Ready For Fire?

Select a waterproof match case that can be opened easily, even when your fingers are cold and numb. I prefer the plastic match cases that can be opened by placing it's top in the palm of your hand and twisting the top off with your other hand, eliminating those cold fingers. What you don't want to happen in all your energy getting wasted on trying to open your matches. This will become frustrating and will result in you becoming very impatient in the time of need.

Also take into consideration the matches themselves. I use the larger stick matches. I prefer Diamond Brand Strike Anywhere matches. DOn't rely on the book of cardboard matches you picked up on your last resupply at the local pub or in the hiker box.

One more thing. Try to also bring a good lighter, but remember lighting them can become difficult with cold hand. I like the standard gas station Bic lighters. Choose one that is not child proof and that produces the highest flame. The reasons I prefer these lighters are they are fairly reliable, light, and the fuel tends to last longer than butane lighters. Butane lighters are great for starting a fire...when they work and are filled with fuel.

Submitted by SvenSaw, 2003 AT Thru-Hiker

Update: A reader writes...

"BIC lighters are butane lighters. In transparent, semi-transparent, or translucent-colored lighters, typically disposable cigarette lighters, the "fuel" that is seen is actually liquified butane gas under high pressure. The "empty" part of the lighter's fuel tank, above the liquid 'fuel,' is the actual butane gas. When the liquified butane has disappeared from the "fuel" tank, one still has a tankful of the gaseous butane yet remaining.

Just wanted to clear that up. SvenSaw's article was good except for that one misunderstanding."

Thanks for the clarification, Tim!

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