A fire piston is a simple device used to create fire by compressing air. It consists of a cylinder with a tightly fitting piston that, when quickly pushed down, compresses the air inside. This rapid compression raises the temperature, igniting a small piece of tinder, often made from materials like char cloth or fungus.
Fire pistons have been used for centuries, especially in various indigenous cultures. They are a fascinating example of how people harnessed basic physics to create fire without matches or modern tools. Today, they are appreciated by survivalists and outdoor enthusiasts for their efficiency and historical significance.