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@unlofl@mstdn.social the metal straw thingum is a game changer.

fwiw back when i did a fuckton of camping, i would carry some lint in a film canister, ferrorod as a backup, and a zippo + fuel + spare flint as my primary source of fire.

blue jeans lint is by far the best -- yes, i tested this at one point. other stuff likes to pop and crackle or smoulders (too much inorganic fibers). i never added vaseline or wax to it to make my own woodfat type stuff, careful selection of tinder will obviate that need.

prior to using ferrorod as a backup, i'd use a magnifying lens. the one time i needed it, it was overcast just enough to not let it do the trick so i switched.

i'm going camping again in about 3 weeks, and zippo + ferrorod/magnesium will be what i bring. and yes, i'm aware of the limitations of this system, and the fact that i have to hike fuel in and out isn't lost on me (something i otherwise avoid). by all measures, picking up a new-in-box BIC on the way to the trailhead is a better way to do it in 99% of circumstances.

a prepper will have a dozen different ways to start a fire. a boy scout will pull out a lighter. 👍