Whether you are hiking in the backcountry or enjoying a bonfire at the lake, the Swedish fire log (aka Swedish fire torch or Canadian Candle) is the solution to building a long-lasting fire. Using only a single self-feeding log, you'll have a fire to warm up by and roast s'mores on ASAP.
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Used by the Swedes during the Thirty Years War, this method of building a fire, especially on wet ground, is better than the traditional campfire in many ways.
Why You Should Use the Swedish Fire Log?
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The single log itself provides a flat surface perfect for placing your cast iron pan and cooking up some food. And let's not forget the entire split firewood burns slowly while entirely contained, making it a great fire to use while camping.
To make this Swedish torch, all you really need is a large log from a tree trunk and a chainsaw. Seems too easy to be true, right?
First things first, grab a dry wood log and set in out the dry grass with the log standing on its flat end. Using a chainsaw (or even a handsaw if that's all you have) and cut slits in the log, stopping before you cut all the way through.
You want it to stay as a single log for better transportation and burning. If you have cut through the entire log, just wrap the logs with baling wire to keep them together.
Once you are out at the campsite, it's time to get the log prepped to burn. Gather up some kindling like birch bark and paper, and place the kindling into the center of the log. A small amount goes a long way.
Place a bit of the kindling and tinder on the top of the long in the center. Light the tinder, and watch the embers fall into the middle of the log. It should light, creating a self-sustaining fire.
This article was originally published on December 19, 2017.
