Great video. My dad passed away and I'm finding things that he used for survival to take care of us and I'm trying to learn more by myself now. A little knowledge is better than none i guess.
Thank you for this review! Years ago I used a firestarter like your military issue one. But recently, my "camping" trips are in an off-grid cabin with a wood stove. I thought I was prepared with several lighters and those fireplace starters. But during my last trip up to the cabin, it was 20 degrees when I arrived and I had a rough time getting the fire started. That's when I realized I wasn't as prepared as I thought I was. THANK YOU for showing the items and making comments about fine motor skills. As I am getting older, I am going to need one of the larger ones - as my grip isn't what it used to be. Thank you so much for this review.
Appreciated you mentioned deteriorating motor skills when using these things and you're right about the magnesium, it can help a lot in wet and windy conditions especially if you have a little tape (any kind) to collect the shavings on to, even a band aid will do. Great stuff!!
jelkel25 I designed my fire kit based on redundancy. I always have magnesium on my kit. For those who think all you need is a Bick lighter, Have you ever tried to light a cig lighter when is 30 below and windy?
F Furtado Yes, I have tried to light fires at 30/40 below. I learnt to have two Clippers in my pocket if there's going to be any sort of jazzy weather though you are correct, sometimes even that won't work. A few extra tricks in the fire kit usually helps, petroleum jelly, cotton balls, a small spray bottle of surgical spirit (Good rubbing alcohol), hexi blocks or yesterday's newspaper with a fire steel. I'd rather have the odd extra on me than find things getting desperate.
Great review - very helpful. One word of advice - there are cheap Chinese magnesium blocks out there that do not burn. The magnesium flakes greatly enhance a fire steel and burn in the rain. but if you buy one that is not a Doan test it first. If the magnesium flakes don't burn throw it away.
I have the firesteel which is issued to the Swedish military which have the tool, combination whistle and striker together on a lanyard. I like it because of the color orange which makes it easy to find.
I agree with everything you have stated in this video. I've had two Blast Match's fail on me. On one of them the plastic holding the rod broke and the other the striker broke off. It would be a great fire starter if someone would re-engineer it out of aluminum instead of the fragile plastic. Bought A Gob-Spark and a Fire steel 4.0 w/magnesium rod. Both are great fire starting tools. They now have a place in my survival kit.
Based on your review I bought 3 of the Gobspark Armageddon fire starters and I am very pleased! I've tried many ferrocerium rods over the years and didn't expect what this delivered. Sparks went from chest high all the way to my floor! I've never seen this before! The striker has the sharpest edges I've seen and the case holds the Gobstricker securely. Yes you can use this with gloves or trembling hands. quality is superb. I tried it on my stairs and a spark went down about 5 or 6 feet! Never seen that before! Cannot practice on any of my floors or stairs with carpet. My wife has seen me strike many fire rods but she said none have had the sparks the firesteel.com rod delivered. WOW! What a survival treasure.
I would like to add if I may.......regardless of which fire steel one chooses to carry or use, one needs to "practice", and get familiar with what it takes to actually get a fire started with it. One needs to be skilled in starting a fire, and not just think your going to use it when your in that moment of need. That's a disaster waiting to happen. The "mag-slab" requires a lot of practice more than the other's shown in this video......but, none the less, a good fire starter "if" you familiarize yourself with how it works. Anyway, that's my two cents. Remember guys, get out there and PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE with your fire steels, now is the time to hone your skills, NOT when you find yourself in a real life situation......you may not have the time to "figure it out." Just think about that. Stephen, Ohio
BuckeyeBushcraft L. Best comment!!! First time I tried to light a fire using a fire steel, I got lots of blisters on my hands ,but couldn't ignite the tinder..... actually I was using "dry" leaves, and grass, that I gathered from the ground, believing they were really dry and ready to use as a good tinder! Then, after watching some videos on UA-cam, I've learned how to collect dry tinder from the trees, pine needles, stuff hanging from the branches, barks, dried bamboo fibers, etc... No matter how good and fancy your equipment is, you gotta try it before going to the woods, and first of all, learn how to make your " dry tinder nest"!!! Good luck to all of you!
I work with a few guys and when I went camping with one of them he was surprised I always use a ferro rod, then we were talking about it at work one day and another coworker said 'i figured I'd learn how to use it when I have to" I laughed. Its really not hard to get a fire going with one if you know what you're doing. Only difference is prep to me. I usually use a 1/2" one since you can get a much bigger spark off the longer rod. but no difference with smallers. I found the biggest difference is what you use to strike. The strikers that come with are hard since its all in your fingers, if you use the spine of a knife you can use your whole hand so its easier. Either way after getting some shavings of tinder I can get a fire going after a few strikes. I always laugh when i see people holding a rod away and launching sparks at their tinder.
+BuckeyeBushcraft L. Amen. Practice is absolutely the key. So many people spend a great deal of money and time looking for the best fire starter out there trying to find a great knife that will be a great striker and a Ferro rod that will strike a ton of sparks and the best tinder that will take the spark and ignite and all of that is great BUT the BEST fire starter, The only fire starter you really need to invest in is YOU. The person. If you don't have the experience and the practice and the muscle memory down you will have a hell of a time getting the ferro, Tinder, Scraper to work. If you do have the practice and experience then you can take some of the crappiest equipment out there and still get it to work. Of course there are exception to that where you will find natural material may end up working better than the man made equipment but again that is only if you have invested in yourself enough to practice.
My blast match broke after 2 yeas of having it, so I made it into a key chain ferro rod. It still works amazingly. The magnesium/flint striker I love. It takes more work than most fire starters but is more reliable then most out there. I always say 2 ways to make fire, and one should be the magnesium bar. The 5" x 1/2" is always a favorite of mine, it has yet to let me down. The other's I have very little experience with. I have used some of them but not enough to say anything about them.
That goes for anything. The best camera is the one you have when you need to take a picture. The best EDC tool is the one you have when you need to use it.
@doubledrats235 so true. The best Axe is the only one with you. The best computer is the only one you have. The best wristwatch is the one on your wrist.
