Jumbo Firesteel Rod

Made of the alloy ferrocerium, these rods have the property of producing very hot sparks when rubbed against a rough surface. Ferrocerium has a very low melting temperature, and these sparks are actually tiny flakes of molten ferrocerium, ignited by the friction of the scraping action of a rough surface.

Unlike matches or lighters, the rod will still function when wet or in high winds. The crucial part to starting a fire in these conditions is directing the shower of sparks onto good dry tinder. Cotton balls soaked in Vaseline are excellent. Many types of tinder can be made on the spot with a sharp knife. We suggest you experiment with your local plant material to see what will work best, so you will be prepared in the event of an emergency.

Ferrocerium rods now come in many sizes, but we have found the larger sizes to be easiest to use and provide the longest life. Add a handle of your own design, with a bit of carbon steel for a striker, and you have your own unique fire starting kit, great for the backpack, car, camper and cabin.