Over the years I’ve heard of firecrafters trying to use an electric drill to turn a spindle to create fire-by-friction. I have tried this in the past unsuccessfully until now. This of course is a proof-of-concept method that would practically only be performed in a domestic setting.

I prepared the spindle by carving a rounded blunt end for the hearthoard and at the other end I cut a 3/4″ long dowel shape just small enough to fit the drill chuck.

What enabled my success is applying the same techniques used with a bow. A long spindle enables better control. Developing proper char requires a moderate speed. A fast speed will burn or blacken the char which means that it is spent and unable to sustain an ember. A dark coffee ground color, not black, is your goal.

Combined with a moderate speed is a downward pressure to enhance friction. The goal is to build a small pile of char where heat can build. Once smoke appears, the pressure and speed needs to be sustained a little longer to make sure that the char is ignited within, then the spindle can be removed to confirm that the smoke continues to emerge from the pile.

I have found that some woods used for hearthboards might heat fast but can cool fast just as easily so a gentle waving of your hand over the coal can allow the internal temperature to increase without cooling it out.

This method is not really practical but any time that a fire can be achieved by a firecrafter, it is a rewarding experience and adds another skill in the craft.