Uploaded September 2012 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Using a ferro rod I demonstrate fire starting with a 3-strand braided and waxed jute tinder tube tool. This is a convenient, dry, non-messy, re-useable alternative to PJ soaked tinders. To prove it is waterproof or very water resistant, I show dunking it in water and then re-fluffing the end to light it. In windy and wet conditions a sustained flame can help start a fire. I did not invent this, I got the idea from several Youtube videos showing how nicely waxed jute works, and then I modified it into the tinder tube concept. With a ferro rod it lights every time as long as you fluff up the fibers before striking, and don't fluff them until ready to light it so that the tip stays dry until needed. Off camera I tried it with flint and steel and could not catch a spark, so I think it is reserved for the ferro rod, lighters and matches.
Using a ferro rod I demonstrate fire starting with a 3-strand braided and waxed jute tinder tube tool. This is a convenient, dry, non-messy, re-useable alternative to PJ soaked tinders. To prove it is waterproof or very water resistant, I show dunking it in water and then re-fluffing the end to light it. In windy and wet conditions a sustained flame can help start a fire. I did not invent this, I got the idea from several Youtube videos showing how nicely waxed jute works, and then I modified it into the tinder tube concept. With a ferro rod it lights every time as long as you fluff up the fibers before striking, and don't fluff them until ready to light it so that the tip stays dry until needed. Off camera I tried it with flint and steel and could not catch a spark, so I think it is reserved for the ferro rod, lighters and matches.
