As someone who’s spent over a decade guiding trips and writing about the outdoors, I’ve always been fascinated by the unexpected resources available in a survival situation. One item that consistently surprises people with its versatility is Crisco shortening. Beyond baking, understanding Crisco shortening survival uses can be a game-changer, especially when paired with knowledge of creating reliable fire starters. This article will delve into the surprising ways Crisco can aid in wilderness survival, and provide detailed instructions for crafting several effective homemade fire starters, including vaseline cotton ball fire starters and utilizing simple toilet paper rolls. We’ll even touch on using cast iron as a fire starter in a pinch.
Why Crisco Shortening? The Unexpected Survival Tool
You might be wondering why I’m talking about a kitchen staple in a survival context. Crisco, being 100% vegetable shortening, is almost entirely fat. Fat is energy. And in a survival scenario, energy is paramount. But its uses extend far beyond caloric intake. Here’s a breakdown of why Crisco is a surprisingly valuable addition to your survival kit:
- High Calorie Density: Approximately 3,600 calories per cup. This is significantly higher than many other readily available food sources.
- Waterproofing: Crisco can be used to waterproof leather boots, protect exposed skin from windburn, and even help preserve tinder.
- Lubrication: It can lubricate zippers, moving parts on tools, or even help start a friction fire (more on that later).
- Fire Tinder Enhancement: This is where Crisco really shines. It dramatically improves the flammability of natural tinder and is a key ingredient in many homemade fire starters.
While not a replacement for dedicated survival gear, a small container of Crisco can significantly increase your chances of success in a pinch. Remember to store it in a leak-proof container!
Building Reliable Fire Starters: Your First Line of Defense
Fire is arguably the most important element of survival. It provides warmth, cooks food, purifies water, offers psychological comfort, and can signal for help. Having a reliable method for starting a fire, even in adverse conditions, is crucial. That’s where homemade fire starters come in. Commercial fire starters are great, but knowing how to create your own from readily available materials is a valuable skill. Here are a few of my favorites:
Vaseline Cotton Ball Fire Starters: The Classic
These are incredibly simple to make and remarkably effective. The petroleum jelly in vaseline acts as a fuel source, while the cotton balls provide a readily ignitable wick. I’ve used vaseline cotton ball fire starters countless times in damp conditions with great success.
- Materials: Petroleum jelly (Vaseline), cotton balls.
- Instructions: Thoroughly coat each cotton ball with Vaseline. Ensure the entire cotton ball is saturated, but not dripping.
- Storage: Store in a waterproof container, such as a small zip-lock bag or a repurposed pill bottle.
Pro Tip: Use unscented Vaseline. The added fragrances in scented varieties can sometimes hinder ignition.
Toilet Paper Roll Fire Starters: Utilizing What You Have
Don’t underestimate the power of a humble toilet paper roll! These are fantastic for utilizing dryer lint, wax shavings, or even Crisco itself. They’re lightweight, compact, and readily available (especially if you’re practicing good backcountry hygiene – Leave No Trace principles are essential!).
- Materials: Toilet paper rolls, dryer lint (or wax shavings, or Crisco), optional: egg carton.
- Instructions (Dryer Lint): Stuff the toilet paper roll tightly with dryer lint.
- Instructions (Wax Shavings): Melt wax (candle wax works well) and pour it into the toilet paper roll, allowing it to solidify.
- Instructions (Crisco): Press Crisco firmly into the toilet paper roll, ensuring it’s packed tightly.
- Storage: Store in a waterproof bag. An egg carton can help keep them organized and protected.
Crisco-Coated Natural Tinder: Boosting Nature's Gifts
Even without dedicated materials, you can significantly improve the flammability of natural tinder using Crisco. Pine needles, birch bark, and dry grass can all be coated with a thin layer of Crisco to help them catch a spark. This is particularly useful in damp environments.
- Materials: Crisco shortening, natural tinder (pine needles, birch bark, dry grass).
- Instructions: Apply a thin, even coating of Crisco to the tinder. Avoid using too much, as it can smother the flame.
- Storage: Prepare this tinder immediately before attempting to start a fire.
Cast Iron as a Fire Starter: A Wilderness Hack
This is a less common technique, but one I’ve found incredibly useful when carrying a cast iron skillet or Dutch oven. Cast iron fire starter capabilities come from the fact that you can strike a ferro rod against the carbon steel, creating sparks. It requires practice, but it’s a reliable method when other options are limited.
- Technique: Hold the ferro rod close to the cast iron and strike downwards, aiming the sparks towards your tinder.
- Considerations: The surface of the cast iron needs to be relatively clean and dry for this to work effectively.
Crisco Shortening Beyond Fire: Expanding Survival Applications
Let’s revisit those Crisco shortening survival uses. Beyond fire starting, here’s how it can help you in a prolonged survival situation:
- Emergency Food Source: While not palatable on its own, Crisco provides a concentrated source of calories.
- Skin Protection: Apply a thin layer to exposed skin to protect against windburn and chapping.
- Gear Maintenance: Lubricate zippers, buckles, and other moving parts on your gear.
- Waterproofing: Rub Crisco onto leather boots to help repel water.
- Friction Fire Assistance: A small amount of Crisco can be used to lubricate the spindle in a bow drill or hand drill, reducing friction and making it easier to generate an ember. (REI Expert Advice on Friction Fire)
Important Considerations & Safety Precautions
While Crisco is a valuable survival resource, it’s important to use it responsibly and safely:
- Storage: Always store Crisco in a leak-proof container to prevent contamination of your gear.
- Quantity: A small amount goes a long way. A 4-ounce container is usually sufficient for a weekend trip.
- Animal Attraction: Be aware that the smell of Crisco can attract animals. Store it securely and practice proper food storage techniques. (USDA Forest Service Bear Safety)
- Fire Safety: Always practice safe fire building techniques. Clear a 10-foot radius around your fire pit and have water readily available.
Final Thoughts: Preparation is Key
Understanding Crisco shortening survival uses and mastering the art of homemade fire starters are valuable skills for any outdoor enthusiast. However, remember that these are supplemental tools. Always prioritize carrying a well-stocked survival kit, including a reliable fire starter, a knife, a first-aid kit, and a map and compass. Practice these skills before you need them, and always be prepared for the unexpected. I encourage you to explore other survival skills – check out resources like the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics for more information on responsible outdoor practices and preparedness. And remember, the best survival situation is one you avoid through careful planning and preparation. Consider taking a wilderness first aid course to further enhance your skills – you can find courses through organizations like the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS).