I've been making my own Swedish torches for a few years after having noticed them for sale–in exchange for real money–at local stores. "I have a chainsaw, I can do that," I thought. The rest is history. Now, I make cool campfires. A Swedish fire log burns so well, you couldn't have a more efficient campfire if you tried. Learn more about the distinct advantages, make your own, and go tell some campfire stories in your backyard.

Benefits of a Swedish Log Fire

There are many reasons why this is a great fire-starting method for a traditional campfire.

  • Efficient use of wood
  • Easier than log-splitting
  • Quick-start
  • Stable (won't tip over like loose logs)
  • Long-lasting than pre-split wood
  • Self-feeding
  • Self-ventilating
  • Minimal impact on soil
  • Controlled flame
  • Slow burn time
  • Considerable heat production
  • Useful cooking surface

How to Cut a Swedish Fire Torch

1. Choose a Wood Log

  • A piece that's 12-18" in diameter and roughly two to three feet in length will work well. You can get three or four Swedish fire torches out of one log of that length.
  • If you're working with green wood or damp wood, you'll have to let your finished product sit for a few months and turn to dry wood.

2. Stand the Log Upright

  • Positioning the log on a flat surface is important.
  • If it's wobbly, make a clean cut so it rests flat and is stable.
Using a MSA 120 C-BQ STIHL chainsaw to cut a Swedish Fire Torch.
Use a chainsaw to form vertical cuts in the log. Credit: Emily Fazio

3. Make Cuts

  • Use the chainsaw to cut into the end of the upright log. Think: pizza slices!
  • Each cut should be at least 6" deep.
  • You'll generate lots of sawdust; leave it inside the cuts on the log. It's a built-in layer of kindling.

4. Trim the Log to Size

  • Drop the log down onto its side.
  • Use the chainsaw to remove 8-12" of the end of the log.
  • 8-12" is a good depth for a sweet, Swedish candle. The longer the section, the deeper your vertical pizza cuts should be.
  • If the log is wet or green wood, let it dry in a sheltered location for several weeks or months.
Using a MSA 120 C-BQ STIHL chainsaw to cut a Swedish Fire Torch.
Slice the end of the log to release your first Swedish fire torch. Credit: Emily Fazio

5. Repeat

  • Stand the log upright again. You're back to a fresh start with uncut wood.
  • Make more pizza cuts.
  • Trim the Swedish fire to length.
  • Do this until you've used the entire length of the original log.

6. Start the Fire

Building fires using a Swedish fire log is easy. You'll see why it's such an efficient burn method

  • Add bits of kindling. There will be some sawdust down in the center, but you can place extra kindling, such as dry sticks, paper, or small wood chips into the center chamber, too. You can also set pieces of kindling on the center of the log.
  • Ignite the dry kindling. As the kindling burns, the air circulation will pull the flame into the center of the log. It's just a matter of time before the inside of the log catches. You won't need to add larger sticks or more logs; this alternative fire-building method is self-feeding.
  • Wider logs make a great surface for cooking.
  • Enjoy the slow burn and the mesmerizing flames. The flame will chew outward towards the bark of the log, while simultaneously burning down towards the wet ground.
  • You might call this thing a Canadian candle, but I highly recommend taking a trip to Sweden. Jag älskar Sverige. Hejdå!