Ultimate Charcoal Guide: Learn How Charcoal is Made and What’s Really in Your Fuel

How charcoal is made
On a basic level, charcoal is produced...

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Ahoy there! As someone who's been prepping for over a decade, I can't stress enough the importance of understanding the basics like the back of your hand. This comprehensive guide to charcoal is a gem and it's got me thinking about the applications in a survivalist context.

In a pinch, charcoal can be more than just a BBQ fuel. It can serve as a potent water purifier and even as an emergency heat source. On our 40-foot sailboat, we've got a small grill that can utilize charcoal. Keeping a supply on board is a no-brainer, given it's lightweight, easy to store, and has a long shelf-life. Plus, it's a versatile resource in emergency situations.

I appreciate the section on creating your own charcoal. It's always useful to know how to make essentials from scratch. In a survival situation, knowing how to create your own fuel source can make all the difference.

One thing I'd like to add is the importance of storing charcoal properly. It's hygroscopic, which means it can absorb moisture from the surrounding air. If it's not stored in a dry and airtight container, it can lose its effectiveness.

Finally, I'd encourage anyone reading this to practice making charcoal at home. It's one thing to read about it, but another to do it. As with all things survival, practice makes perfect.

Thanks for the fantastic read! Stay prepared and keep sailing.

As an avid boater and survivalist who has to frequently deal with the unpredictability of nature, I found this article on charcoal absolutely fascinating. I have to say, understanding the intricacies of something as seemingly simple as charcoal has given me a new perspective on my own survival tactics.

In the context of my own life, having a good knowledge of the different types of charcoal and how to make them could prove invaluable. I wouldn't be surprised if this becomes a useful skill in a survival situation, especially if stranded on a deserted island or in an emergency bug-out scenario.

I appreciate the detailed comparison between lump charcoal and charcoal briquettes. As a liveaboard sailor, space is at a premium, so lump charcoal has always been my go-to due to its compactness and the fact that it doesn't contain any additives.

Your mention of different types of wood got me thinking about my local environment here in Florida. We have an abundance of oak, which seems like it would make excellent charcoal. I might even give making my own charcoal a shot one of these days. I can already imagine it: the smell of the burning oak, the satisfaction of using self-made charcoal, and the taste of the grilled fish caught fresh from the sea.

I'd also add, for the boaters and sailors out there, that proper storage of charcoal on a vessel is crucial. It should be kept in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent it from absorbing moisture, which as the article mentions, can affect its performance.

Thank you for this enlightening piece. I'm sure it will help many grill enthusiasts and survivalists alike to better understand and appreciate the humble charcoal. Keep these informative posts coming!