http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Char_cloth "Char cloth (also called charpaper) is linen or cotton cloth that has been combusted in the absence of oxygen. It is easily ignited by even the weakest of sparks." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fire_piston
"A fire piston, which in the Philippines is known as a sumpak,[1] is a device of ancient origin which is used to kindle fire. It uses the principle of the heating of a gas (in this case air) by its rapid (adiabatic) compression to ignite a piece of tinder, which is then used to set light to kindling."
I've been researching old schools of craft/survival and man there are some real gems out there. When the Apocalypse comes, I hope I'm ready.
/dons tin foil hat