In this class we will spend 2 days concentrating on only the skill of Fire making. We will teach both Primitive and Modern methods of Fire making in a progression that prioritizes Fire as a Survival tool. Even if you have no experience in more complicated methods we can teach you to become successful and confident when you enter the woods.

2025 Date: March 15th thru 16th

Class Outline will Include:

• Material Selection for Successful Fire making
• Basics of the Physics and Chemistry involved in Fire making
• Properly processing materials for different Ignition methods
• Proper Fire Lays for different situations
• Hand Drill fire making (direct from landscape)
• Bow Drill Fire making (direct from landscape)
• Flint and Steel Fire making and what it is still relevant for everyday use.
• Solar Ignition and choosing the correct lens.
• Proper use of the  Ferro-cerium Rod and tricks for the best success
• The versatility of the Bic Lighter and it’s components 
• Kit Based Items that can extend flame in an emergency.

Kit Required:

• Knife 
• Folding saw
• Pocket knife or SAK
• 2 Bic Lighters
• 1 roll 1” Duct Tape
• 2 Plastic Tent Stakes (Extra)
• 100’ #36 Bank line
• Old cotton T Shirt or cotton scrap 3’x3’
• Camp Gear for one night (Tent/Hammock etc)
• Clothing for conditions and Season
• Poncho
• Stainless Water bottle and Nesting Cup
• Notebook and Pencils
• Medication (prescription only)
• Food and Snacks
• Camp Stove (ISO type)

Meeting Location - 

Cabin Rentals - 

Age Requirements

• You must be 16 yrs or older to attend this class. Any student under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult registered with that class.
  

If your child is left in camp repeatedly or left alone to be cared for by staff, you may be asked to leave the class.

If you bring a minor that is not your child, you must have a signed  filled out by that child's parent(s) or legal guardian. Reference your Confirmation email for this document.

Port-a-Pots are located approximately 400 yards from the base camp near the parking area.

Water will be available from jugs located in Base Camp. We continually check the water supply to make sure it is readily available.

We do not allow anyone to remain at camp without an instructor present

If you suffer from a medical condition that requires medication, please bring your prescribed medicines with you. If you undergo surgery or a hospital stay within 30 days of the class, DO NOT attempt this course.

Cancellation Policy - 

About our School:

• Fully Insured
• Red Cross Certified Training Facility
• EMT’s and Paramedic’s on Staff
• AED on Location 
• Epinephrine on Location
• Instructors are CPR and Wilderness First Aid Red Cross Certified 
• Low Student to Instructor to create a Pedagogy learning environment. 
• Most Instructors either former Military, EMS, or LE
• Lead Instructor is NASAR Advanced Search and Rescue Certified 
• Dave Canterbury is Certified Expert Trapper by Fur Takers of America and a Certified Intermediate Herbalist by the Herbal Academy International School of Herbal Arts and Sciences
• All Instructors are equipped and licensed in HAM radio as well as PLB SAT comes for emergency communications away from classroom area.
• Training area is over 4500 Forested Acres 

Disclaimer:
Please make sure you take all gear with you at the end of the class. If gear is left behind, we will not be able to ship it to you, and will be considered abandoned. 

Due to property insurance restrictions: There will be no camping on the school property prior to the start of the class or after the classes conclude.

Each class is instructed by highly trained and professional outdoor/wilderness instructors. Each instructor teaches the Pathfinder School system and is authorized by Dave Canterbury. Instructors, including Dave Canterbury, can vary class to class.