Starting a fire is a fundamental skill that has been essential for human survival throughout history. In today’s world, we have a myriad of tools and technologies at our disposal to start fires, ranging from traditional methods to modern innovations.
Fire is an essential tool, whether you’re trying to stay warm in the wilderness or cook in your garden. However, without a decent fire starter, it might be difficult to start a fire. More than simply a BIC or no name brand lighter and some kindling or shredded bark are used to make a fire today.
Fire starters are devices or materials specifically designed to ignite a fire. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a camper, a survivalist, or someone who simply enjoys a cozy fireplace at home, understanding the different types of fire starters and their characteristics is crucial. From basic matches to advanced fire starter gels, each option serves a unique purpose in helping us harness the power of fire. Additionally, they are better and safer than dousing a pile of wood or briquettes with a liquid charcoal starter, which might impart a flavour to your food. A competent fire starter can start a fire fast, maintain it, and keep it going for hours without harming the flavour or aroma of the food being cooked in it. Fire starters have really evolved over the years from simple pieces of carbon steel to more functional survival tools. We break down our favorite 5!
1. UST BlastMatch Fire Starter – $15-$20
UST BlastMatch Fire Starter is our favorite because it does exactly what it is designed to do, light fires, extremely well with little effort. It’s actually almost comical how little force is required to start a fire with this thing. Bonus points for including a waterproof protective cover and a design that allows it to be struck whether dry or wet!
2. Exotact Nanostriker XL Fire Starter – $25-$30
Exotact previously made the original Nanostriker, which was great but the XL is bigger and better. A little different from the other fire starters on the list as it uses a tungsten carbide to create the spark for the fire. Very effective and cool design!
3. MSR Strike Igniter – $12-$15
MSR makes some great no nonsense gear and this fire starter is exactly that. The Strike Igniter was designed to be part of a survivalist kit with an ultralight and weatherproof design. It is extremely effective and easy enough to toss into any kit!
4. SOG Flint – $15-$20
SOG could have just made a fire starter, but instead they made a tool. The Flint really is a survival and defensive tool that has a great size to it. Included in the Flint is a fire starter, a steel wool tinder compartment, a carbide-tipped glass breaker, and a safety whistle. It’s a little more than some of the others on the list, but it also comes with a lot more!
5. Coleman Magnesium Fire Starter – $5-$10
The Coleman brand is known for all their camping gear and durability and I can tell you their fire starter kit delivers. It is extremely simple, reliable, and very affordable. Coming in at the size of a pocket knife it’s extremely compact and easy to carry. To use, simply shave off some magnesium with the included knife and then use the same knife to scrape flint onto the magnesium shavings… bam you have fire!
Enjoy!
Ben