I just bought UCO Titan Fire Striker at Cabelas Canada 🇨🇦,,can't wait to try it,I also like Couglands Ferro Rods and Magnesium slabs...So much fun to practice to use it with cheapest Mora Companion Carbon steel,,,Yes i had to sharpen the spine but now is AWESOME...Sparks like crazy and it will make a fire 🔥...
I just bought a camp firestarter at the dollar store for $3 and it works great.They're also selling a mini foldable shovel with a pick for $4 and its compact and very durable.
A clipper lighter. Or a Zippo lighter with extra flints in the bottom. You can replace the cotton with hemp or other firestarter. Foolproof and one handed also.
I do this, too. FAR better than included strikers and with greater options. I grind the spine and spine side edges to expose the steel and grind a point to the blade for gouging holes. Use the spine of the blade for striking. I cut them to be as long as possible for whatever they're carried in. Can also be used for sawing... :-)
jolly fresh harbor freight sells a magnesium striker like shown with a hacksaw blade striker. Not saying buy that one, but that’ll give you an idea of what they’re talking about
Really great video! I have found that not all ferro rods are made equally. I think they'll all do the trick, but it just depends on how hard you may have to work to get some of them going because of size, quality, etc. I like a bigger/thicker ferro rod with a nice sturdy handle. I always use the back of my knife as the striker. I don't much care for the attached strikers, but some of them are pretty good. A lot of it comes down to trial and error.
Gobspark Armageddon. We've got one in each vehicle kit. My favorite as well! It's hard to use most firesteels with gloves on... no problem with this one. And I really think the gobs of sparks that come off it are fantastic. I like the idea of the using the cord lock light. Great way to purpose that. Thanks Scout.
Very Good Comparison Video! Sometimes I hold the knife next to the tinder and pull back the ferro rod like you showed. Most of the time I do it the correct way. Bob
I have a second rod attached to my magnesium block firestarter. Also take a hack saw blade snap it in half and wrap it with duck tape. The adhesive holds the magnesium firestarter in one spot and the adhesive is also flammable. Works great longer striker and great fire starter all in one
Fire steel. com is by far the best ferro rods I've purchased, and I've purchased a lot of them. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences with me, I appreciate it sir
Great explanation on fire steels. Love the kool aid comment. It's refreshing to see someone who has a genuine opinion rather than just listening to what all the "experts" say. I will say that I don't mind the magbar having a smaller ferro rod. I can normally get a fire going with one strike rather than 4-5 with a standard rod.
i am addicted to this channel its so amazing! i live in london uk, i cant wait to see more and more urban survival! this is my school to it! thank you Sir you are awsome please give us more Gray man staff!! will also get the online version of the dvd, just waiting for my salary lol
If you want to ignite a Trangia stove there's a third way of making fire: you hold the igniter still and draw back the firesteel. So the sparks falls into the alcohol and ignites it very well.
There is a good scientific reason why you and I feel hate/revulsion when hearing the high-pitched nails across a chalkboard sound. A long time ago our ancestors had a predator who made very close to that same sound before/as it attacked from the sky. Although I can't remember the name, scientists said it was a very large bird/vulture/condor-like thing. As I understand it one of our ancestors happened to have been born with a gene mutation that instinctively caused hate/revulsion to the disturbing sound. The next few generations of children also possessed the screech-hating gene. Most of those who survived to reproduce had the mutation as well.
Thank you very much! This helped me improve my technique and now I'm having much more success with my ferro rod. I probably should review this from time to time to make sure my technique doesn't degrade!
Great video, thanks for the round-up. It's important to know the use of the firesteel. In my ultralight titanium cook kit is a Light My Fire mini along with a Wazoo ceramic striker, ten grams total (1/3 ounce). It lights my alcohol stove every time, and my wood stove because I have cotton wool with petroleum jelly kindling. And I'm in Scotland that is, let's be honest, rarely more than a few hours walk away from a farmer or village. But if I were a bushcrafty type in US-style wilderness with feather-stick fires and maybe several days hike from civilisation I would feel under-prepared: I'd want a shower of more and hotter sparks.
Replace you firesteel with a BIC lighter and keep a back-up. Just because you can do things the hard way, why. Hell, if it is sunny I can use my eye glasses. Before file steels, people would use sticks, but there is no money selling this technology. Gets some water proof matches, cary in a pill bottle. Dont wast time F***ing around with a rod. Your buddy will just wip out his bic or zippo and you can get back to enjoying your time. Bring steel wool and a 9V battery if you want to be creative. I use my eye glasses if you have good sun. But hay, if you have to make feather sticks and blow into a handfull of wood to be happy, go for it. Its fun to do once.
In regard to people not liking magnesium. The reason is there is a bunch of immitators out there that have products that Look just like the DOAN mag blocks but dont work hardly at all. I had one of the cheap ones that could not shave magnesium off of the bar without lots and LOTS of work. I also threw the entire thing into a fire without it catching (don't know if that is actually abnormal for something like this but is sure did seem like it.) in short. The DOAN bars work, and the cheap Coghlan's do not. That is a good portion of why people have a bad taste in their mouth about them.
Agree 100%. The Doan magnesium fire starters are US forces issued and are very high quality and work very well. There are also heaps of cheap, crap chinese imports that barely work, if at all. It's probably this that puts people off the magnesium blocks. Buy quality, buy once.
Zen Viking I bought a DOAN simply because many people said they were crap; tried it out; easy fire first time. Now I carry it, and another large rod of magnesium, with a regular ferro rod. Magnesium is one great way to start a fire in unfavourable conditions. The small rod on the DOAN block is only to light the magnesium, not to light tinder and thus some falsely believe it is an insufficient tool. I don’t rely on one item or one method to get something done.
Just a friendly fyi. Magnesium doesn't burn unless its small shavings. Literally, doesn't burn at all. Some odd chemistry behind it. However, those small shavings do burn HOT.
