HOW TO MAKE WATERPROOF MATCHES

Matches are one of the most convenient and surefire ways to start a fire. However the problem with matches is they are susceptible to moisture from water or even the humidity in the air. If your matches become damp or wet they will not lite and could put your survival at risk.

The solution to the wet matches problem is to include a vial of waterproof matches in the survival gear you use. While you could purchase waterproof matches from your favorite survival supply store, waterproof matches cost a bundle when compared to ordinary non-waterproof matches, may not always be available, and could be of suspect quality.

During a rainstorm is not the time to discover your supposedly waterproof matches will not lite. In my opinion you are far better off knowing how to make waterproof matches for yourself. In that way you can personally control the quality and quantity of this very important part of survival gear.

What are the best matches to make water proof: Although you could try to make paper matches waterproof they will be less durable and reliable than wooden matches. If you are serious about surviving you are better off purchasing at least several boxes strong wooden matches and reserve the paper ones for use at home.

I prefer wooden strike anywhere matches, then I do not need to rely upon a special striker surface to light the matches with. In survival situations the fewer working parts that can fail the better. This is backed up by many years of real world backwoods survival experience.

The process for making waterproof matches is simple and straightforward; set up a double boiler for melting the wax on your stove or even over a campfire. The usual precautions when dealing with hot surfaces and materials always applies.

Once the wax has melted dump in your matches and stir, making sure that the wax has completely covered the matches. Use pliers to remove the waterproofed matches one by one and set them aside to cool so that they are not touching one another.

And there you have it; waterproof matches. The thin layer of wax all around the match ensures the match will catch fire even if it has been immersed in water. As an added bonus the wax will help the match burn longer and hotter.

Store your home made waterproof matches in a waterproof match case and you have gone far toward ensuring you can start a fire when you need to even if your matches get wet.