I love how he isn't scared to admit that his technique was flawed and he corrected it over time and pointed out what was wrong at the same time he's educating well learning himself great video
I've bought Bayite ferro rods off both eBay and Amazon. All of them throw sparks just fine, so I'm good with the cheap stuff. I would try not to worry too much about the comments that you're doing it wrong, or wasting your money. If you're getting sparks off your ferro rod, you can't be doing too much wrong, and you haven't wasted your money if you're getting what you need - sparks.
There is a phenomenon called "perceived value" where we actually believe things that cost more are more valuable.. The same bottle of wine will taste "different" to a person who is charged $200.00 opposed to $10.
This has become my favorite channel. Your honest, sincere and have a teachers heart. You don’t claim to be all-knowing, but your knowledge is extremely helpful. Keep up the great work.
Thank you...I appreciate that. I truly try to look at things objectively and produce videos based upon my experience and to relate it to how it might apply to others. Sometimes long winded, yes...but I try to be complete! Thanks for watching!
Any of them will work just fine. I've bought a lot of different ones and they've all worked. The people telling you that you wasted your money more than likely wasted theirs buying pretty much the same thing with a handle added.
I agree with this. No matter what kinda ferro rod I'm using, a 10 dollar Amazon rod or a $65 REI Premium job, the striker seems to be more important. My technique and the quality of my striking edge make the biggest difference in my experience.
Super glue a small flathead nail to the end of the ferro rod for a full scrap stroke or drive the nail into the edge of the fat wood for a base platform. Use a drill bit the same size as the nailhead and drill an indentation into the bottom of the ferro rod. Place the indentation on the nailhead for stability
You were holding the striker wrong. Hold it flat , then slightly lift the back edge. Maybe Nathan was having an off day. We all do. He’s a really super great guy!
I use Bayite Ferro rod all the time. Don't think Nathen Ferro rods are any better. You just paying for him to put a handle on it. Don't let people fool you into believing there is a difference. Keep up the good work brother
Agreed and all due respect , he didn't create his own ferro rod company with a new magical chemistry . Strikers made from ceramic and high speed tool steel used with lathes is not exactly rocket science . I did it over 40 years ago .
@@makerofmanythings8447 This ferro rod worship got stupid years ago and it's amusing how many individuals think using a ferro rod requires talent . Zippo lighter + spare flints with extra fuel in an eye drops bottle and common book matches . The ferro is for backup . 3 ways to start a fire and try starting a fire in freezing rain with a ferro rod after spending 10 minutes prepping the tinder . ATB
@@QuantumPyrite_88.9 Thats NOT me, you've got it backwards bro, all I carry is a fatwood farro rod firestarter with 6 foot of firecord that I make. all of the rest of the fire making implements are for yuppie, snowflakes, but that's just me, with all do respect.
Couple things: 1. Nathan4071 seems like a really nice guy. I just bought a striker and 8x1 inch rod with handle and he is making me a matching set. What's my secret? I was flexible about when its done or what it looks like... he is a busy guy, but he produces good quality product. He won't have time for a custom job, but that does not mean you can't get a matching set from him if you are flexible with its looks and delivery schedule. 2. As far as ferro rods go, the correct one for you is the one you have with you. I got a little 1 inch rod and striker threaded on my shoe laces, why? Because it is with me all the time and using that would be much easier than trying to get bow drill going when stranded on an empty island. 3. Why should anyone buy the premium rod like he 1"x8" from Nathan? Basically if you either want one or you noticed that you have FAD (Firesteel acquisition disorder). If you keep buying fire stills, because this on is longer and that one if fatter and the that one is something else... just get yourself the biggest, badest set you can get and quench your thirst.
You maybe got him on an off day. I have had him drill holes for me in ferro rods. He made me a set.i cannot speak more highly of Nathan. He's a very generous and friendly guy. I know he went through some health challenges a while ago and was in alot of pain. Maybe it was during this period and he wasn't able to use his lathe at the time. Have you tried again in communicating about a matching set. He's a stand up guy from my experience.
I know Nathan personally and he’s literally one of the most generous people I’ve ever met, his ferro rods are great, they throw molten showers. I’m not here to attack you in any way, just man to man. If you take this comment down I understand but there’s a million guys who have TH-cam channels that want free crap because they think they can promote someone’s business, here’s the straight truth. Why did you message him? Do what everyone else does, go on his eBay store and just buy one, sounds like an unnecessary slam on a guy who’s trying to run a business. Not to mention if you had a problem you should’ve direct messaged him to resolve instead of making a video about it, possibly causing someone financial hardship.
I have never had a problem with cheap ferro rods. At least Nathan was honest that it’s not the rod that makes the difference, it’s the user’s preparation of tinder and technique in producing sparks.
Any ferro rod you use expensive or cheap will end up with ridges if you use them enough. The Baylite rods are fine and are an excellent value. To me that Nathan 4071 is just too chunky. You can remove those ridges with some light filing. In the end who cares as long as you have a ferro rod with you and it starts a fire when you need it to.
You could try pulling the rod away from the tinder pile while bracing and keeping the scraper stationary, instead of stabilizing the rod and driving the scraper downward towards the tinder pile, where you run the risk of smashing and scattering it at the end of your sparking stroke.
I personally like the cheaper one just because it doesn't have the giant handles on it. I just like a simple Paracord handle and usually the spine of my knife unless i decide to get fancy in that case i have a piece of 1/2 square stock filed to a 90° on each corner with a Paracord handle. Great video and thanks for your honesty and letting people know that it just takes practice.
Thanks for that….I’ve bought a few ferro rods from nathan4071 and they are great, and so are the others from other vendors…..the thing about Nathan is he has longer ones of different sizes that others don’t offer. The bayite rods work the same…I subbed to your channel…your videos are getting better, thank you! Keep up the good work. The chatter marks on the rod make no difference, if your know what your doing….Nathan’s rods will do this also….
I've never, not once had a problem starting a fire with my Bayite. I think 99% of them come from China anyhow, so there's no sense in arguing which is best.
