Monster Matches — Fatwood Fire Starter
Monster Matches — Fatwood Fire Starter
YOUR TINDER, KINDLING, AND IGNITION SOURCE.
ALL IN ONE PLACE
comes with match sticks + blank fatwood sticks
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HOW TO USE
- Using a knife — a Buck 110 or similar fixed blade works perfectly — shave thin curls of kindling from the blank fatwood stick. Build a small pile of shavings on your fire grate or fire pit floor as a tinder bed.
- Strike the match head and carefully lay the lit match into the center of your tinder bed.
- Stack your kindling and firewood over the burning pile and let the fatwood carry the fire.
- Using the spine of your knife and a solid piece of wood or rock, baton the blank fatwood stick lengthwise into 6–8 smaller pieces. The fatwood splits cleanly along the grain.
- Arrange the thinnest pieces flat on your fire grate or fire pit floor as a tinder bed. Strike the match head and lay the lit match on top.
- Stack the remaining batoned pieces loosely over the lit match in a pyramid — leave gaps for airflow.
- Add kindling and larger wood as the flame builds.
In extreme weather, combine both methods for a guaranteed fire every time. Shave a small bed of tinder from the blank stick first — enough for the match head to lay into — then baton the remainder into pieces and build your pyramid over the top. The shaved tinder catches instantly. The batoned pieces sustain the flame. Nothing gets left to chance.
Order a Trail Pack or Full Kit. If Monster Matches don't perform in the field, contact us for a full refund. No questions. No fine print. No hassle.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need two sticks?
Why do I need two sticks?
A single thick fatwood stick generates more wood mass than its match head can sustain alone at ignition. The Two Stick Method solves this by pairing a match head stick with a plain blank — doubling the surface area and heat mass so the flame builds rather than fades. Once both sticks catch, the fatwood resin takes over and you have a sustained fire starter.
Can I use the plain stick on its own?
Can I use the plain stick on its own?
Absolutely. The plain fatwood blank is pure fatwood — one of the most resin-rich natural fire starting materials available. Use it as tinder by shaving curls off the surface, score it to catch flame faster from an external source, split it into smaller pieces, or use it as additional fuel once your fire is going.
How long do they burn?
How long do they burn?
Each Monster Match burns for approximately 8-10 minutes — more than enough time to get your fire established even in challenging conditions including wind, rain, and cold.
Are they safe indoors?
Are they safe indoors?
No — Monster Matches are designed for outdoor use only. They produce an open flame and should never be used indoors, in enclosed spaces, or near flammable materials. Always follow basic fire safety practices.
What's your return policy?
What's your return policy?
We stand behind every order with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. If you are not happy with your purchase for any reason contact us at support@burmaresearch.com within 30 days of delivery. Returns are accepted for unopened unused product only.