| Getting Started |
| Preparing a working bowdrill set should be approached as a work of art. The more I try to rush the production of any of the components, the more apt I am to fail. So, don't take shortcuts and don't settle for mediocrity. You will understand later why I am stressing this now. If you are proud of your work, then it's time we get started with the second phase. Below is a checklist of things to keep in mind as we progress. |
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| Checklist |
| 1) the bow should remain parallel to the ground at all times 2) if you are right-handed, your right hand is holding the bow at the end with the clove hitch 3) the right thigh should always remain straight up and down 4) the chest should be resting comfortably on the other thigh 5) the left arm is wrapped around the left leg 6) the wrist bone is pressed firmly against the shinbone 7) use the entire length of the bow 8) the ball joint of the left foot is placed across the fireboard next to the drill within an inch of the notch 9) the right hand will brush against the right thigh with each full length stroke of the bow 10) don't do anything until you feel balanced, comfortable and relaxed in your stance. |
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| One of the most common mistakes made by beginners is allowing the hand holding the socket to become unstable by moving it away from the shinbone. Once you start moving the drill you are going to want to have these two body parts become one solid unit. |
| Bowdrill firestarting is very tiring. Don't tire yourself out sooner by getting into a poor stance. Keep your thigh straight so that you aren't using unneccessary muscles maintaining your balance. Also, notice the separation between the legs. |
| This picture shows three important aspects: the ball joint ahead of the notch on the board; closeness of the foot to the notch; and, the opening of the notch being toward you (more about that later) |
| Next: holding the bow |
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