@@geefreck magnesium has to be small enough to allow oxidation to occur from oxygen in the air. It needs the heat for the activation energy and infinite as well but a solid piece of magnesium shouldn't burn. Also, I've read that a decent amount of those cheap Mg blocks are actually aluminum or alloys and therefore wouldn't work the same.
I have tested the Doan, Coghlan's, and Chinese blocks. Doan are the best. Coghlan's work. RUN AWAY FROM THE CHINA CRAP!!! Only the fire steel is good on the Chinese versions.
I bought a couple of the Aurora ferro rods. Also, I've had the Coghlan ferro rods. With both the Aurora and the Coghlan's, at some point they stopped sparking, at all. This was the case even though both rods had been lightly used. They wouldn't spark with any striker that worked fine with other rods that I've had. It was as though they only had a relatively thin layer of striking material only on the outside of the rod. Bad news if you're in a survival situation, and I won't buy either of those ferro rods again.
Thanks much for this review, which helps total noobs [like me] as well as hardcore outdoorsmen, alike. Nicely done. I bought one like your Marine Corp one just for emergencies and now I know better how to use it, thanks to your demo.
?? The magnesium block with the flint steel is the best. Carve a little pile, even in the winter, kindling is not very dry. Beats the hell out of matches, Burns good and hot! Trying to light a fire with just a flint spark is an exercise in frustration! A zippo lighter also works well. A battery and SOS or steel wool works too. Nothing worse than when you are wet, cold hypothermic and can't get the fire going!
Yeah this is years old but I noticed something. You've got a speed sharp there. That's what I use as a striker. Is that too much? It seems to put speed bumps on my rod though.
I like overkill. Overkill is good when starting a fire and when taking down a deer or criminal. The 1/2" x 6" rods work easier than the smaller ones do.
BlackScoutSurvival That makes zero sense. The military uses weapons that kill 1,000 times over. They have plenty of skill. But everyone use what you want.
I'm a fan of my enclosed fire steel that is similar to the aurora except a bigger rod with a standard striker. Can't remember what brand it is. Using a fire steel is definitely a great skill to have but I personally keep a few lighters close by and would be my go to if I was injured and only had one mobile hand.
I'm about to buy my first ferrous rod. Who makes the one with the black handle with compartment inside and also has a compass. I like this video a lot. very informative! Thanks
Great video, as always,Jack....I base many of my purchases off your recommendations because you know what you are talking about!I like and respect your philosophy of use for most situations and items...It all makes sense to me....keep up the great videos and advice!
The best ferro rod fire starter is the Lightning Strike Fire Starter. Nothing you have shown even comes close. It is expensive at $65, but this one purchase you will not regret! Get one, test it out, I promise you will agree!
just excellent! i have some of the early magnesium with a portion of hacksaw blade attached by leather lace and thought these were no longer made--glad to see they are. i plan to get some new ones cause of your video.. thanks!
Thanks for your video, you have pointed out in the technique part of your video why I have so far failed to light anything with my light my fire 2 fire steel. :D
glad i watched this. almost drank some of that coolaid about pulling the ferro rod up against the knife instead of just stick the rod down on the surface and strike it with the knife like i have always done
Thank you sir. You are definitely saving peoples lives by providing survival skills knowledge. Keep up the good deeds and please make more videos about how to survive outdoors. Much love brother. 🦆 (just noticed this video is 5 years old, maybe an updated version would be great and possibly other/best/all ways to start a fire too, if you haven't already)
FYI if you can get a hold of them, the old made in the U.S. BlastMatches were AWESOME! The company sold several years ago to a company in Florida and they moved production to China. Since then they're not even close to the same in quality.
I’ve had five A-B marine mil-b-131h survival kits. In cold wet weather o’ I hated the Doan fire steel. All from the 90’s. Used two in training. Two robbed the goodies out of. And one still together in one piece. Just save it becouse, The Esee was top notch in cold wet weather. In fact would tie para-cord to Swiss Army knife or demo knife from same kit as stated. On the other of fire steel. Looped it through me belt with just enough cord to use. Left front pocket, Always on person. Lite my fire was always good kit as well. And yes salt watre will murder the rods. Bloody hell. Learned the hard way. . Did jump jacks til the morns early lite.
Hey Jack. I saw the topic and had to check it out. Sounds like your experience jives with my own. I tested dozens of different mfg's for the Modular Survival Kit project, came to the same conclusion and also carry products of the same mfg, which I'll use until it dies or I find something better. Keep up the great work! - Cache
Thanks for the information. I have a few firesteels myself including Mag. Blocks in all my camping & hunting packs but do like the large Armageddon one which I think I'll be getting soon.
I use the cheapest one and I used it with wood shavings for the first time and it lite the first time. All of these may be all good but being on a budget and economical I used the cheapest and of course I have matches soaked in candle wax works great and lighters or steel wool and square batteries light weight and easy to use. I have all these in my Bob bag got to be smart and not rely on just one source of fire starter just my way of doing things not trying to tell anyone what to do just my thoughts thanks
Well done video thanks. I didn't catch if you gave the link for the light if not but how about a link to get one as that is a nice addition to any lanyard.
I am 17, and want to try some of the techniques I have learned that I can't do at home. I would go with someone probably who has emergency supplies like first aid kits, etc. but I still don't know where I can do this?
Doan's is best I remove the ferro rod regroove the block and add a 5/16" works great. It is your life if you really need a fire get the 6"x 1/2" easier to hold onto when you have cold hands. The main thing is to know how to gather,build,and maintain a fire.
I've got a Gobspark from Firesteel.com and love it. Their rods seem to have more magnesium and throw the big globs of burning material. They've never let me down (hope I didn't just jinx myself).
The best tinder trick I know, which was taught to me as a kid, is to take your pocketknife (or striker) and rapidly scrape a area of your denim jeans. It will quickly accumulate a nice ball of fluffy lint that catches very easily.
If you don't have jeans on you could use belly button fluff and fluff from between the toes. Imagine their faces if you busted that one out. Sorry. I couldn't help myself
I ordered & recieved a 1/2" x 6" rod & I have to say I like this one most of all ! For some reason the sparks are hotter & it is so much easier to handle compared to the small versions I have. It ignites the magnesium a lot easier also along with many other things I use in wet conditions. I'm ordering 3 more for a few friends also.
