firefire

Thanks very much for the response swansont I think I might use the sun later in the year!

Thanks very much externet, The reason I ask how I can estimate the type of light that might work easily is because I would like to use the most mundane light possible. It seems a laser may be mundane for you Thanks

Sorry I'm a little confused how do I measure the 'power'? Lets reverse it, say for example - i have a halogen table lamp, 20w. - I am using lenses made of clear ice or water in a plastic bag to focus the light. If there a way to measure how much I can focus the light with these lenses and therefore how much power is required? Thanks for your your response.

Thanks StringJunky, Natural tinder is a wonderful thing! King alfred cakes have to be my favorite. http://www.mushroomdiary.co.uk/2010/06/cramp-balls/ they have a good glow.

Thanks swansont, So just to clarify, I am looking for a spot light with a narrow spectrum and big magnifying glass to focus the light, it should be possible. Are their some light bulbs that emit more 'light' that would aid me? How is that measured? Thanks THanks Externet, SO many ways to start a fire! Really trying to use the light from a distance. cheers

Hello, I realise this sounds a little dubious as a request. I posted about making fire with the mid winter sun and it isn't enough to get the fire going (it is often cloudy for most of the day here) so I am trying electric light. I thought it would be quite good if I'm after the IR end of the spectrum for heat. How can I estimate which type of bulb to use and the number of watts. they all feel quite weak at the moment and i'm not having much luck. (I thought this might be a safety feature to prevent house fires) Many thanks for you help.

I am going to try tumble dryer fluff!

Ewmon, Beautifully explained, and a useful IR tip. Thanks very much.

Hello! I am trying to start fire from the sun using a lens (from ice, water in a plastic bag and glasses) in Norway. I haven't had success. The midwinter sun is much lower here as you can imagine. I am interested to know if the 'weaker' mid winter sun is less likely to begin a fire? and if there are physical ways around this. can I simply leave the tinder in the focus point for longer, or will it simply not get hot enough? Many thanks.