Hi Ken, making a bow-drill and subsequent fire isn't too difficult but it is a time-consuming process and factors such as humidity and strong wind can make a big difference. It is a great skill to learn in the event you end up in a 'gear-less' situation. I made many fires with a homemade bowdrill to imprint the skill but would prefer a rapid and more reliable method if possible. Choosing a wood that is the right density is pretty critical to get a good hot coal, hardwoods don't work well but woods like Ash are good. Once you get over the frustration of the spindle popping out and get a knack for estimating how much time to continue working the drill after smoke appears, then learn to drop the coal into your tinder without it blowing away it gets easy and somewhat reliable. Larry Dean Olsen's book on survival gives a great lesson on bow drills and many other primitive skills.