_I've got a plethora of ferrocerium rods including Nathan4071 rods. My technique is pretty much down to pat now but brother Nathan's rods do have a nice soft easy to scrape mishmetal. They give off a gob of molten sparks. I have several of his rods and the only real competitor mixture wise is those orange handled ones on ebay for $5. They have a similar soft mishmetal but don't come in the variety or with the custom handles that Nathan makes. I like Nathan as a person and his custom rods and strikers are excellent._
I'm a UK wood turner & those handles take will be an easy task for any local turner to you, just ask. ( Noo Yoik?) Also when you make cleaning passes on your rod, you can do so gently into the bundle, then when you do strike sparks, the extra shavings will also ignite & help the fat wood on it's way.
Hate the fanboys not the product. Valuable lesson from this vid. Nathan ferro rods aren't accessible to anyone in the world especially in Asia while Bayite is but I dont have any of them. What I have are the Chinese versions. Gotta work with what you can get your hands on and afford. Low quality rods will still spark using your fire scrapers. I never really liked any youtube vid but I love the way you debunked those cult fanboys.
It just comes down to how much magnesium is present in the rod, making it harder or softer. There are pros and cons to having more or less magnesium, and different striking techniques work better with each as well. Nathan was honest and correct in stating that it comes down to technique. If one knows how to use a ferro rod and striker properly, they can start a fire with essentially any type of rod and striker if both are functional.
It stays sharp. thats the big part. Needle files work pretty well too. I use one as a ferro striker/ emergency sharpener. The lathe bit should be hard enough to sharpen knives too though.
Great video. I use bayite, never have had any issues, and, I also have a couple of cheapies and they throw great sparks. I think technique and quality of the tinder bundle is more important than quality of the rod. Just my thoughts..
Eric there is nothing wrong with the Bayight ferro rods (except they are made in China!) I have Bayight 1/2 x 6 rods as well as higher priced rods. The biggest differences between ferro rods, besides the sizes, is that some are softer metal and others are harder metal. This affects the amount and quality of the sparks. Softer metals produce "gobs" of sparks, but get worn out "faster". IMO using a striker/scraper that has very sharp edges and it big enough to fit the hand is also another key element. And yes, there are many techniques to using a ferro rod.
You nailed it...composition of materials does make a difference. You'll see I have a video coming soon on Fiber Light products...it gets into rod composition a bit. Thanks for watching!
The truth..if that's what this is about is the softer the rod, the more chunks of metal come off. Yes, they don't last as long, the harder ones last longer. But personally, I'd take the softer rod 10 out of 10 times. The more chunks that are flying around and bursting into flames, the better chance of completing ignition, which means a better chance of saving your life.
Have used the Bayite for years, they work great. As you say. it's about the user's technic. Also, as far as I know any ferro will corrode and have to be maintained with a light coating of paint or oil after use.
I have many Bayite 5"- 6" ferro rods and I use the Bayite strikers and my rods are smooth as glass with no ridges what so ever. Bayite rods are DAMN GOOD ferro rods.
It all comes down to pressure and speed. People tend to get ridges near the tip of the rod, because the pressure between the striker and rod is less causing chatter. The pressure is less, because rod is a longer lever causing more strain on the wrist. Good technique, or bracing the tip of the rod on hard surface reduces ridging.
Ferro rod is a ferro rod is a ferro rod. Nathan's striker and rod handles are what makes it. I love my matching set. Could I have made them myself? sure, but I have better things to do with my time, plus, buying them from him, supports him. I'm sure he's tired of youtuber's emailing him and wanting free shit to test out. I asked him if I could "buy" a set with matching 4 inch handles with a 3/4 x 6inch long ferro rod. He made them over the weekend, and I had them a few days later.
@@outerlimitless Yeah, I don't know what your conversation was, all you posted was his side. I used to sell custom flashlights and post them in various configurations on instagram. I can't tell you how many times u-tubers contacted me wanting a free $90 flashlight in exchange for them doing a review. Seemed like one a day, and got very tiring.
@@CaptainRon1913 I asked him if I could buy a matching set because at the time he only had miss matched sets on eBay. I asked for nothing free and wanted a matched set as I intended on using it for a video. And I read his response exactly as he wrote it. It is what it is.
He probably gets tons of calls from TH-camrs asking for products/samples/freebees. The fact that most ferrocerium rods in the same class perform pretty much the same suggests that there is not a lot of incentive for him to be giving his product away other than increasing his public profile. Ergo, "I don't do social media".
Bayite rods are awesome ive used them alot and they shower sparks. Don't let ppl tell you they are crap. They get attached to what they use and ofcourse they want it to do the best. The thing is the only difference in any rod is hardness. I like soft rods and swedish rods are hard like (light my fire rods). Bayite is the sweet spot for me. They are fantastic.
I use a piece of an old, broken triangle shaped key-file that stayed connected to the file handle as firesteel striker. It even produces good shavings from an old, real hard block of magnesium, made in China and throws sparks like a volcano from every firesteel, even the cheap, real hard ones. On the other hand it is quite difficult to get shavings from any firesteel without throwing sparks. Even my old Fallknifen A1 with the back filed to a sharp 90° angle is not able to throw sparks or shaving magnesium like the file does. The piece of key file is about 6" long and half an inch in diameter, so packing size is not an issue.
The striking instrument makes the biggest difference in getting chunky and long glowing hot sparks. The steel comes last, it's not the magic bit as long as it is not tiny.
With them ridges in the Ferro rods they happened to everyone that actually uses their Ferro rods LOL. I found the best way to get them out as just take some sandpaper and send them down a little bit
Great Video! Yeah no difference in the ferro Rods. What amazes me is guys and their strikers. Let me give ya a huge tip an you'll thank me. You wanna make your own high quality striker like the Nathan? 2 words for ya! 1/4" Tool Bit! If you don't know what a tool bit is for I'll tell ya... it's used in the Tool and Die and machining industry. It's use on lathes and on mills (fly cutter) to cut and machine steel. They are hardend and square and make many different sizes. 1/4" , 3/8" and 1/2" and are about 2 1/2" long. You can simply make your own handle and glue in a 1/4" toolbit into it. Super cheap and easy and that's all he is doing. Nothing high tech or fancy or special. 1/4" toolbit is all that is needed. I should sell my own and glue them into Antler handles im sure guys would buy them.
I carry a bayite rod with a one inch gorilla tape handle on my belt every day. I've never had a problem lighting tinder with it that wasn't the tinder's fault.
