the benefits of using a nail as a fuse

[beastmonkey]

can someone please give me the benefits of using a nail or paperclip etc in a fuse box? why not buy a fuse they aren't that expensive.

[Teleph0ne]

No benefit, cost my best friend his life

[buildersmate]

The benefit is that the 'nail fuse' is most unlikely to break, thereby avoiding the inconvenience of ever finding to find the torch in the dark after the above scenario has occurred.
I could follow up with a long list of disadvantages, but you didn't ask.

[woodchopper]

A good way to burn your house down.

[beastmonkey]

well I think Teleph0ne has highlighted the main danger, that is why i wondered what the benefit could possibly be that people would risk it.

[buildersmate]

You obviously didn't manage to read past the first answer, then.

[beastmonkey]

well buildersmate, i'm sorry if you have taken offence at what I wrote, and the tone of your response does well suggest that, but I don't really see how getting rid of the inconvenience of looking for a torch, as a benefit for risking your life.

[buildersmate]

No problem - both my answers were 'comedy answers'. But you seemed to imply there were no answers to your question.
I can't think of a good reason why one would not use a proper fuse either.

[another-view]

Advantages: save 3p
Disadvantages: death

[buildersmate]

Another comedian