Here’s a simple method to have a long burning fire in your back yard or camping. Swedish Torches will burn for hours, providing light, heat and a good cooking spot.
This centuries old technique has been used for light, warmth and cooking. It is a very compact and manageable way to achieve those needs. Keeping one or two in your camping supplies is a great way to quickly start cooking or having light.
You’ll need a drill, an auger or spade bit at least 1” in diameter, a chainsaw and some dry kindling.
First, choose a good, well seasoned log. The wood shouldn't be too dry. If it is, it will burn too quickly. Choose the right wood for your needs. For quick heat, lots of flame and quick start, pick resinous softwoods such as pine, fir or spruce. If you will want to cook on them, select. hardwoods like beech, oak, apple, ash or cherry.
Next secure the log and drill a 1" to 1-1/2" spade bit directly down the center of the log. Go as deep as you can, about 2/3rds for lenght of the log.
With a chainsaw, cut several vertical slits. Between 2 to4 cuts, creating 4 to 8 sections, should do the trick.
Your Swedish Torch is almost ready.
Gather and save some of that dry sawdust or other dry tinder to gently drop down the hole. Shavings of Fatwood are excellent starters. Ignite and enjoy.