Don't let brand/type fan boys kill your spirit. As many will tell you it does mostly come down to technique and preparation the Ferro rod used or composition have little to do with it. In fact based on research I have done, there are only about 3 factory's in the world that even make ferrocerrium, all in China and all have almost the same formula and recipe. Only difference is in amount of magnesium which dictates the hardness. So basically there is hard or soft and that is it
Thanks, and welcome to the hobby. Good luck...it gets expensive quick...haha. But very fun and lots to learn and enjoy. The best part is it forces you to get outside. Thanks for watching!
The handles ALWAYS come off. Better to use gorilla tape for handle, it can be used as emergency tinder. Also far cheaper. Uberleben also has fabulous ferro rods and are my first choice.
Very nice video 🎉 I’ve used other cheaper rods(not yours) they always seemed hard. I do have a Nathan4071 rod and it seems to me it’s softer. I’m no pro. He seems like a really nice person. Thanks for your comparison. I learned something today. 🇺🇸🔥
Generally speaking, if the ferro-rod was made in America, Canada or Western Europe, it is probably a good rod. IF the rod was made in Asia (china, indonesia, etc) or Eastern Europe, it is probably crap. Most Americans, Canadians and West Europeans still have pride in their work. most non-Japanese asians get paid 25-cents per day so they don't care about quality, seeking to make the rod as cheaply as possible.
Type in on ebay nathan4071 ferro rods. As rods come up. Check out the seller you will find him. Then scroll down to sellers other items it thst and you will get his selection. Happy hunting.
Save money and stay with Bayite rods. I have $40 rods that don't work any better than a $11 Bayite from Ebay. Always get them with pre-drilled holes for a lanyard. Use a Ranger band to hold the striker and a small piece of fatwood, or cotton balls with vaseline on it in a small plastic bag, onto the rod. A neat little package that will just about guarantee a fire. It could save your life if out in the woods and become injured or lost. Thanks for the great comparison.
David West uses bayite, so no need to pay more! Plus how many places make ferro rods? Nathan is getting his from the same sources. Also, the striker, while looking nice and working well looks to bulky for me when a knife spine works well, or any number of slim materials.
There is two types of Ferrocerium Rods Ferro Rods are made from Iron , Magnesium , and Cerium The more Iron the harder the Ferro ROD Nathan 4071 has the less Iron Ferro Rods and since they are softer they throw more sparks ! As for the Bayite I have no clue what the Iron content is , it may be the same as Nathan 4071 and it may not . I have both hard and soft , the hard last longer but the soft Nathan 4071 ROD throws more sparks
im one of ur subscribers and i agree with u all the way. a firesteel is a firesteel. i think the only differences out there is size. maybe size does matter!! but i buy the rods like bayite and i have more expensive rods and my bayite worked for me actually better with more sparks a bigger shower. this happened every time for me comparing two similar sized rods. i think its all technique tho when the dust settles. i love ur channel and brush the haters off for their only job is to hate and cause disruption and conflict. never ever listen to them and honestly with ur channel if u get haters and its just ridiculous just fire even harder back and shut that shit down!!!be well be safe and thank you for ur energy and wonderful channel. i live in the hood and we know how to handle haters. but im a closet outdoorsman!! thank you!!!
Thanks man, I appreciate it. I don't let the haters get to me...it's part of the business I guess! But yeah, it's definitely technique...I still need more practice, but like anything, the more you do the more you learn. Thanks for watching!
Dude.. you make great videos. Don't bother with the people who think differently. Forget cheap or expensive fire starting equipment... In a survival situation, If you don't know how to make and use a bow drill.. all this is useless. Getting that fire is important. How and why and when is pointless. I could have the best ferro-rod in the market, but if I'm shivering and cold and nearly unconscious and I can't strike it... its useless to me. From what I know about Ferro rods, there are basically 2 types. One softer and one harder material one. Cerium is mixed with iron and a few other elements (magnesium and some other materials) to give its characteristics. Softer ones will give off great sparks but wear out faster while harder ferro rods create less sparks but will last longer. Don't think any of this matters. What matters is how you use that ferrocerium rod. Brilliant video btw. I have just ordered Light my fire fire steel ferrorod. Have 3 of the Bayites and a few local ones that were less than 5 dollars.
Ignore those internet trolling keyboard ninja warrior, If it work, it works. I have the exact same rod for years but I use a Corona carbide sharpener (Corona AC 8300) as a scrapper. I cut the sharpener/scrapper in half and drilled a new hole on the handle for a lanyard to the rod.
The Bayite is good if used correctly. And I have many as I can stock up for a rainy day. I would rather have a case of Bayite set back _____ than two or 3 of the $$$$ ones.
I use the bayite in both that 6" and the 2 hole 1" model that i make survivorcord bracelets with. They're excellent and haven't failed me yet. Even the tiny ones last forever, if you properly bank your fires i would say it could last years of survival use. Dont buy into the gimic ferro is ferro
How to use a Ferro rod properly is something everyone who spend any amount of time in the wild should learn along with a few other methods of fire staring like Flint and steel, friction and chemical reactions and more. For me it's not as much about Quality and more about knowing how to use it.
I have used "budget" rods for years, including Bayite rods. I've never had a problem. There is something to be said for the fun of having decorative handles, but as far as the actual function of the rods, I don't see much, if any difference.
Yeah, from what I have been told by people more in the business there are 2 main types of rod composition, and almost all of which are sourced from the same place for the most part.
My handle is not that decorative. Some homemade firecord wrapped halfway down. and same for a lanyard/ tether. If I lose my tinder cord and its wet out, theres more right on the rod. Until then, it gives great grip. I use mostly just the tip of the rod and it gets sharpened like a pencil. I try not to get too much of the coating off. saltwater and high humidity are the only things that will kill a giant ferro. Not like you cant put oil, wax or nail polish on it. Not that ferro's oxidization is all that quick either
Hmmm I just got some cheap 1/2in rods went out in the woods cut a branch drilled it and stuck it on the rods a bit of personalization and bam matching stuff = cost my time.
