Solar ignition

[Wildwomaninthebush]

I know that you can use many different ways to make a fire. Like:
Bow drills
magnifier
flint and steel
matches ect

but I want to know if you can use the bottom of a glass bottle, like a magnifying glass. I am assuming you can, but I can't find a video or website that demonstrates this.

 

[jackcbr]

I've seen the bottom of a drinks can and some char cloth used to get an ember. Also a fresnel lens and a camera lens.

In fact, if its sunny this weekend, I'm going o give the drinks can a go, thanks for the inspiration.

 

[spandit]

Is that the drinks can and chocolate trick? Had a go a while back but couldn't get it shiny enough

 

[Mick721]

I've seen a good vid somewhere, where a upside-down clear water bottle was used. The neck was rounded, so when it has water in it becomes a convex lens. I'll try and get a link.

 

[Mick721]

Drinks bottle technique

http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=QwQJ-3pZfwc&desktop_uri=/watch?v=QwQJ-3pZfwc

 

[Mick721]

Or you could try this!

http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=jrje73EyKag&feature=relmfu

 

[bopdude]

Nice links Mick, the plastic bottle is cool, the tv screen is awesome, dangerous but awesome, thanks.

 

[Mick721]

Good isn't it. I've got a rear projection TV. But what do I need the most? A TV or 2000'c solar death ray? Hmm decisions.....

 

[mrcharly]

I've know bushfires started in australia from discarded bottles.

 

[Mick721]

I've know bushfires started in australia from discarded bottles.

What about discarded 50" fresnel lenses?

 

[spandit]

I've know bushfires started in australia from discarded bottles.

That was the excuse I used when I accidentally set fire to a small copse in France (using bangers!)

 

[jackcbr]

Well had a go at the drinks can idea this weekend, no joy. But I think it is more me than the method. Will give it a go again next time there is some sun.

 

[spandit]

Did you polish it with chocolate?

 

[leon-1]

Did you polish it with chocolate?

You will work for a long time to get that shiny enough with chocolate, you could use some toothpaste to start off with to help to remove the protective coating on the base of the can.

 

[Lister]

If you have Tormek (or any honing compound) in your sharps kit) that works a treat instead of chocolate.

 

[tim_n]

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Large-Fre...41022042522?pt=UK_Gadgets&hash=item20d591999a

Anyone know of bigger ones? I fancy a death ray.

 

[jackcbr]

Chocolate didn't work, tooth paste wasn't much better. In the vein of a wild scenario, I think I will see if a bit of grit and mud to start the polishing. Fingers crossed the sun will come out again soon to have another play.

 

[tim_n]

Found a metre square lens... Only £250. Hmmm.