Swedish torch (log candle)

A thick log normally burns poorly because air cannot reach the inside. The lengthwise cuts change that: they form narrow channels through which the fire gets air. Hot gases rise in the middle, and fresh air flows in from below through the slots. This is called the chimney effect or draught.

Because the slots reach only about two thirds to three quarters of the height, the lower part stays in one piece and supports the log. The fire slowly eats its way from the top downwards. A glowing surface forms on top, which is suitable as a small cooking spot for a single pot.

The wood must be dry and seasoned. Freshly cut or damp wood hisses, smokes and hardly burns. The cut faces should be as flat as possible so that the log stands securely and a pot sits level on top. Saw the slots crosswise from the top, but never all the way down – otherwise the log falls apart as it burns.

To light it, push tinder and fine shavings into the centre and the upper slots and light them at the top. It takes quite a while until the slots themselves are burning – patience matters more here than more tinder. Instead of saw cuts, you can also split the log into quarters, stand them back together with small spacers and bind them with wire.

The Swedish torch is mainly a fire for permitted fire sites, gardens and events. It needs no tending, gives light and a little warmth and offers a small cooking spot. On a solid base it can also work in snow.

In the wilderness it makes less sense. It needs a saw and a thick, dry log, ties up a lot of wood and usually does not burn completely to ash – charred remains are left behind that do not fit the idea of leaving no trace. It is unsuitable in wind and dry conditions, on soft or sloping ground, on meadows and on wooden decks. And it can hardly be regulated: once it burns, it burns for a long time.

The log can tip or fall apart as it burns down. Set it up only on level, fireproof ground such as stone, gravel or bare soil, with plenty of distance from buildings, trees and plants. Keep your distance and place pots carefully. As soon as the log becomes unstable, no more pots go on it. Children stay outside a clearly marked area.

Sawing has risks too. Chainsaws belong only in trained hands with protective equipment. With a hand saw, secure the log firmly so it does not roll away. Never use petrol, spirit or other liquids to light it – the vapours can ignite explosively.

A thick log keeps glowing inside for a very long time, even when nothing can be seen on the outside. Extinguish it with plenty of water, split the remains and extinguish again until everything is cold. And above all: check the local rules and the current wildfire danger beforehand.

The Swedish torch has many names: Swedish fire log, Finnish candle or log candle. In Scandinavia and Central Europe it is known mainly as a garden and event fire, for example on winter nights.

As a cooking spot it is practical for a single pot but does not replace a stove. If you want to cook regularly, a stove or a keyhole fire at an existing fire site usually serves you better.