Which tool did Brian use to start the fire?

• A. A hatchet.
• B. A lighter.
• C. A magnifying glass.
• D. A matchbox.

Answer: (A)

The key idea here is how Brian makes fire with the gear he has on hand, showing how to improvise in a survival situation. Brian uses the hatchet to create sparks and ignite tinder. The steel edge of the hatchet is used to strike and produce a spark, which catches onto dry tinder he has gathered, giving him a flame. This demonstrates why the hatchet is such a vital, multipurpose tool in the wilderness and how a fire can be started without modern conveniences.

Lighters or matchboxes aren’t available to him in the moment, and a magnifying glass requires strong, steady sunlight and a lens to focus, which isn’t the method he relies on in this scene.