Today, we’re sharing the camping expertise of Michael Van Fleet and his wife, Megan MacDuff, co-founders of a camping community website dedicated to sharing outdoor cooking and camping experiences. Join them as they guide you step by step on how to craft a Swedish Torch using basic tools like an axe, chainsaw, and regular wood.
Swedish Torch: An Efficient Cooking Campfire The Swedish Torch, initially employed by the Swedish military during the Thirty Years’ War, is a type of campfire that requires only a single log. It remains effective even on damp or snow-covered ground, making it a simple and fast cooking campfire solution when wood resources are limited.
Advantages of the Swedish Torch: While there are countless methods to make campfires, the Swedish Torch offers unique advantages for cooking:
- Flat Cooking Surface: Place the flat end of the log downwards, providing a surface for cooking utensils such as kettles, grills, or cast-iron pots, depending on the log’s size.
- Quick and Controllable Flames: Traditional campfires are challenging to control, often requiring an hour or more before cooking can begin. The Swedish Torch’s log efficiently burns with directed flames, allowing cooking within 20 minutes.
- Elevated Fire Source: Even with dry wood, setting up a traditional campfire can be challenging on extremely wet or snow-covered ground. The Swedish Torch’s flames are raised above the ground, preventing evaporation from extinguishing the fire.
- Excellent Self-Ventilation: Unlike most campfires that require occasional attention, the Swedish Torch becomes self-sustaining once ignited. As embers burn at the top, they fall into the log’s gaps, igniting from top to bottom. Air is continuously drawn in through side gaps.
Tools and Equipment for Crafting the Swedish Torch:
- Fiskar Super Splitter Long-Handle Axe (Log Splitting): Specifically designed for splitting large logs into smaller ones, this axe is ideal for creating the structure of the Swedish Torch.
- Fiskar Hatchet Short-Handle Axe: After splitting the wood, this axe assists in further breaking it down, creating rough edges for easy ignition.
- Log Carrying Tote: Transporting firewood to the campsite can be cumbersome. Use this tote to keep the wood contained and prevent a mess.
- Leather Work Gloves: When handling wood for campfires, a pair of suitable work gloves helps prevent accidents.
Selecting Wood for the Swedish Torch: The key is to use dry wood, as freshly cut logs are filled with moisture, making them challenging to burn. Avoid wet wood and opt for thoroughly dried options.
Crafting Methods: Depending on available tools, there are several methods to craft the Swedish Torch.
- Using an Axe to Chop a Whole Log:
- Find or cut a suitable-sized round log, then flatten both ends.
- Use the axe to divide the log into quarters or sixths.
- Reassemble the split pieces and secure them with wire at the base.
- Using a Chainsaw to Cut a Whole Log:
- Select or cut a properly sized round log with flat ends.
- Stand the log vertically and use a chainsaw to cut it into quarters or sixths.
- Leave a section uncut at the bottom to maintain structural integrity.
- Roughen the inner edges with the axe for enhanced ignition.
Igniting the Swedish Torch:
Now that you have crafted the Swedish Torch, it’s time to light it up!
[Additional notes, tips, and safety precautions can be included here.]
Conclusion: By following these steps, you can create a Swedish Torch for an efficient and controlled cooking campfire. Remember to prioritize safety and enjoy the unique advantages this method offers for your outdoor adventures. Happy camping!