How to Use a Flint Stick

Co-authored by Ky Furneaux

Last Updated: November 3, 2024

A flint stick is a tool made of a stick of flint and a small sheet of steel, and it's used to light fires. This article will tell you how to use one.

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(If no fire is created from sparks alone, scrape some of the flint into filings on your tinder; then light these filings with sparks) ^{[3]
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Question

Could I use a rock instead of steel?

Community Answer

It depends on what rock you use. Most rocks will work.

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Question

What if I’m on a desert island without a proper flint and steel; how could I make a fire and find the correct things?

sebastian gomez

Community Answer

You can make a hand drill, it needs just two sticks. One has to be a board-like shape, and the other has to be straight and narrow, about as long as the tip of your middle finger to your elbow. Spin the thin stick with your hands into the board, putting pressure as you go downwards. Keep going until you see a spark.

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Tips

Scrape the stick hard. If you don't scrape hard, no sparks will come and no fire will be made.

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Repeat and practice. Learning it is hard, but you can do it.

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Scrape the flint fast this creates the friction that causes the spark

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Warnings

Put out the fire when you're done. Just because you've dumped water on it doesn't mean it's completely out. People have died because of improperly doused fires.

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Keep a good supply of water handy for emergencies.

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Lay stones around the fire to keep it from spreading if you're in a dry area.

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As in the case of doing anything with fire, there is a risk you may be burned.

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Do not allow small children to light a fire.

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Things You'll Need

A flint stick
A piece of steel
Dry leaves, grass, or paper
Wood
Water
Stones

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