Firesteel

Mike Martinez

Mike Martinez

Well-Known Member
So, I've been kicking the idea of getting a couple of firesteel blanks and making some firesteels as gifts for a few friends and maybe one or two to give away... With that said, what do you look for in a firesteel? What diameter, length, handle shape and material do you like? Thank you all for your input.
 
Boss has some on his website, you could look there. I have the same brand but I bought from the website they work great sparks burn for a very long time. When camping i usually can start a fire with just some fine dry grass and pine needles.
just remember with these you have to strike fast and with pressure or it will just shave it off, it takes a bit of practice but once you have it down it works great.
I would opt from the larger (around 1/4" X 3" or larger)
 
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1095 with a brine quench makes the best. A strike face of not over 1/4" thick. Slightly narrower is better, as it gives a more concentrated strike. Shape is a personal preference, but to keep it simple a C or U will suit most. Early trade strikers were full ovals, like an elongated washer. These were quite thin, as little as 1/16" to 1/8", made from a strip hammer welded together. In use, I find it best to hold a piece of char cloth on top of the flint, and strike the flint rather than vice versa. A good companion piece to go with the striker is a tinder tube. 1/2" cotton unholstery cording in a metal tube. Once pre charred, it will quickly catch a spark and smolder. Once you have a fire going pull the cord inside the tube to extinguish it. These were used as pipe lighters as well as fire starters in early times. Here is a little kit I make and sell when time allows. The pocket contains a flint and small tinder tube. The pocket is 2 1/2" x 2 1/2"

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Not sure if your refering to firesteels you strike with a flint or ferro rods

Here are a couple of fancy handled ferro rods i made

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Sorry about the poor photo's

atb
Steve
 
Thank you Steve. I was actually referring to the ferro rods but oddly enough, I need advice on both. So it worked out.
 
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