Damn, These Firestarters Suck! (Nutnfancy Snow Testing)

Published on January 29, 2016
Duration: 26:40

This guide details how to prepare a fire-starting test environment in deep snow, as demonstrated by Nutnfancy. It covers building a stable platform, preparing tinder and kindling, and testing various firestarters like Trioxane, UST WetFire, Esbit, SOL Tinder-Quik, and UST Light-Me Tinder. The assessment highlights Trioxane as the most reliable for extreme cold and snow conditions, while criticizing others for unreliability.

Quick Summary

Nutnfancy's winter survival test reveals Trioxane fuel bars as the superior firestarter for extreme cold and snow. While others like UST WetFire, Esbit, SOL Tinder-Quik, and UST Light-Me Tinder faltered due to brittleness, ignition issues, or inability to sustain flame in moist air, Trioxane reliably ignited with flint and steel, generating essential heat. Wood moisture content was also highlighted as a critical factor, often exceeding 100% and requiring verification with a moisture meter.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Environment
  2. 01:35Wood Preparation
  3. 02:06Building a Fire Platform
  4. 03:12Firestarter Lineup
  5. 07:46Testing Tools and Moisture Content
  6. 09:56Field Testing: Successes and Failures
  7. 12:21Cotton-Based Tinder Critique
  8. 14:41Final Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best firestarter for extreme cold and snow?

According to Nutnfancy's testing in deep snow and cold temperatures, Trioxane fuel bars are the most reliable firestarter. They consistently ignite with flint and steel and generate sufficient heat, outperforming other tested options like UST WetFire, Esbit cubes, and cotton-based tinders.

Why did some firestarters fail in the snow test?

Several firestarters failed due to the extreme cold and moisture. UST WetFire was brittle, Esbit cubes wouldn't ignite, and cotton-based tinders like SOL Tinder-Quik and UST Light-Me Tinder struggled to stay lit after requiring extensive preparation, highlighting the need for robust chemical fuel bars.

How can I ensure my wood is dry enough for fire starting in winter?

Even wood that appears dry can hold significant moisture in cold, damp conditions, potentially up to 100%. Nutnfancy recommends using a moisture meter to accurately assess wood readiness before attempting to start a fire.

What tools are useful for winter fire starting preparation?

Essential tools include MSR Denali Classic snowshoes for deep snow, a heavy-duty survival knife like the TOPS Armageddon for splitting wood, a 'Snow Claw' tool for clearing platforms, and a moisture meter to check wood dryness. Flint and steel are crucial for ignition.

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