I’m with you bro. There is always more then one way to skin a cat. Different situations call for different techniques. Anyone who starts talking about there being one best way to do anything instantly loses credibility.
hello, I always carry ferro rods, for example the one that comes with the gerber bear grylls survival pro knife, plus the USMC firesteel you showed here but: should the ferro rod be the first option to start a fire if you have a bic lighter or matches? thanks for the video and greetings from Uruguay.
+Alexander Nalerio Personally, I'd use a bic before I'd use a firesteel because its much simpler. However, its best to go with whatever you feel most comfortable with.
Nice to see you setting the sheeple straight on magnesium. I heard there was a few on the market with sub Parr magnesium, which I think is where this whole "magnesium strikers are useless" idea comes from. But I've always been a fan of having tinder integrated into the striker. The trick is to take the time to shave a nice big pile of magnesium to ignite then arrange the filings into a long thin line so you get a decent burn time rather than a quick flash . Yeah there are other strikers that throw bigger showers of sparks and those that will last longer but the integrated ones I've owned have always got the job done quite effectively. And while those fero rods are small, you're still gonna get hundreds, if not thousands, of strikes out of it, plus a good supply of tinder that's not susceptible to the elements.
Hey i just wanted to put this out there idk about the price range for the firesteel. Com fire steels but i got a 5 inch by 1/2 inch firesteel from aliexpress for around 10$ canadian might be worth a shot to check out but the shipping does take a while
I need to get some more fire rides have used a couple of those like the Light My Fire are pretty good I do like the ones that the magnesium like the two rods you had together or the big Square cheap one you find a Harbor Freight that you have
I like my mag block,i keep laundry lint,in my pack..its free..plus I found a lawn boy mower,an old one..they are made out of mag, I use a drill,and within a few,mins I have mag shaveingd..man do I get a super fast fire..one spark...
I find that i use back of my gso knives ( mod 90spine) as thr best strikers for my ferro rods. Can get a very good close focused spark with thumb strike technique or spray sparks. Do you use your knife spine alot for this purpose too?
I do sometimes. But I find that my knife being my Most important survival tool I need to reduce its use to its intended purpose...cutting. The more time I have it safe in the sheath the more time it is secure. Also carrying around and moving around with a sharp knife is not safe. Unless your cutting with it. I'm a firm believer in managing and conserving resources in a survival situation and I "train like I fight" so I use a scraper most all the time these days. Hopefully that explanation helps.
+BlackScoutSurvival Hi thanks for replying so quick, appreciated. I take your point on board and something to consider re that philosophy. thank you . :-) a.t.b. vee
Hello Bryan I have heard that a lot of electrical appliances have magnesium bars in it. I hope you can make a video that shows how we can scavenge for them. The magnesium bars available here is the one Chinese type, which is only good as paper weight. I haven't tried to look for other brand yet. But scavenging from appliances that we are about to throw out would be nice and save us a few bucks. By the way automotive parts is said to also have magnesium in it. Keep doing the vids please. Don't mind negative people.
Hey boss I enjoyed the video was very informative you had a good selection of firesteels my only comment is with all the different Fire Starting products why go with firesteel I mean there's blast match and pull rope fire starter chemical fire starters and my personal favorite which everybody overlooks road flares
You missed the best compact one .The original exotac lasts for ages is light and is easy to use. It also fits on the firesteel loop of most custom knife sheaths with minimal modding
Great video. My dad passed away and I'm finding things that he used for survival to take care of us and I'm trying to learn more by myself now. A little knowledge is better than none i guess.
Thank you for this review! Years ago I used a firestarter like your military issue one. But recently, my "camping" trips are in an off-grid cabin with a wood stove. I thought I was prepared with several lighters and those fireplace starters. But during my last trip up to the cabin, it was 20 degrees when I arrived and I had a rough time getting the fire started. That's when I realized I wasn't as prepared as I thought I was. THANK YOU for showing the items and making comments about fine motor skills. As I am getting older, I am going to need one of the larger ones - as my grip isn't what it used to be. Thank you so much for this review.
Appreciated you mentioned deteriorating motor skills when using these things and you're right about the magnesium, it can help a lot in wet and windy conditions especially if you have a little tape (any kind) to collect the shavings on to, even a band aid will do. Great stuff!!
jelkel25 I designed my fire kit based on redundancy. I always have magnesium on my kit. For those who think all you need is a Bick lighter, Have you ever tried to light a cig lighter when is 30 below and windy?
F Furtado Yes, I have tried to light fires at 30/40 below. I learnt to have two Clippers in my pocket if there's going to be any sort of jazzy weather though you are correct, sometimes even that won't work. A few extra tricks in the fire kit usually helps, petroleum jelly, cotton balls, a small spray bottle of surgical spirit (Good rubbing alcohol), hexi blocks or yesterday's newspaper with a fire steel. I'd rather have the odd extra on me than find things getting desperate.
The tape is a great idea! I have never seen anyone use it for that purpose. Thanks for mentioning that.
That first one looks great for lighting your thumb.
Ferro rods decay if left wet. I seen some with big chunks broken off. All your left with is some powder...Best to keep it covered to start with.
Great review - very helpful. One word of advice - there are cheap Chinese magnesium blocks out there that do not burn. The magnesium flakes greatly enhance a fire steel and burn in the rain. but if you buy one that is not a Doan test it first. If the magnesium flakes don't burn throw it away.
I have the firesteel which is issued to the Swedish military which have the tool, combination whistle and striker together on a lanyard. I like it because of the color orange which makes it easy to find.
