Practice is everything. I made a point of starting up my wood stove fires for years with flint-and-steel... once acquired, you don't lose the skill. Don't let anyone fool you though, it's mostly about char and tinder, less about spark.<br><br>I've gotten fire with a fire drill twice. From my limited experience, the wood has to be very dry, softer is better, and the shape of the socket is important- you need to let some air in there with a small groove, or do it close to the edge.<br><br>Sounds like you need an example of a fire piston just to complete your collection.... if you need another excuse. :-)