A “bearing block” is any device that is used to bear down on the top end of a spindle to facilitate the stability and pressure of the spindle as it is spun using a bow or strap. There is usually an indentation that keeps the tip of the spindle in place. The best feature of a bearing block is that it is hard and durable while at the same time being as friction free as possible.

As illustrated in the photo some rocks have a natural indentation that will stabilize the rotation of the spindle while in use. Rocks of this nature are often found by lakes, streams, and seashore. Other rocks may have angular crevasses that can be used as well. The material of the rock may vary in surface from smooth like agates to gritty like sandstone but most often has the advantage of not transferring heat to your hand.

For more information regarding bearing blocks in general check out my post “Bow And Spindle Bearing Blocks”

As most firecrafters will attest, repeated use of a spindle will cause it to shorten with each use until it becomes a stub making it more difficult to use because it is prone to flip out of the hearthboard socket while bowing. Using a longer spindle gives less lateral pressure to the spindle, thus making it more stable and easier to hold in place when using a bearing block. Another problem is that spindles can get “polished” in a spot that causes slippage by the bow’s cord. A longer spindle offers more surface for the cord to operate and the cord can be raised or lowered on the spindle for better traction. I also recommend operating the bow parallel to the hearthboard as the “V” notch on the edge can wear out a bit allowing the spindle to slip out of the socket more easily when perpendicular bowing is employed.

A longer bow allows for fewer strokes because there are more spindle rotations per stroke. This translates into longer moments of friction heating the hearthboard and the sustained heat creates char more quickly wherein an ember is created.

There is a great satisfaction when creating fire using a bow and spindle. I remember the glow of my first successful ember emerging from the smoldering pile of char. I still remain amazed each time at this accomplishment. Using a longer spindle and bow can get you there more quickly and with less effort.

A “bearing block” is any device that is used to bear down on the top end of a spindle to facilitate the stability and pressure of the spindle as it is spun using a bow or strap. There is usually an indentation that keeps the tip of the spindle in place. The best feature of a bearing block is that it is hard and durable while at the same time being as friction free as possible. Sometimes folks will add a little grease, fat, or wax to the socket to optimize it’s performance.

Natural sockets might be found in rocks, shells, and bones. Natural materials for crafting bearing blocks might include wood, stone, and antlers. It is possible to use both halves of a split branch for fire by friction with one half used for the hearth board while the other half is used as the bearing block. I prefer using the same wood for both the spindle and hearthboard but it is best to use a more durable material for the bearing block to minimize friction on the top end of the spindle.

In modern times there are a number of “trash” items that can be used in an emergency or on a temporary basis such as bottle caps, pipe caps, concave wine bottle bottoms and such. More durable bearing blocks have been made using machine bearings, embedded coins, or anything that forms a socket shape that will not get too hot or disintegrate during the bowing process. Some knife manufacturers have designed sockets in their handles for emergency use. I have used a circle feature in the blade on one of my folding knives.

In the end, there are a variety of items that can be used as a bearing block and I would suggest that those who practice firecraft should experiment with different things to become aware of strengths and weaknesses of materials and learn how to improvise when needed. What items have you used for bearing blocks?

After breakfast we began discussing survival basics such as the rule of 3s and survival priorities. Then we discussed edible plants, finding direction and shelters. Of course, we ended up with firecraft and we discussed the fire making categories of friction, percussion, optical and electrical. I used a broken headlamp to start a fire by the solar method. Then I showed how to use fine steel wool with a 9 volt battery to start a fire and everyone had a chance to try it for themselves. Then I showed how to use steel wool instead of charcloth to catch a spark using flint and steel, and in the end I demonstrated fire by friction using the bow and spindle method.

Recently I acquired some basswood and it is now my new best friend for fire by friction. In the last couple of weeks I’ve been able to guide several folks in accomplishing their first successful fire by friction by bow and spindle. It is such a delight to see the joy of their success. Such was the case this morning where 4 guys made their first bow and spindle fires and a young lad made his first flint and steel fire.

The program director, Matthew McNiel showed me a fire piston that he had made out of inexpensive hardware, so now it’s on my “to-do” list to accomplish. As we concluded our time, Matthew began to envision next year’s programs in which I may be able to participate. It was a great day with prospects of a great future.

The Pow Wow was sponsored by the Blue Ridge Intertribal Pow Wow Association founded in 2005 by Mabel Benjamin and serves as an educational resource on Native American history and culture in western North Carolina and neighboring communities.

Traditionally local schools are invited to attend on Friday mornings to learn about the Indian culture with song, dance, crafts, demonstrations and displays. I was able to demonstrate the bow and spindle method of fire making which was no small feat as compared to modern methods. Both children and adults gathered around my booth as I explained the elements and process. It seems that each time I make fire I learn more about the materials that I use and ways to encourage the coal to come about. After several tries I had victory.

As the crowd wandered over to the dance area, a young Boy Scout stayed behind to get some hands-on experience, so we worked together to develop the proper stance and method. There’s no substitute for practice to develop a good rhythm and understanding of speed and pressure.

The Pow Wow continues today. Check http://www.blueridgepowwows.org/powwow-schedule.html for details.