I bought one of the light my fire ones and it came with a saftey whistle on the steel bar i was impressed 10/10 recommend
Trouble with light my fire is they're kinda small and expensive
Very instructive video about how to choose your fire steel. Many of them are useless in the field. Only 2 sizes and designs are good choices. I agree
I agree with everything you have stated in this video. I've had two Blast Match's fail on me. On one of them the plastic holding the rod broke and the other the striker broke off. It would be a great fire starter if someone would re-engineer it out of aluminum instead of the fragile plastic. Bought A Gob-Spark and a Fire steel 4.0 w/magnesium rod. Both are great fire starting tools. They now have a place in my survival kit.
Based on your review I bought 3 of the Gobspark Armageddon fire starters and I am very pleased! I've tried many ferrocerium rods over the years and didn't expect what this delivered. Sparks went from chest high all the way to my floor! I've never seen this before! The striker has the sharpest edges I've seen and the case holds the Gobstricker securely. Yes you can use this with gloves or trembling hands. quality is superb. I tried it on my stairs and a spark went down about 5 or 6 feet! Never seen that before! Cannot practice on any of my floors or stairs with carpet. My wife has seen me strike many fire rods but she said none have had the sparks the firesteel.com rod delivered. WOW! What a survival treasure.
I hope the next purchase is a fire extinguisher and a quality divorce attorney!
I would like to add if I may.......regardless of which fire steel one chooses to carry or use, one needs to "practice", and get familiar with what it takes to actually get a fire started with it. One needs to be skilled in starting a fire, and not just think your going to use it when your in that moment of need. That's a disaster waiting to happen. The "mag-slab" requires a lot of practice more than the other's shown in this video......but, none the less, a good fire starter "if" you familiarize yourself with how it works. Anyway, that's my two cents. Remember guys, get out there and PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE with your fire steels, now is the time to hone your skills, NOT when you find yourself in a real life situation......you may not have the time to "figure it out." Just think about that. Stephen, Ohio
+BuckeyeBushcraft L. I AGREE 1000% Stephan !
Funny you mention, my son learned this lesson this week while camping. Great review and must practice in all different climate & wood types.
BuckeyeBushcraft L.
Best comment!!! First time I tried to light a fire using a fire steel, I got lots of blisters on my hands ,but couldn't ignite the tinder..... actually I was using "dry" leaves, and grass, that I gathered from the ground, believing they were really dry and ready to use as a good tinder! Then, after watching some videos on UA-cam, I've learned how to collect dry tinder from the trees, pine needles, stuff hanging from the branches, barks, dried bamboo fibers, etc... No matter how good and fancy your equipment is, you gotta try it before going to the woods, and first of all, learn how to make your " dry tinder nest"!!! Good luck to all of you!
I work with a few guys and when I went camping with one of them he was surprised I always use a ferro rod, then we were talking about it at work one day and another coworker said 'i figured I'd learn how to use it when I have to" I laughed.
Its really not hard to get a fire going with one if you know what you're doing. Only difference is prep to me.
I usually use a 1/2" one since you can get a much bigger spark off the longer rod. but no difference with smallers.
I found the biggest difference is what you use to strike. The strikers that come with are hard since its all in your fingers, if you use the spine of a knife you can use your whole hand so its easier. Either way after getting some shavings of tinder I can get a fire going after a few strikes. I always laugh when i see people holding a rod away and launching sparks at their tinder.
+BuckeyeBushcraft L. Amen. Practice is absolutely the key. So many people spend a great deal of money and time looking for the best fire starter out there trying to find a great knife that will be a great striker and a Ferro rod that will strike a ton of sparks and the best tinder that will take the spark and ignite and all of that is great BUT the BEST fire starter, The only fire starter you really need to invest in is YOU. The person. If you don't have the experience and the practice and the muscle memory down you will have a hell of a time getting the ferro, Tinder, Scraper to work. If you do have the practice and experience then you can take some of the crappiest equipment out there and still get it to work. Of course there are exception to that where you will find natural material may end up working better than the man made equipment but again that is only if you have invested in yourself enough to practice.
My blast match broke after 2 yeas of having it, so I made it into a key chain ferro rod. It still works amazingly. The magnesium/flint striker I love. It takes more work than most fire starters but is more reliable then most out there. I always say 2 ways to make fire, and one should be the magnesium bar. The 5" x 1/2" is always a favorite of mine, it has yet to let me down. The other's I have very little experience with. I have used some of them but not enough to say anything about them.
the best one is clearly the one thats in your pocket when you need it
Fair point
Noice
That goes for anything. The best camera is the one you have when you need to take a picture. The best EDC tool is the one you have when you need to use it.
No shit sherlock
@doubledrats235 so true. The best Axe is the only one with you. The best computer is the only one you have. The best wristwatch is the one on your wrist.
I just bought UCO Titan Fire Striker at Cabelas Canada 🇨🇦,,can't wait to try it,I also like Couglands Ferro Rods and Magnesium slabs...So much fun to practice to use it with cheapest Mora Companion Carbon steel,,,Yes i had to sharpen the spine but now is AWESOME...Sparks like crazy and it will make a fire 🔥...
Thanks for the instructions on striking the Ferris rod!
I just bought a camp firestarter at the dollar store for $3 and it works great.They're also selling a mini foldable shovel with a pick for $4 and its compact and very durable.
A clipper lighter. Or a Zippo lighter with extra flints in the bottom. You can replace the cotton with hemp or other firestarter. Foolproof and one handed also.
Here's a tip, use a piece of Hacksaw blade for a striker, you will get the hottest sparks off any firesteel out there!
I do this, too. FAR better than included strikers and with greater options.
I grind the spine and spine side edges to expose the steel and grind a point to the blade for gouging holes. Use the spine of the blade for striking.
I cut them to be as long as possible for whatever they're carried in. Can also be used for sawing... :-)
jolly fresh harbor freight sells a magnesium striker like shown with a hacksaw blade striker. Not saying buy that one, but that’ll give you an idea of what they’re talking about
What I said
Really great video! I have found that not all ferro rods are made equally. I think they'll all do the trick, but it just depends on how hard you may have to work to get some of them going because of size, quality, etc. I like a bigger/thicker ferro rod with a nice sturdy handle. I always use the back of my knife as the striker. I don't much care for the attached strikers, but some of them are pretty good. A lot of it comes down to trial and error.
