Swedish Torch

If you have access to a chainsaw some dry softwood and a Swede here's a great way to make a self-contained camp fire with integrated pot supports!

Step 1: Cut 3 Slots in the Log.

Unfortunately I am not dexterous enough to use a chainsaw and take pictures simultaneously. Sorry. Use the saw to cut at least 3/4 of the way down the length of the log.

Step 2: Build a Bundle of Kindling in the Middle of the Log

As this kindling burns the thin sections of the log near the top will start burning and air will be sucked through the cracks lower down

Step 3: Light Your Fire!

You'll notice that after a couple of minutes your fire will descend down into the log completely protecting it from the wind.

Step 4: The Outer Layer of the Log Should Remain

On these outer sections of the log you can place your pan!

Step 5: Modified Example

Here's another option- I you have some lumber lying around you can tie it together with spacers (nails) between the pieces to allow airflow in. It's the same concept. But with found scrap lumber!!!

Comments

[OddJob]

I have, or am, all of those elements! Will give this a try. If you have to blow on it to get the fire started a bit; you now have a Swedish Blow Torch...

[HM19]

You do not start the fire on top of the log. You put your tinder/kindling like birch bark at the bottom, inserting it into the sides and work your way up. Fire does not "descend down into the log" lmao

[Wobblyoldpunt]

Ummmm .... be nice, we all do things our own way :)

[HM19]

I should add light it from the bottom, in case that isn't obvious lol

[EgbertS2]

Dude: tell a firefighter that fire doesn't descend downwards and watch his reaction.

[josh]

Good point! I’ve never lit a Swedish torch from the bottom although it is fun to flip them upside down after they’re burning pretty good!

[racoontnn]

But in the photos shown are not a Swedish fire. Swedish fire burns inside split logs, and not from the top! This can be a kindling fire, but not burning.

[Wobblyoldpunt]

It does say that the burn will be drawn down into the slots and then smoulder outwards. It’s exactly the same but with a small modification. A Husqvarna fire perhaps? 😉

[nytowl520]

The chainsaw cuts take the place of individual split logs, therefore not having to pile the split logs together, as the bottom of the log is still intact.

[Kyzz]

its a while since I took a chainsaw with me when I went camping, but I'll keep it in mind.

[mnkelsner]

if you just split a piece of wood (or use alreay split pieces the same length) and then wrap some baling wire around them using sticks to make gaps, it works just great and it's very easy to manage the fire.

[Angelbane]

Well most places you can legally camp make you bring your fire wood in now so doing this would be a great idea.

[SuzyM1]

Many places you cannot bring your own firewood because of the possibility of infestations depending on where you live.

[Mugsy Knuckles]

Split the log into eight wedges with an axe and jam them back together. Either bury the bottom, pile some rocks around it, or wrap some wire around to keep it intact while it burns.
But a chainsaw is a hell of a lot easier

[synthdust]

Pre cut at home?

[mnkelsner]

I have tried these with a number of types of wood cutting 2/3 slots with chainsaw works great... Splitting a piece of wood and wrapping bailing wire around it works great, dry or seasoned wood is best but once you get it going even wet wood goes well because the air circulation makes it burn pretty hot. I tried to cut one with a skill saw and it burns but the thin slots dont let enough air through, I will try to drill one soon... a 1" hole down the middleand one in from the side to make an L shape is suppose to work well.

[nytowl520]

This looks really easy to do! Stick one of those pine-sap soaked starter sticks into the split, and bam, it's started.

[josh]

Yep! that works great! you can also melt and mix candle wax and saw dust and pour it on top. makes a great Christmas gift for your friends who camp!

[DylanD581]

Swedish Torches are great for cooking, and are fun to start! Did you see this featured in Make: Magazine and on their website?

[josh]

They stole my idea?! ;) naw I’ve know about it for years and decided I should share with everyone!