I have embarked on learning the skill of lighting a fire with a traditional flint and steel striker. I am however unable to get a spark, not even a glimmer (I am just practising to try and get a reasonable spark without using charcloth/tinder at the moment) I am sure it is to do with either the angle I am holding the flint, or the pressure of the flint against the striker. If anyone is able to help I would be grateful.
The kit is a new good quality striker (so it has no wear and is still quite shiny) and a piece of brown flint (chert) - I have heard that brown flint can be harder to get a spark (I do have some black flint so could change to that if needed).
I am holding the flint at about 45 degrees upwards and bringing the striker down to meet it reasonably quickly, a flick of the wrist type action - do I need to follow that movement through using pressure?
Thanks in advance
The kit is a new good quality striker (so it has no wear and is still quite shiny) and a piece of brown flint (chert) - I have heard that brown flint can be harder to get a spark (I do have some black flint so could change to that if needed).
I am holding the flint at about 45 degrees upwards and bringing the striker down to meet it reasonably quickly, a flick of the wrist type action - do I need to follow that movement through using pressure?
Thanks in advance