***** I agree.
Thank you. I'm from the era of of the magnesium block with built-in flint, and using a knife blade.
Gobspark Armageddon. We've got one in each vehicle kit. My favorite as well! It's hard to use most firesteels with gloves on... no problem with this one. And I really think the gobs of sparks that come off it are fantastic. I like the idea of the using the cord lock light. Great way to purpose that. Thanks Scout.
The best one is the one you have in your pocket with you, when you need it
Yes buddy
Best Ferro Rod comparison review I've watched. Many thanks!
Very Good Comparison Video! Sometimes I hold the knife next to the tinder and pull back the ferro rod like you showed. Most of the time I do it the correct way. Bob
I have a second rod attached to my magnesium block firestarter. Also take a hack saw blade snap it in half and wrap it with duck tape. The adhesive holds the magnesium firestarter in one spot and the adhesive is also flammable. Works great longer striker and great fire starter all in one
Fire steel. com is by far the best ferro rods I've purchased, and I've purchased a lot of them. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences with me, I appreciate it sir
Great explanation on fire steels. Love the kool aid comment. It's refreshing to see someone who has a genuine opinion rather than just listening to what all the "experts" say. I will say that I don't mind the magbar having a smaller ferro rod. I can normally get a fire going with one strike rather than 4-5 with a standard rod.
i am addicted to this channel its so amazing! i live in london uk, i cant wait to see more and more urban survival! this is my school to it! thank you Sir you are awsome please give us more Gray man staff!! will also get the online version of the dvd, just waiting for my salary lol
the best explanation, from technics and variety of options, great video.
I use a bic Lighter it is more reliable quicker and works its also lighter to carry.
That is a sweet hat! Tan and black great color combo.
If you want to ignite a Trangia stove there's a third way of making fire: you hold the igniter still and draw back the firesteel. So the sparks falls into the alcohol and ignites it very well.
The sound at 03:00 will haunt me forever.
There is a good scientific reason why you and I feel hate/revulsion when hearing the high-pitched nails across a chalkboard sound. A long time ago our ancestors had a predator who made very close to that same sound before/as it attacked from the sky. Although I can't remember the name, scientists said it was a very large bird/vulture/condor-like thing.
As I understand it one of our ancestors happened to have been born with a gene mutation that instinctively caused hate/revulsion to the disturbing sound. The next few generations of children also possessed the screech-hating gene. Most of those who survived to reproduce had the mutation as well.
Great Video! It's always great to hear good information by someone that's qualified thank you so much for your time and your service!
Just received my Gobspark Armageddon. Heck of a nice firesteel, can't wait to test it out.
Thank you very much! This helped me improve my technique and now I'm having much more success with my ferro rod. I probably should review this from time to time to make sure my technique doesn't degrade!
Great video, thanks for the round-up. It's important to know the use of the firesteel. In my ultralight titanium cook kit is a Light My Fire mini along with a Wazoo ceramic striker, ten grams total (1/3 ounce). It lights my alcohol stove every time, and my wood stove because I have cotton wool with petroleum jelly kindling. And I'm in Scotland that is, let's be honest, rarely more than a few hours walk away from a farmer or village. But if I were a bushcrafty type in US-style wilderness with feather-stick fires and maybe several days hike from civilisation I would feel under-prepared: I'd want a shower of more and hotter sparks.
The hacksaw blade used to strike the magnesium block, the hacksaw blade also produces sparks when it is struck by a sharp flint.
Replace you firesteel with a BIC lighter and keep a back-up. Just because you can do things the hard way, why. Hell, if it is sunny I can use my eye glasses. Before file steels, people would use sticks, but there is no money selling this technology. Gets some water proof matches, cary in a pill bottle. Dont wast time F***ing around with a rod. Your buddy will just wip out his bic or zippo and you can get back to enjoying your time. Bring steel wool and a 9V battery if you want to be creative. I use my eye glasses if you have good sun. But hay, if you have to make feather sticks and blow into a handfull of wood to be happy, go for it. Its fun to do once.
In regard to people not liking magnesium. The reason is there is a bunch of immitators out there that have products that Look just like the DOAN mag blocks but dont work hardly at all. I had one of the cheap ones that could not shave magnesium off of the bar without lots and LOTS of work. I also threw the entire thing into a fire without it catching (don't know if that is actually abnormal for something like this but is sure did seem like it.) in short. The DOAN bars work, and the cheap Coghlan's do not. That is a good portion of why people have a bad taste in their mouth about them.
Agree 100%. The Doan magnesium fire starters are US forces issued and are very high quality and work very well. There are also heaps of cheap, crap chinese imports that barely work, if at all. It's probably this that puts people off the magnesium blocks. Buy quality, buy once.
Zen Viking
I bought a DOAN simply because many people said they were crap; tried it out; easy fire first time. Now I carry it, and another large rod of magnesium, with a regular ferro rod. Magnesium is one great way to start a fire in unfavourable conditions.
The small rod on the DOAN block is only to light the magnesium, not to light tinder and thus some falsely believe it is an insufficient tool.
I don’t rely on one item or one method to get something done.
Just a friendly fyi. Magnesium doesn't burn unless its small shavings. Literally, doesn't burn at all. Some odd chemistry behind it. However, those small shavings do burn HOT.
@@geefreck magnesium has to be small enough to allow oxidation to occur from oxygen in the air. It needs the heat for the activation energy and infinite as well but a solid piece of magnesium shouldn't burn. Also, I've read that a decent amount of those cheap Mg blocks are actually aluminum or alloys and therefore wouldn't work the same.
I have tested the Doan, Coghlan's, and Chinese blocks. Doan are the best. Coghlan's work. RUN AWAY FROM THE CHINA CRAP!!! Only the fire steel is good on the Chinese versions.
I bought a couple of the Aurora ferro rods. Also, I've had the Coghlan ferro rods. With both the Aurora and the Coghlan's, at some point they stopped sparking, at all. This was the case even though both rods had been lightly used. They wouldn't spark with any striker that worked fine with other rods that I've had. It was as though they only had a relatively thin layer of striking material only on the outside of the rod. Bad news if you're in a survival situation, and I won't buy either of those ferro rods again.