Great video and wonderful information.. I have the cheaper rods.. I have never had a rod that didn’t spark.. most of the time I’m striking dry grass, hay or fuel
I have the same Bayite ferro rod and it works great, this reminds me of a blind taste test that was conducted years back , college students said Grey Goose Vodka was the best they won’t drink anything but Grey Goose guess what brand was not preferred during the blind taste test, yep Grey Goose 👍😁
I've owned many over the years and my experience is some are MUCH better than others in terms of actually throwing sparks. I have a bayite and it's fine. A couple of "custom" ferro rods with fancy handles have been so-so. Some of my best ferro rods have been freebies. Haha. The light my Fire rods are good but I like larger ones, but not too big. I like a 5 inch either 3/8 or 1/2 inch diameter. I agree with Nathan that technique is crucial and with you that a good striker makes a huge difference. Great vid as usual Eric. I enjoy your vids!!
I have had a fair number of rods too...but mostly cheap ones and 3 or 4 decent ones. All in all, I do love the 1/2" diameter. I bought the 6" bayite, but I would get the 5 1/2" if I were to buy another one. Thanks for watching!
Interesting! I don't see the point of a striker to be honest. Unless I washed away on an island nake with only my ferrorod, I'll always have something with an edge that can strike. IME, back of a knife of folder saw for example are actually much better striker than other options. Rods typically come with a basic striker (Just in case I guess). But carrying a separate one that's as big as the rod itself? Not convinced!
One thing I found interesting is the ceramic fire rod striker kinda looks like a guitar pick on a leather necklace looks like it should work great if the ceramic has a good edge 🤔. Scrapers we don’t need no stinking scrapers that’s why I have a sharp spine on my knife. Personally I wouldn’t want to carry that scraper around.
I use a needle file that doubles as an emergence axe and knife sharpener. As long as it has a sharp edge, it will throw a spark. I think it all depends on personal comfort and what gives each person better control. They all work well, but the human variety is probably the biggest difference in strikers.
I have used a Baylite for a while they work great. The thing with ferro rods the most important is technique. The most important thing to remember is thin wood burns easy. I make a few feather sticks all I ever needed in the rain. What gets me after about 40 years in the woods all over the place in boy scouts to the military most fires I started with matches. Why make things harder then they need be.
I agree...preparing the wood is critical. Spending the time to properly process and prepare the wood can make all the difference in the success of getting the fire lit.
The slow motion showed the Bayite rod did a little better IMHO. I have the Nathan rod and am very satisfied with it. Going to order two more Nathan rods today.
Check out, "Ferro Rod Techniques from a Green Beret | Gray Bearded Green Beret", He has a great technic.Pull the rod while keeping the scraper stationary.
People are being ridiculous. If you don't want ridges, use your scraper at a 45°angel or tilt your ferro rod at a 45° angle. And if you don't believe me, NATHAN taught me that n he was spot on. Ignore the trolls.
I have a shitload of 1/4" tool steel blanks intended for machining, and the edges are as razor sharp as a 90 degree edge can get, so I bet they would make fantastic strikers! And then at 12:55 he shows a close up and it has the same dimension markings as my tool steel blanks!😄
Concerning the ridges... My bet is that the ingredients are hot poured into a down a shaft to cool & be cut..., therefore the striking process shows the layered composition of the rod... Clean up with sandpaper, file or slow striker motions to wear them back down to smooth rod...
Awesome video awesome test on the Ferro rod did you know small wood lathe inexpensive now did you ever think about picking one up and making your own handles I've been kicking that idea around for a little bit and I think I am going to pick up a small wood lathe I start making my handles. you don't need a large wood lathe to do that kind of work. With this video you definitely proved your point well done
Thanks...yeah, I think making handles would be quite enjoyable...I love anything to do with creation and a lathe has been on my wish list for ever. Never quite pulled the trigger though
I love how he isn't scared to admit that his technique was flawed and he corrected it over time and pointed out what was wrong at the same time he's educating well learning himself great video
That's what earned my sub...aswell as people hating on him so I will see whats up.
Gracias, Amigo!!
I've bought Bayite ferro rods off both eBay and Amazon. All of them throw sparks just fine, so I'm good with the cheap stuff.
I would try not to worry too much about the comments that you're doing it wrong, or wasting your money. If you're getting sparks off your ferro rod, you can't be doing too much wrong, and you haven't wasted your money if you're getting what you need - sparks.
There is a phenomenon called "perceived value" where we actually believe things that cost more are more valuable.. The same bottle of wine will taste "different" to a person who is charged $200.00 opposed to $10.
So true...exactly the case and very well said. Thanks for the comment!
This has become my favorite channel. Your honest, sincere and have a teachers heart. You don’t claim to be all-knowing, but your knowledge is extremely helpful. Keep up the great work.
Thank you...I appreciate that. I truly try to look at things objectively and produce videos based upon my experience and to relate it to how it might apply to others. Sometimes long winded, yes...but I try to be complete! Thanks for watching!
Any of them will work just fine. I've bought a lot of different ones and they've all worked.
The people telling you that you wasted your money more than likely wasted theirs buying pretty much the same thing with a handle added.
I agree with this. No matter what kinda ferro rod I'm using, a 10 dollar Amazon rod or a $65 REI Premium job, the striker seems to be more important. My technique and the quality of my striking edge make the biggest difference in my experience.
Super glue a small flathead nail to the end of the ferro rod for a full scrap stroke or drive the nail into the edge of the fat wood for a base platform. Use a drill bit the same size as the nailhead and drill an indentation into the bottom of the ferro rod. Place the indentation on the nailhead for stability
That's a good fukkin idea lol. Thank you
You were holding the striker wrong. Hold it flat , then slightly lift the back edge. Maybe Nathan was having an off day. We all do. He’s a really super great guy!
agreed Dom, proper strike technique almost eliminates chatter. Nathan is a great guy and was probably having an off day.
@@waveman0 Absolutley!
I use Bayite Ferro rod all the time. Don't think Nathen Ferro rods are any better. You just paying for him to put a handle on it. Don't let people fool you into believing there is a difference. Keep up the good work brother
Those are probably Bayite rods he is using and marking them up with a wood handle..Let's be real..
Agreed and all due respect , he didn't create his own ferro rod company with a new magical chemistry . Strikers made from ceramic and high speed tool steel used with lathes is not exactly rocket science . I did it over 40 years ago .
@@QuantumPyrite_88.9 Indeed..
@@makerofmanythings8447 This ferro rod worship got stupid years ago and it's amusing how many individuals think using a ferro rod requires talent . Zippo lighter + spare flints with extra fuel in an eye drops bottle and common book matches . The ferro is for backup . 3 ways to start a fire and try starting a fire in freezing rain with a ferro rod after spending 10 minutes prepping the tinder . ATB
@@QuantumPyrite_88.9 Thats NOT me, you've got it backwards bro, all I carry is a fatwood farro rod firestarter with 6 foot of firecord that I make. all of the rest of the fire making implements are for yuppie, snowflakes, but that's just me, with all do respect.
