4' was a bit much though. :) Actually I've changed a lot about the way I do this whole thing now.

[RobertMOdell]

How did you make the string? Thanks.

[MiWilderness]

@RobertMOdell There's a video here called "Dogbane cordage leg rolling technique" that shows how I made the cordage for the day one vid. But, the cordage I got fire with on day two was nylon rope if I recall correctly.

[gundog5]

If it's OK, a couple suggestions. 4' is kinda long for a bow. I favor around 2'. A longer narrower point on the spindle top can make it easier. Leaf lube is good. Try pine sap to compare lube differences.

Natural cordage usually requires more care. Make sure bowstring is not rubbing against itself (wrapping around spindle). A shorter bow will allow you to angle accordingly. Use thumb & fingers to add tension to bowstring as it loosens. With more experience, you'll be proficient in no time.

[MiWilderness]

@gundog5 I appreciate the suggestions very much, thanks. I will try the things you mentioned.

[MiWilderness]

@gundog5 Thank you! I want to show the learning process. I can learn from watching my own videos and hope others can learn from my mistakes. After reviewing the vid, I see many things I could have done differently that were not apparent to me when I was attempting this.

[gundog5]

Nicely done, MiWilderness! It's great to see someone do a genuine real-world attempt. Especially including the failures with the successes. Many folks won't show their failures which often misleads the audience to think they got it so easy the 1st time. Very gutsy to go with all-natural materials as it adds to the challenge. Thanks for bein' real!

You stayed calm, cool, & collected quite well. You're one of the few I haven't seen freak out & rush to put the ember in the bundle.