Splitting Matches?

[AdventureDoc]

Wooden matches can be cut with a razorblade or other very sharp item, vertically, to make more matches.

Is this a good way of making your matches last longer...making one into 2, or three?

How many times can you split one match, and still have usable sections?

[Nativedude]

Wooden matches can be cut with a razorblade or other very sharp item, vertically, to make more matches. . . .Is this a good way of making your matches last longer...making one into 2, or three? . . .How many times can you split one match, and still have usable sections?

Splitting a match in half is the most you can do and still have 2 usable igniter's. Splitting them any more than that does not allow for enough heat to ignite the head of the match. I split wooden matches by hand (no razor blade), they split just fine.

You can also split paper matches. One side of the head will be a little bigger than the other, but they can still both be used. . .with prudence!

[AdventureDoc]

I posted this because I just heard a myth of a guy who knew a guy who could split the wooden match EIGHT times, and all were usable.

I tried and could not get three section that were usable. My ignition source/red stuff would crack and flake off, leaving me with just sticks.

It sounded like a load, but I wanted to make sure there isn't some special technique. Thanks!

[Sarge47]

Wooden matches can be cut with a razorblade or other very sharp item, vertically, to make more matches.

Is this a good way of making your matches last longer...making one into 2, or three?

How many times can you split one match, and still have usable sections?

In one of my books, don't remember where for sure, it's written that convicts in prison were able to split one match into 16, I think it was, that would light. My thinking is just buy up a whole bunch in the 1st place and save the energy. I recently bought 6 boxes of 250 per box of "strike-anywhere" matches for $1.29 a box. With my matches, butane lighter, and different flint/steel methods I needn't worry about splitting matches...or hairs either.

[crashdive123]

Ok, just tried this. Could not get 3 working matches. I agree with Sarge. Matches are cheap ... bring plenty, mini bic, flint & steel combos...

[Sam]

Cody Lundin mentions match splitting in his books. He tells of WWII POWs splitting matches six times.

[Sarge47]

Cody Lundin mentions match splitting in his books. He tells of WWII POWs splitting matches six times.

That was it! 6 times, not 16 times! I stand corrected, thank you Sam!

[Rick]

Sam - I think you are correct about Cody's reference and I'm sure those were "strike anywhere" given the time frame. Given their ingenuity and some of the things I've seen created in those conditions, I could believe they created 6 workable sections. Not something you or I might achieve, however.

Like, Sarge et. al., seldom a reason not to have enough matches and backups.

[sh4d0wm4573ri7]

I dont use matches enough to warrent the need start most my fires with flint n steel or fire piston matches are on standby

[flandersander]

i use a tiger torch. does that count as a match?

[crashdive123]

I wonder if the matches referenced in the book were made any differently than what is available today. A better quality product might be easier to split.

[Assassin Pilot]

But now they make them as small and lightweight as possible. Back then matches were a pretty common sight so they were probably a lot thicker and larger. It's like soda cans, they used to be very thick but are now paper thin.

[Rick]

I've been perusing the Google looking for info on this and the best I can come up with is a 2 for 1 split. It looks like the matches came from the Red Cross parcels but that's about the best I can do.

[dilligaf2u2]

I carry a book of MRE matches in my wallet. Every year or so I change them out.

I have(Oh so long ago) taken MRE matches and split them to make mine last longer. When you have no time and no resupply for awhile. You strech out what you have.

Don

[Sarge47]

(LATINO ACCENT)WE DON' NEED NO STINKING MATCHES! In my humble opinion matches should rarely be used, if at all. They should be kept in reserve untill your flint rod wears out!