Kitpedia

Fire starter

Fire

Prepared tinder — cubes, wax fire-plugs, or fatwood — that catches when nature won’t.

Approx. cost
$5–$15
Weight
2–4 oz
Used in
1 kit

Purpose

Get a flame established in wet, cold, or hurried conditions.

Used in kits

Alternatives

  • Cotton and petroleum jelly— The classic cheap DIY; make it at home.
  • Fatwood— Natural, waterproof, and long-lasting.

Maintenance notes

  • Keep tinder in a sealed bag so it stays dry.

Buying considerations

  • Wax cubes light from a spark and burn long enough to dry kindling.
  • A little guaranteed-dry tinder saves a cold night.

Page history & editing

Revision status: approved Last edited 2026-07-01 by human editor