Dakota Fire Hole
If you want to take full advantage of a fire and mother nature, one of the best fires to create out in the wild is a Dakota Fire Hole (also known as a Dakota Fire Pit.) These holes work very well for a fire because it takes advantage of the updraft.
The following steps are how to make a Dakota Fire Hole.
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Dig 2 holes in the ground about 8-10 inches apart and 10-12 inches deep.
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On the side closest to the wind direction, punch one large connecting hole for ventilation.
If you are making this during the winter or just experienced rainfall, you can use wet green logs for the base of your fire.
The Dakota fire hole is an appreciated technique in wilderness survival because it burns firewood more efficiently and it creates hotter fires with less wood. In some areas, scavenging for firewood is exactly that, scavenging. Using the least amount of energy is key in the wild, this fire allows you to attend to your other survival needs, rather than having to find firewood for a long time. Another advantage of this technique is that is just like a stove. The ground provides a suitable platform to cook over. Some other positives about this fire technique are, it’s practically an underground fireplace. If you want to conceal your fire or practice leave no trace this is will help.
3 comments
Jamie G Whitaker
I have used many techniques to fire building. This is one of my favorites when not it a wet environment. I have used a technique that uses clay, sand and ash after I build up my base. Then mix and pat the mixture to the funnel walls. True, it takes time to accomplish. But if you are at a base camp. It will create a very hot fire and it’s easier to cook with and direct the heat! Let the wind push the heat from the other hole.
Jason Hill
i would like to learn how to make a fire To survive of stranded in the woods
hubbar
madeing nifes old school