Homemade rat trap

You might not always have access to store bought traps, or you might prefer less lethal means of eradication. In any case, its good to know one or two ways to catch household varmints with stuff lying around the house.

Hand drill fire

It took about a week to get my hands conditioned for this and I have the healing blisters to prove it. So, anybody that saw me walking around spinning a stick between my hands - now you know. This is my new favorite firecraft method, since the prep is minimal and materials abundant.

Steel wool fire starter

The 9 volt/steel wool fire trick always seemed cheesy to me. What are the chances I'd have either out in the woods? With a little experimentation, though, it became obviouse this stuff would take a spark off anything. Turns out fine 0000 steel wool is an exceptional tinder alternative (but ditch the battery).

Bamboo fire saw

There is a lot of bamboo growing in my area. Utilizing a technique developed in the jungles of southeast asia, bamboo can be used to start a fire. It's always important to make due with what you have. 

Plant profile - Wood & Sheep Sorrel

Lots of "weeds" are edible and even good for you. Don't wait until the grocery stores sit empty before learning what's what.

Improve your chances, Tip # 4

Keep a lighter in your pocket or bag, even if you don't smoke. A bic will light over 3000 times. If you don't accidentally press the thumb bar down and let all the gas out, you might never use it up. Pretty good investment for $1.

Fire lens

I really struggled with this method. There are so many anecdotal accounts of kids burning down neighborhoods trying to fry ants... I thought it would be super simple. There is actually a finese to it -certain materials work best, the ember must be coaxed a particular way. This lady fire is a fickle hellcat.