I'm just missing with you bro, you make a fire with whatever you have on you and consider yourself lucky.
Couple things:
1. Nathan4071 seems like a really nice guy. I just bought a striker and 8x1 inch rod with handle and he is making me a matching set. What's my secret? I was flexible about when its done or what it looks like... he is a busy guy, but he produces good quality product. He won't have time for a custom job, but that does not mean you can't get a matching set from him if you are flexible with its looks and delivery schedule.
2. As far as ferro rods go, the correct one for you is the one you have with you. I got a little 1 inch rod and striker threaded on my shoe laces, why? Because it is with me all the time and using that would be much easier than trying to get bow drill going when stranded on an empty island.
3. Why should anyone buy the premium rod like he 1"x8" from Nathan? Basically if you either want one or you noticed that you have FAD (Firesteel acquisition disorder). If you keep buying fire stills, because this on is longer and that one if fatter and the that one is something else... just get yourself the biggest, badest set you can get and quench your thirst.
I told him I would take any matching set he had. Apparently not interested...
@@outerlimitless Don't know... may be because I bought the 1"x8" rod for $125 it made a difference??? Either way, he seems like a great guy.
You maybe got him on an off day. I have had him drill holes for me in ferro rods. He made me a set.i cannot speak more highly of Nathan. He's a very generous and friendly guy. I know he went through some health challenges a while ago and was in alot of pain. Maybe it was during this period and he wasn't able to use his lathe at the time. Have you tried again in communicating about a matching set. He's a stand up guy from my experience.
I know Nathan personally and he’s literally one of the most generous people I’ve ever met, his ferro rods are great, they throw molten showers. I’m not here to attack you in any way, just man to man. If you take this comment down I understand but there’s a million guys who have TH-cam channels that want free crap because they think they can promote someone’s business, here’s the straight truth. Why did you message him? Do what everyone else does, go on his eBay store and just buy one, sounds like an unnecessary slam on a guy who’s trying to run a business. Not to mention if you had a problem you should’ve direct messaged him to resolve instead of making a video about it, possibly causing someone financial hardship.
I don't remove comments. I have never removed a single one.
Actually, that's not entirely true...I removed some that were ads that companies placed in my comments and I deleted those.
I have never had a problem with cheap ferro rods. At least Nathan was honest that it’s not the rod that makes the difference, it’s the user’s preparation of tinder and technique in producing sparks.
Bro link for bayite
I give him credit for being honest.
Just make sure you have a good striker. The striker is VERY important.
The nice sharp spine is my jam! I like a good squared off knife spine for sure.
Any ferro rod you use expensive or cheap will end up with ridges if you use them enough. The Baylite rods are fine and are an excellent value. To me that Nathan 4071 is just too chunky. You can remove those ridges with some light filing. In the end who cares as long as you have a ferro rod with you and it starts a fire when you need it to.
You could try pulling the rod away from the tinder pile while bracing and keeping the scraper stationary, instead of stabilizing the rod and driving the scraper downward towards the tinder pile, where you run the risk of smashing and scattering it at the end of your sparking stroke.
Underrated comment here
Usually get better results dragging the rod and not the striker
Like you say the sparks stay closer and are better controlled
@@lordofdespair9273 🙏🏼🙏🏼🤙🏼🤙🏼
Keep at it bro your doing a great job, you'll always get the detractors as when one start winging its usually followed by more...great vid..
I personally like the cheaper one just because it doesn't have the giant handles on it. I just like a simple Paracord handle and usually the spine of my knife unless i decide to get fancy in that case i have a piece of 1/2 square stock filed to a 90° on each corner with a Paracord handle. Great video and thanks for your honesty and letting people know that it just takes practice.
Thanks for that….I’ve bought a few ferro rods from nathan4071 and they are great, and so are the others from other vendors…..the thing about Nathan is he has longer ones of different sizes that others don’t offer. The bayite rods work the same…I subbed to your channel…your videos are getting better, thank you! Keep up the good work. The chatter marks on the rod make no difference, if your know what your doing….Nathan’s rods will do this also….
I've never, not once had a problem starting a fire with my Bayite. I think 99% of them come from China anyhow, so there's no sense in arguing which is best.
You are correct about the source. There's really only 2 main types of rods and most are from China.
I had no idea there were Ferro Rod Rivalries! Always had good experiences using no-name brands and my EDC knife.
That scraper is a high speed steel tool bit for a metal lathe. Stick it in a piece of broomstick and your are done.
More or less what Nathan 4071 does. With some lathe work I guess.
_I've got a plethora of ferrocerium rods including Nathan4071 rods. My technique is pretty much down to pat now but brother Nathan's rods do have a nice soft easy to scrape mishmetal. They give off a gob of molten sparks. I have several of his rods and the only real competitor mixture wise is those orange handled ones on ebay for $5. They have a similar soft mishmetal but don't come in the variety or with the custom handles that Nathan makes. I like Nathan as a person and his custom rods and strikers are excellent._
I'm a UK wood turner & those handles take will be an easy task for any local turner to you, just ask. ( Noo Yoik?) Also when you make cleaning passes on your rod, you can do so gently into the bundle, then when you do strike sparks, the extra shavings will also ignite & help the fat wood on it's way.
I have the same 6x1/2" Ferro you have. Yes it all comes down to technique, the scraper and your tinder. Mine has worked great.
Hate the fanboys not the product. Valuable lesson from this vid. Nathan ferro rods aren't accessible to anyone in the world especially in Asia while Bayite is but I dont have any of them. What I have are the Chinese versions. Gotta work with what you can get your hands on and afford. Low quality rods will still spark using your fire scrapers.
I never really liked any youtube vid but I love the way you debunked those cult fanboys.
It just comes down to how much magnesium is present in the rod, making it harder or softer.
There are pros and cons to having more or less magnesium, and different striking techniques work better with each as well.
Nathan was honest and correct in stating that it comes down to technique. If one knows how to use a ferro rod and striker properly, they can start a fire with essentially any type of rod and striker if both are functional.
