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    cotton wool and Vasoline

    the stuff that I use is eyemake pads soaked in melted paraffin (just melt a candle in a container of some sort). after that parrafin hardens and it becomes totally waterproof. you need to make some shavings to get it ignited though (or use a lighter to get it started)
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    Bowdrill fire problem

    Here's the gadget that I'm going to use. It's just paracord with two leather strips that are pretty much like slingshot pouches. My brother is really into slingshots so he made these extra long pouches (long enough for thumbs to fit in) for me.
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    Bowdrill fire problem

    Hey everybody! Today I managed to start a fire with my kit using a skateboard wheel. I admit that it made it so much easier, but I also realised that I was using too much pressure before with wooden top bearings. Next time, I'll try to start a fire without the skateboard wheel. I'll let you...
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    Bowdrill fire problem

    Thanks for all the tips guys! Unfortunately, I don't live close to the coast. I've tried putting somewhat of a metal inlay in the top bearing block, it improves the top friction problem, however the metal part gets freaking hot, it even sizzles if I put my finger on it. Have to be careful or I...
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    Bowdrill fire problem

    I thought that I'll give up the bow drill for now because I am getting some numbing sensation in my pinky finger of the hand which holds the bearing block. Or is it a sign that I am pushing too hard? The skateboard wheel idea looks really good, now I have to go into my backyard and try it! :D
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    Bowdrill fire problem

    Sorry for posting again, but Is there an edit button in this forum? I just can't find it. Here's the result of my drilling: And here's my setup: Uploaded with ImageShack.us
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    Bowdrill fire problem

    Played around with the bow a bit more today and failed. Tomorrow I'll probably go and look for some different kind of wood. Has anyone tried osier? It's somewhat similar to willow and quite common in my area.
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    Bowdrill fire problem

    Hey guys, I just got an ember! Apparently you have to really let it build after spinning it. I succeeded with a hazel spindle and birch hearth. Also, I've read that grass leaves can be used as a lubricant and it worked excellent! Too bad I didn't have a decent tinder bundle ready.
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    Bowdrill fire problem

    Hello everybody, Recently I've been trying to get an ember using a bow drill. I made a nice hazel bow with a paracord string, set the tension right (feels not too tight, doesn't slip either). The top bearing block is made of oak. However, I still get a lot of friction in the top, even with...