Thanks much for this review, which helps total noobs [like me] as well as hardcore outdoorsmen, alike. Nicely done. I bought one like your Marine Corp one just for emergencies and now I know better how to use it, thanks to your demo.
?? The magnesium block with the flint steel is the best. Carve a little pile, even in the winter, kindling is not very dry. Beats the hell out of matches, Burns good and hot! Trying to light a fire with just a flint spark is an exercise in frustration! A zippo lighter also works well. A battery and SOS or steel wool works too. Nothing worse than when you are wet, cold hypothermic and can't get the fire going!
Yeah this is years old but I noticed something. You've got a speed sharp there. That's what I use as a striker. Is that too much? It seems to put speed bumps on my rod though.
I have most of the fire steels u have there. Gotta agree the gobspark is my favorite by far
I have had the Firesteel Armageddon for a few years It works great.
I still have a Strike Force that was made for Gerber over 20 years ago. thanks for the video.
I like overkill. Overkill is good when starting a fire and when taking down a deer or criminal. The 1/2" x 6" rods work easier than the smaller ones do.
If you have skill you don't need overkill when making fires, taking down criminals, or shooting deer.
BlackScoutSurvival That makes zero sense. The military uses weapons that kill 1,000 times over. They have plenty of skill. But everyone use what you want.
+Orang Pendek makes complete sense. If you have skills you would understand
BlackScoutSurvival Okay.
+BlackScoutSurvival I'm not trying to be confrontational but didn't you say the opposite in your building a fire kit video??
Thanks. There are SO many choices out there.
I'm a fan of my enclosed fire steel that is similar to the aurora except a bigger rod with a standard striker. Can't remember what brand it is. Using a fire steel is definitely a great skill to have but I personally keep a few lighters close by and would be my go to if I was injured and only had one mobile hand.
Enjoyed the video. I just made a handle for my rod by using a slate turkey call rod. Keep up the good videos. Enjoyed
I'm about to buy my first ferrous rod. Who makes the one with the black handle with compartment inside and also has a compass. I like this video a lot. very informative! Thanks
Great video, as always,Jack....I base many of my purchases off your recommendations because you know what you are talking about!I like and respect your philosophy of use for most situations and items...It all makes sense to me....keep up the great videos and advice!
Really appreciate that Kathy
The best ferro rod fire starter is the Lightning Strike Fire Starter. Nothing you have shown even comes close. It is expensive at $65, but this one purchase you will not regret! Get one, test it out, I promise you will agree!
I'll be damned. I have Speedy Sharps laying around and never thought of that. Former FMF Doc here, keep up the good work.
Great presentation of valuable information. Thanks very much.
just excellent! i have some of the early magnesium with a portion of hacksaw blade attached by leather lace and thought these were no longer made--glad to see they are. i plan to get some new ones cause of your video.. thanks!
good video, info on salt water on ferro rod very good
Thanks for your video, you have pointed out in the technique part of your video why I have so far failed to light anything with my light my fire 2 fire steel. :D
You should use pskook survival paracord on your fire steels... it has built in tinder line, fishing line, cotton line and 7 poly lines!
glad i watched this. almost drank some of that coolaid about pulling the ferro rod up against the knife instead of just stick the rod down on the surface and strike it with the knife like i have always done
This man was the reason for Australian bushfire
Incredibly helpful. Thanks so much!
Thank you sir. You are definitely saving peoples lives by providing survival skills knowledge. Keep up the good deeds and please make more videos about how to survive outdoors. Much love brother. 🦆 (just noticed this video is 5 years old, maybe an updated version would be great and possibly other/best/all ways to start a fire too, if you haven't already)
You got a new subscriber. I will be checking out your videos for sure.
This was a very informative video. Great job at comparing the advantages and disadvantages of each firesteel.
FYI if you can get a hold of them, the old made in the U.S. BlastMatches were AWESOME! The company sold several years ago to a company in Florida and they moved production to China. Since then they're not even close to the same in quality.
i really like the sparks I get using a speedy sharp on my ferro rod.
I’ve had five A-B marine mil-b-131h survival kits. In cold wet weather o’ I hated the Doan fire steel. All from the 90’s. Used two in training. Two robbed the goodies out of. And one still together in one piece. Just save it becouse, The Esee was top notch in cold wet weather. In fact would tie para-cord to Swiss Army knife or demo knife from same kit as stated. On the other of fire steel. Looped it through me belt with just enough cord to use. Left front pocket, Always on person. Lite my fire was always good kit as well.
And yes salt watre will murder the rods. Bloody hell. Learned the hard way. . Did jump jacks til the morns early lite.
Hey Jack. I saw the topic and had to check it out. Sounds like your experience jives with my own. I tested dozens of different mfg's for the Modular Survival Kit project, came to the same conclusion and also carry products of the same mfg, which I'll use until it dies or I find something better. Keep up the great work!
- Cache
Thanks for the information.
I have a few firesteels myself including Mag. Blocks in all my camping & hunting packs but do like the large Armageddon one which I think I'll be getting soon.
S
Do You know the Bic ? And One can wrap them whatertight with some matches around them too.
gobspark is the bomb i have 3. with the carbide blade sharpener, you cant fail.
I use the cheapest one and I used it with wood shavings for the first time and it lite the first time. All of these may be all good but being on a budget and economical I used the cheapest and of course I have matches soaked in candle wax works great and lighters or steel wool and square batteries light weight and easy to use. I have all these in my Bob bag got to be smart and not rely on just one source of fire starter just my way of doing things not trying to tell anyone what to do just my thoughts thanks
Well done video thanks. I didn't catch if you gave the link for the light if not but how about a link to get one as that is a nice addition to any lanyard.
I am 17, and want to try some of the techniques I have learned that I can't do at home. I would go with someone probably who has emergency supplies like first aid kits, etc. but I still don't know where I can do this?