I don't give 2 craps on your technique. Did you make a fire? Then you have the perfect technique. Great vid.
If anyone wants to make their own striker, the square stock can be made with a HSS lathe blank. It is very hard and sharp.
It stays sharp. thats the big part. Needle files work pretty well too. I use one as a ferro striker/ emergency sharpener. The lathe bit should be hard enough to sharpen knives too though.
LOL good job answering the haters with evidence. Genuine curiosity always wins. A+
Great video. I use bayite, never have had any issues, and, I also have a couple of cheapies and they throw great sparks. I think technique and quality of the tinder bundle is more important than quality of the rod. Just my thoughts..
You'res is the best Ferrell fof, using a tungsten strike is my go to.. thx for you're honesty 😮😅
Eric there is nothing wrong with the Bayight ferro rods (except they are made in China!)
I have Bayight 1/2 x 6 rods as well as higher priced rods.
The biggest differences between ferro rods, besides the sizes, is that some are softer metal and others are harder metal.
This affects the amount and quality of the sparks. Softer metals produce "gobs" of sparks, but get worn out "faster".
IMO using a striker/scraper that has very sharp edges and it big enough to fit the hand is also another key element.
And yes, there are many techniques to using a ferro rod.
You nailed it...composition of materials does make a difference. You'll see I have a video coming soon on Fiber Light products...it gets into rod composition a bit. Thanks for watching!
Would you say the bayite is hard or soft?
The truth..if that's what this is about is the softer the rod, the more chunks of metal come off. Yes, they don't last as long, the harder ones last longer. But personally, I'd take the softer rod 10 out of 10 times. The more chunks that are flying around and bursting into flames, the better chance of completing ignition, which means a better chance of saving your life.
I prefer the softer ferro rods...I think more chunks is better potential for success.
A very fair comparison I feel. I think though that I would buy the one you use but with 4071’s striker.
Dude sounds like Philip Fry from Futurama! That just makes my day! Great review too.
Have used the Bayite for years, they work great. As you say. it's about the user's technic. Also, as far as I know any ferro will corrode and have to be maintained with a light coating of paint or oil after use.
I have many Bayite 5"- 6" ferro rods and I use the Bayite strikers and my rods are smooth as glass with no ridges what so ever. Bayite rods are DAMN GOOD ferro rods.
It all comes down to pressure and speed. People tend to get ridges near the tip of the rod, because the pressure between the striker and rod is less causing chatter. The pressure is less, because rod is a longer lever causing more strain on the wrist. Good technique, or bracing the tip of the rod on hard surface reduces ridging.
I agree...the Bayite ferro rods are great. I use mine a ton...it's my go-to for sure.
Have you tried the small ceramic strikers? Personally my favorite one yet.
@@familypotts8709 no, but I'd be interested. How do you find them?
@@familypotts8709 I haven't tried them yet I'll have to give it a try. Thanks.
I love my bayite! Love the size and it feels substantial and throws great sparks!
The Bayite definitely solid...it just performs...I have used mine endlessly. Thanks for watching!
Ferro rod is a ferro rod is a ferro rod. Nathan's striker and rod handles are what makes it. I love my matching set. Could I have made them myself? sure, but I have better things to do with my time, plus, buying them from him, supports him. I'm sure he's tired of youtuber's emailing him and wanting free shit to test out. I asked him if I could "buy" a set with matching 4 inch handles with a 3/4 x 6inch long ferro rod. He made them over the weekend, and I had them a few days later.
Yep, I asked him if I could buy a matching set too... he wasn't interested... that was his response that I read
@@outerlimitless Yeah, I don't know what your conversation was, all you posted was his side. I used to sell custom flashlights and post them in various configurations on instagram. I can't tell you how many times u-tubers contacted me wanting a free $90 flashlight in exchange for them doing a review. Seemed like one a day, and got very tiring.
@@CaptainRon1913 I asked him if I could buy a matching set because at the time he only had miss matched sets on eBay. I asked for nothing free and wanted a matched set as I intended on using it for a video. And I read his response exactly as he wrote it. It is what it is.
My little 3 dollar ferro rod combined with my camillus titanium knive is unmatched,thats been awsome for over the last two yrs
Just bought the budget ones in a pair and the match too😂 Forget the trolls brother. Love the vid. Great work.
He probably gets tons of calls from TH-camrs asking for products/samples/freebees. The fact that most ferrocerium rods in the same class perform pretty much the same suggests that there is not a lot of incentive for him to be giving his product away other than increasing his public profile. Ergo, "I don't do social media".
Bayite rods are awesome ive used them alot and they shower sparks. Don't let ppl tell you they are crap. They get attached to what they use and ofcourse they want it to do the best. The thing is the only difference in any rod is hardness. I like soft rods and swedish rods are hard like (light my fire rods). Bayite is the sweet spot for me. They are fantastic.
Definitely...I have has great luck with my Bayite and it performs as well as most of my other mischmetal rods...much softer than a true Ferro rod.
I use Bayite and love them
I use a piece of an old, broken triangle shaped key-file that stayed connected to the file handle as firesteel striker.
It even produces good shavings from an old, real hard block of magnesium, made in China and throws sparks like a volcano from every firesteel, even the cheap, real hard ones.
On the other hand it is quite difficult to get shavings from any firesteel without throwing sparks.
Even my old Fallknifen A1 with the back filed to a sharp 90° angle is not able to throw sparks or shaving magnesium like the file does. The piece of key file is about 6" long and half an inch in diameter, so packing size is not an issue.
This video makes me appreciate a Fine Whine!
Nathan is full of it! I didn't see any differences in performance
Appreciate you objectively imparting a reality check for our social media tweaked world. All too common to get swept up in hype these days
The striking instrument makes the biggest difference in getting chunky and long glowing hot sparks. The steel comes last, it's not the magic bit as long as it is not tiny.
Great Video and Channel! Any chance on doing a product review of our Firestarter?
With them ridges in the Ferro rods they happened to everyone that actually uses their Ferro rods LOL. I found the best way to get them out as just take some sandpaper and send them down a little bit
That or a file, save the shavings and put them in your tinder kit
I find I don't mind the ridges, they almost help in a way. When you hit them they remove more material. Just my opinion.
Point being, don't overpay for the same thing. 😄
Also if you can bring a rod and a striker, you can bring a lighter.
