Chimney starter

[1][2][3] The tube may also be made of combustible material designed to resist burning long enough for the coals to ignite.

A grate or mesh to hold charcoal is placed horizontally inside the cylinder about 3" (8 cm) from the bottom; this is sometimes conical.

[10][11] Chimney starters essentially work by increasing the draft, supplying more oxygen to the coals.

The cone also protected the charcoal from the wind, and helped direct the smoke away from users.

Dry newspaper is a popular and affordable chimney start but can cause increased smoke output during the process.