Whitfield WP-2 help needed

I have used a propane or mapp torch several times on the Whit, with good results. Another idea is to buy the fireplace starters made of paraffin and wood fibers. They look a bit like a macaroon or the shape of a small scoop of mashed potatoes. I cut them in thirds or in half. They light easily and stay lit long enough to get the fire going, if a person wants to avoid the torch. More expensive than a torch, but less than starter gel.

 

The big reason the factories have chosen to pimp the starter jells and other little starters is LIABILITY.
They don't want to deal with all the smack trash called down when somebody forgets to turn on the draft fan and they skunk up their living room too, eeeeeeeeeww

The factories just gotta go the safest easiest route possible when having folks deal with fire.

Hence the switch to the auto ignition systems.