Ya but if your lighter gets wet, runs out of fuel etc. you will want a backup
Great Video! Yeah no difference in the ferro Rods. What amazes me is guys and their strikers. Let me give ya a huge tip an you'll thank me. You wanna make your own high quality striker like the Nathan? 2 words for ya! 1/4" Tool Bit! If you don't know what a tool bit is for I'll tell ya... it's used in the Tool and Die and machining industry. It's use on lathes and on mills (fly cutter) to cut and machine steel. They are hardend and square and make many different sizes. 1/4" , 3/8" and 1/2" and are about 2 1/2" long. You can simply make your own handle and glue in a 1/4" toolbit into it. Super cheap and easy and that's all he is doing. Nothing high tech or fancy or special. 1/4" toolbit is all that is needed. I should sell my own and glue them into Antler handles im sure guys would buy them.
I carry a bayite rod with a one inch gorilla tape handle on my belt every day. I've never had a problem lighting tinder with it that wasn't the tinder's fault.
Don't let brand/type fan boys kill your spirit. As many will tell you it does mostly come down to technique and preparation the Ferro rod used or composition have little to do with it. In fact based on research I have done, there are only about 3 factory's in the world that even make ferrocerrium, all in China and all have almost the same formula and recipe. Only difference is in amount of magnesium which dictates the hardness. So basically there is hard or soft and that is it
I use Eric x and Coughlans ferr9 r9ds and they work great
It looks to me you cant go wrong with either ferro rod! Very informative thankyou im interested in getting started in this hobby keepem coming
Thanks, and welcome to the hobby. Good luck...it gets expensive quick...haha. But very fun and lots to learn and enjoy. The best part is it forces you to get outside. Thanks for watching!
The handles ALWAYS come off. Better to use gorilla tape for handle, it can be used as emergency tinder. Also far cheaper. Uberleben also has fabulous ferro rods and are my first choice.
Very nice video 🎉 I’ve used other cheaper rods(not yours) they always seemed hard. I do have a Nathan4071 rod and it seems to me it’s softer. I’m no pro. He seems like a really nice person. Thanks for your comparison. I learned something today. 🇺🇸🔥
Never had a problem with a decent sized ferro rod.
Generally speaking, if the ferro-rod was made in America, Canada or Western Europe, it is probably a good rod.
IF the rod was made in Asia (china, indonesia, etc) or Eastern Europe, it is probably crap.
Most Americans, Canadians and West Europeans still have pride in their work. most non-Japanese asians get paid 25-cents per day so they don't care about quality, seeking to make the rod as cheaply as possible.
I'm not aware of a single US rod manufacturer... pretty sure almost all rods are made in one of a small few international manufacturers
Where can I buy a Nathan Ferris rod? Do he have a website? Nothing came up on eBay.
Type in on ebay nathan4071 ferro rods. As rods come up. Check out the seller you will find him. Then scroll down to sellers other items it thst and you will get his selection. Happy hunting.
Hit that. Spelling mistake
Save money and stay with Bayite rods. I have $40 rods that don't work any better than a $11 Bayite from Ebay. Always get them with pre-drilled holes for a lanyard. Use a Ranger band to hold the striker and a small piece of fatwood, or cotton balls with vaseline on it in a small plastic bag, onto the rod. A neat little package that will just about guarantee a fire. It could save your life if out in the woods and become injured or lost. Thanks for the great comparison.
David West uses bayite, so no need to pay more! Plus how many places make ferro rods? Nathan is getting his from the same sources. Also, the striker, while looking nice and working well looks to bulky for me when a knife spine works well, or any number of slim materials.
The best Fero rod is the one that works when you need it.
There is two types of Ferrocerium Rods
Ferro Rods are made from Iron , Magnesium , and Cerium
The more Iron the harder the Ferro ROD
Nathan 4071 has the less Iron Ferro Rods and since they are softer they throw more sparks !
As for the Bayite I have no clue what the Iron content is , it may be the same as Nathan 4071 and it may not .
I have both hard and soft , the hard last longer but the soft Nathan 4071 ROD throws more sparks
For me between the two, the tidier ferro rod is more appealing for space reasons.
im one of ur subscribers and i agree with u all the way. a firesteel is a firesteel. i think the only differences out there is size. maybe size does matter!! but i buy the rods like bayite and i have more expensive rods and my bayite worked for me actually better with more sparks a bigger shower. this happened every time for me comparing two similar sized rods. i think its all technique tho when the dust settles. i love ur channel and brush the haters off for their only job is to hate and cause disruption and conflict. never ever listen to them and honestly with ur channel if u get haters and its just ridiculous just fire even harder back and shut that shit down!!!be well be safe and thank you for ur energy and wonderful channel. i live in the hood and we know how to handle haters. but im a closet outdoorsman!! thank you!!!
Thanks man, I appreciate it. I don't let the haters get to me...it's part of the business I guess! But yeah, it's definitely technique...I still need more practice, but like anything, the more you do the more you learn. Thanks for watching!
Dude.. you make great videos. Don't bother with the people who think differently. Forget cheap or expensive fire starting equipment... In a survival situation, If you don't know how to make and use a bow drill.. all this is useless. Getting that fire is important. How and why and when is pointless. I could have the best ferro-rod in the market, but if I'm shivering and cold and nearly unconscious and I can't strike it... its useless to me.
From what I know about Ferro rods, there are basically 2 types. One softer and one harder material one. Cerium is mixed with iron and a few other elements (magnesium and some other materials) to give its characteristics. Softer ones will give off great sparks but wear out faster while harder ferro rods create less sparks but will last longer. Don't think any of this matters. What matters is how you use that ferrocerium rod.
Brilliant video btw. I have just ordered Light my fire fire steel ferrorod. Have 3 of the Bayites and a few local ones that were less than 5 dollars.
Ignore those internet trolling keyboard ninja warrior, If it work, it works. I have the exact same rod for years but I use a Corona carbide sharpener (Corona AC 8300) as a scrapper. I cut the sharpener/scrapper in half and drilled a new hole on the handle for a lanyard to the rod.
The Bayite is good if used correctly. And I have many as I can stock up for a rainy day. I would rather have a case of Bayite set back _____ than two or 3 of the $$$$ ones.