Excellent video. I have the same opinion on the blast match, good for one handed use. Firesteel.com and ESEE adv kit are the best ive used.
Doan's is best I remove the ferro rod regroove the block and add a 5/16" works great. It is your life if you really need a fire get the 6"x 1/2" easier to hold onto when you have cold hands. The main thing is to know how to gather,build,and maintain a fire.
I've got a Gobspark from Firesteel.com and love it. Their rods seem to have more magnesium and throw the big globs of burning material. They've never let me down (hope I didn't just jinx myself).
Scott Hill, do their rods work well with high carbon knives?
Thank you!
Yes. High Carbon or Stainless, it doesn't matter. As long as there's a sharp 90 degree spine on the knife.
Scott Hill Thank you! =D
LOL, me too. Just ordered two Gobsparks, :-)
This guys heart is pounding like if you’ve noticed
The best tinder trick I know, which was taught to me as a kid, is to take your pocketknife (or striker) and rapidly scrape a area of your denim jeans. It will quickly accumulate a nice ball of fluffy lint that catches very easily.
ua-cam.com/video/kIwn5VkWkdw/v-deo.html
Watch this video
If you don't have jeans on you could use belly button fluff and fluff from between the toes. Imagine their faces if you busted that one out.
Sorry. I couldn't help myself
OMG … Now that cracked me up … true LOL
Have u ever done the Dakota fire pit
+Joseph Humpherston ua-cam.com/video/Y591uKu7lMI/v-deo.html
I ordered & recieved a 1/2" x 6" rod & I have to say I like this one most of all ! For some reason the sparks are hotter & it is so much easier to handle compared to the small versions I have. It ignites the magnesium a lot easier also along with many other things I use in wet conditions. I'm ordering 3 more for a few friends also.
Where's the Nanostriker xl lol that is protected from salt water too right?
I’m with you bro. There is always more then one way to skin a cat. Different situations call for different techniques. Anyone who starts talking about there being one best way to do anything instantly loses credibility.
I kept the magnesium block along with a different fero rod just for using the magnesium
Rest or steady the striker onto the tinder, then pull the ferro rod back. That is where the sparks are the hottest, next to the steel striker.
No bullshit
Why the hell is there a heart beat through your whole video?
hello, I always carry ferro rods, for example the one that comes with the gerber bear grylls survival pro knife, plus the USMC firesteel you showed here but: should the ferro rod be the first option to start a fire if you have a bic lighter or matches? thanks for the video and greetings from Uruguay.
+Alexander Nalerio Personally, I'd use a bic before I'd use a firesteel because its much simpler. However, its best to go with whatever you feel most comfortable with.
of course! the bic is the first choice always, but in these cases being redundant is important. " two turns in one and one turn in nothing"
Nice to see you setting the sheeple straight on magnesium. I heard there was a few on the market with sub Parr magnesium, which I think is where this whole "magnesium strikers are useless" idea comes from. But I've always been a fan of having tinder integrated into the striker. The trick is to take the time to shave a nice big pile of magnesium to ignite then arrange the filings into a long thin line so you get a decent burn time rather than a quick flash .
Yeah there are other strikers that throw bigger showers of sparks and those that will last longer but the integrated ones I've owned have always got the job done quite effectively. And while those fero rods are small, you're still gonna get hundreds, if not thousands, of strikes out of it, plus a good supply of tinder that's not susceptible to the elements.
Making a line to increase burn time, outstanding!
Thank you for that but of knowledge, simple but efficient
Would have to agree on the gobspark, hands down the way to go on ferro rods. And great c/s from fire steel.com
Hey i just wanted to put this out there idk about the price range for the firesteel. Com fire steels but i got a 5 inch by 1/2 inch firesteel from aliexpress for around 10$ canadian might be worth a shot to check out but the shipping does take a while
I need to get some more fire rides have used a couple of those like the Light My Fire are pretty good I do like the ones that the magnesium like the two rods you had together or the big Square cheap one you find a Harbor Freight that you have
I like my mag block,i keep laundry lint,in my pack..its free..plus I found a lawn boy mower,an old one..they are made out of mag, I use a drill,and within a few,mins I have mag shaveingd..man do I get a super fast fire..one spark...
I find that i use back of my gso knives ( mod 90spine) as thr best strikers for my ferro rods. Can get a very good close focused spark with thumb strike technique or spray sparks. Do you use your knife spine alot for this purpose too?
I do sometimes. But I find that my knife being my Most important survival tool I need to reduce its use to its intended purpose...cutting. The more time I have it safe in the sheath the more time it is secure. Also carrying around and moving around with a sharp knife is not safe. Unless your cutting with it. I'm a firm believer in managing and conserving resources in a survival situation and I "train like I fight" so I use a scraper most all the time these days. Hopefully that explanation helps.
+BlackScoutSurvival Hi thanks for replying so quick, appreciated. I take your point on board and something to consider re that philosophy. thank you . :-) a.t.b. vee
Hello Bryan I have heard that a lot of electrical appliances have magnesium bars in it. I hope you can make a video that shows how we can scavenge for them. The magnesium bars available here is the one Chinese type, which is only good as paper weight.
I haven't tried to look for other brand yet. But scavenging from appliances that we are about to throw out would be nice and save us a few bucks.
By the way automotive parts is said to also have magnesium in it.
Keep doing the vids please. Don't mind negative people.
Watched the whole thing and liked the demo, but what I took away was the cord light. That looks like a functional light. Is it decently bright?
+Lazy Man Prepper $28 Holy Crap!
Sorry it's only $4.99. That link must be bad. Here is a good one
firesteel.com/Cordlock-Light
Hey boss I enjoyed the video was very informative you had a good selection of firesteels my only comment is with all the different Fire Starting products why go with firesteel I mean there's blast match and pull rope fire starter chemical fire starters and my personal favorite which everybody overlooks road flares
There is a low deep toned pulse all throughout the video. What is that from/for?
You missed the best compact one .The original exotac lasts for ages is light and is easy to use. It also fits on the firesteel loop of most custom knife sheaths with minimal modding