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Field Compendium

Bow drill

Tools & ImplementsPaleolithic – present

Reference plate — Bow drill — Reference plate — A bow drill is a simple hand-operated type of tool, consisting of a rod that is set in rapid rotary motion by means of a cord wrapped around it, kept taut by a bow which is pushed back and forth with one hand. Imagery and notes drawn from Wikimedia Commons under a free licence (public domain or CC). No copyright is claimed by this compendium.

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More Tools & Implements

Tools & Implements

Hand drill

The simplest friction-fire tool — a spindle rolled between the palms.

Paleolithic – present

Tools & Implements

Fire plow

A stick pushed along a grooved board to raise an ember by friction.

Prehistoric – present

Tools & Implements

Flint and steel

Striking hardened steel against flint to shower sparks onto tinder.

Iron Age – present

Tools & Implements

Pump drill

A flywheel drill that converts a pumping motion into rapid spin.

Ancient

Survival Tip

Keep a compass away from magnets and electronics when reading it. They can pull its needle away from the correct direction.

Children: learn with a trusted adult and stay together outdoors. These tips support learning, not hands-on training or emergency help. In danger, contact local emergency services.

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