I use the bayite in both that 6" and the 2 hole 1" model that i make survivorcord bracelets with. They're excellent and haven't failed me yet. Even the tiny ones last forever, if you properly bank your fires i would say it could last years of survival use. Dont buy into the gimic ferro is ferro
How to use a Ferro rod properly is something everyone who spend any amount of time in the wild should learn along with a few other methods of fire staring like Flint and steel, friction and chemical reactions and more. For me it's not as much about Quality and more about knowing how to use it.
A short peice of a hacksaw blade makes a good striker for the ferro rod as well.
I have used "budget" rods for years, including Bayite rods. I've never had a problem. There is something to be said for the fun of having decorative handles, but as far as the actual function of the rods, I don't see much, if any difference.
Yeah, from what I have been told by people more in the business there are 2 main types of rod composition, and almost all of which are sourced from the same place for the most part.
My handle is not that decorative. Some homemade firecord wrapped halfway down. and same for a lanyard/ tether. If I lose my tinder cord and its wet out, theres more right on the rod. Until then, it gives great grip.
I use mostly just the tip of the rod and it gets sharpened like a pencil. I try not to get too much of the coating off. saltwater and high humidity are the only things that will kill a giant ferro. Not like you cant put oil, wax or nail polish on it. Not that ferro's oxidization is all that quick either
Hmmm I just got some cheap 1/2in rods went out in the woods cut a branch drilled it and stuck it on the rods a bit of personalization and bam matching stuff = cost my time.
Bayite is as good if not better than any fero rod I have used at any price. Great vid. Thanks!!!
My Bayite is still my go-to most of the time.
I was amazed at the "Nathan" rod, but the striker is FAR more important then the rod itself.
Great video and wonderful information.. I have the cheaper rods.. I have never had a rod that didn’t spark.. most of the time I’m striking dry grass, hay or fuel
I have the same Bayite ferro rod and it works great, this reminds me of a blind taste test that was conducted years back , college students said Grey Goose Vodka was the best they won’t drink anything but Grey Goose guess what brand was not preferred during the blind taste test, yep Grey Goose 👍😁
I've owned many over the years and my experience is some are MUCH better than others in terms of actually throwing sparks. I have a bayite and it's fine. A couple of "custom" ferro rods with fancy handles have been so-so. Some of my best ferro rods have been freebies. Haha. The light my Fire rods are good but I like larger ones, but not too big. I like a 5 inch either 3/8 or 1/2 inch diameter. I agree with Nathan that technique is crucial and with you that a good striker makes a huge difference. Great vid as usual Eric. I enjoy your vids!!
I have had a fair number of rods too...but mostly cheap ones and 3 or 4 decent ones. All in all, I do love the 1/2" diameter. I bought the 6" bayite, but I would get the 5 1/2" if I were to buy another one. Thanks for watching!
I just sliced my finger open with my brand new mora companion trying to chop wood 😬☹️
Bay lite works for me .. I’f I decide to put a handle on it some white tail antler and some 5000 psi epoxy cement is all it will take
Nice, well done, thank`s!
Great video my friend 👍👍 thank you for your time and I learned a lot !! All the best from Alabama 🙂
Interesting!
I don't see the point of a striker to be honest. Unless I washed away on an island nake with only my ferrorod, I'll always have something with an edge that can strike. IME, back of a knife of folder saw for example are actually much better striker than other options. Rods typically come with a basic striker (Just in case I guess). But carrying a separate one that's as big as the rod itself? Not convinced!
One thing I found interesting is the ceramic fire rod striker kinda looks like a guitar pick on a leather necklace looks like it should work great if the ceramic has a good edge 🤔. Scrapers we don’t need no stinking scrapers that’s why I have a sharp spine on my knife. Personally I wouldn’t want to carry that scraper around.
I'm not a huge scraper fan, but it depends. Bushcraft on a Sunday afternoon...sure. Deep mountain trek...no way man!
I use a needle file that doubles as an emergence axe and knife sharpener. As long as it has a sharp edge, it will throw a spark. I think it all depends on personal comfort and what gives each person better control. They all work well, but the human variety is probably the biggest difference in strikers.
He doesn’t do social media?? I came across his channel to get to this one....
The actual comparison begins at 8 min. This could have been a 5 minute video. But it does contain good useful information.
I have used a Baylite for a while they work great. The thing with ferro rods the most important is technique.
The most important thing to remember is thin wood burns easy. I make a few feather sticks all I ever needed in the rain.
What gets me after about 40 years in the woods all over the place in boy scouts to the military most fires I started with matches. Why make things harder then they need be.
I agree...preparing the wood is critical. Spending the time to properly process and prepare the wood can make all the difference in the success of getting the fire lit.
The slow motion showed the Bayite rod did a little better IMHO. I have the Nathan rod and am very satisfied with it. Going to order two more Nathan rods today.
Set em straight!
Check out, "Ferro Rod Techniques from a Green Beret | Gray Bearded Green Beret", He has a great technic.Pull the rod while keeping the scraper stationary.
People are being ridiculous. If you don't want ridges, use your scraper at a 45°angel or tilt your ferro rod at a 45° angle. And if you don't believe me, NATHAN taught me that n he was spot on. Ignore the trolls.
Well done.,they look about the same to me....Thanks for the review.
Idk if ferro rods are a survival skill per say..more like a novelty considering its bought at the store, like a lighter
I have a shitload of 1/4" tool steel blanks intended for machining, and the edges are as razor sharp as a 90 degree edge can get, so I bet they would make fantastic strikers!
And then at 12:55 he shows a close up and it has the same dimension markings as my tool steel blanks!😄
Concerning the ridges...
My bet is that the ingredients are hot poured into a down a shaft to cool & be cut..., therefore the striking process shows the layered composition of the rod...
Clean up with sandpaper, file or slow striker motions to wear them back down to smooth rod...
It's a fricken ferro rod. Who cares as long as it does what it is supposed to do. To me yah price talks great video
Don't listen to other ppl.....their opinion don't matter....do what works best for you
Awesome video awesome test on the Ferro rod did you know small wood lathe inexpensive now did you ever think about picking one up and making your own handles I've been kicking that idea around for a little bit and I think I am going to pick up a small wood lathe I start making my handles. you don't need a large wood lathe to do that kind of work. With this video you definitely proved your point well done
Thanks...yeah, I think making handles would be quite enjoyable...I love anything to do with creation and a lathe has been on my wish list for ever. Never quite pulled the trigger though