Using a ferro rod is all about technique, that in 2021 is learned by watching good videos and then practicing starting fires. I went out today and bought my first ferro rod for $3.99, after watching about 2 hours worth of bushcraft videos on how to use them. It took me 3 minutes to start my first fire with one, on a paper towel. I then started my second fire on a piece of rotted softwood in about 2 minutes. $3.99 vs $60.00? $3.99 is working just fine for me.
For me it boils down to two simple questions. Does it work as good as it claims? Is it going to have a massive impact on being able to help me live in a real emergency? If the answers are yes, then its worth twice the asking price, because my life is certainly worth that and more! Great video, thanks!!
Chris - thanks for the video. Yes, it is pricey at $60, but a combustion source that is nearly 100% dead on reliable in a survival situation, I contend it is well worth the price. Also, I would rather give a U.S. company $60 for a great product than $25 to a Chinese company. Thanks for the video!
You said it. I didn't want to have to deal with the price do much in the video but I know the market and when there is that much gap people ARE going to bitch.
Buy ONCE cry ONCE! He came up with a awesome system, as a machinist I can see quality when I see it. It's a little pricey, but you'll only have to buy it once IMHO
You can make this yourself... one piece of copper tubing or steel a bolt a bit of sawing with a iron saw... 10 mins job... im going to make one this weekend...
The hardest part about doing a review like this is thinking the product is great but also knowing that 98.4% of the people watching it are going to have a stroke when they hear the price. But maybe that is something they need to see. Give your thoughts on the device and the price separately.
I had seen this product somewhere else and thought the exact same thing you did. "I have to get a couple of those." Then I found the site and saw the price. Too rich for my blood. It doesn't "solve" any problems it just makes things easier. I wonder if they could get the price down by selling it without the firesteel and without the tinder. The site lists tinder refills as $10 and the rod is prob close to $10 and no manual labor to put things together.
Here's the thing: I dont feel I personally NEED it, but I think if you laid all ferro-based firestarters out on a table and said "We're dropping you off in the jungle... You get to pick ONLY ONE".... people would choose this one every single time. At least, I think they would if they used it side by side.
+Leo McKee I think calling it "the Jessica of ______ will work as long as others have brought it up. Chris is "the sole determiner of the J- label" but saying the J-word does seem to make him perk up and listen and at least consider it as a reviewable item.. LOL, it worked this time to get a review and I am glad it did. How about it Chris? PREPAREDMIND101 Is this a new way of insuring a review of a product? Too Funny.
I have a 9 and 6 year old that have one for emergency reasons in their get home bag and for the price of cheap Nikes my sons can use this without any problem or worry. I appreciate the review. Just like all of your reviews I believe you are honest, to the point and I learn every time I watch them. Thanks
I'm 7 years late to this video, but I wanna say I get this product. There's the $100 BK9, then there's the $300+ BRK Bravo Crusader. Both work incredibly well, it all comes down to preference sometimes. That being said, $60 is quite steep...
Chris when you were hesitating to tell us how much it costs I was thinking to myself Oh crap this thing is going to be like $200. $60 for a life saving emergency piece of equipment is not a lot of money, it's perfect for a bug out bag. I think I would conserve it, and not pull it out of the bag every time I went out in the woods. You could make it even better if you put a misch metal rod in there, hell that would make it a weapon too. Mike
I'm not really into the survival thing, but this got my attention for a good two hours of your other videos!! You do a really good job presenting the material. I like how you show the packaging, unless you've lost it. You do seem to lose a lot of stuff. Lol! People like you are why they make lanyards! Good work.
Love the review and a great little peace of gear. Thinking out of the box made one great little fire starter. I will definitely be getting one. Two thumbs up on the review, just wish I had one for my trip in the Flint Hills today.
That was a great review of a great product. I had the same reaction when I saw their video and went to buy one on their web site. So before I invested 60.00 + dollars I just had to see a no BS review. Thanks.
That shit cost $70,,,,A ZipLock bag with some dry news paper and a Bic lighter in your bug out pack would accomplish the same emergency fire starting .... Smart is being effective without spending a bunch of money to be fashionable at the same time.
+jodopeg You're missing the genius logic. By the time the SHTF, your money will be no use so you must spend it all before then and then sit around, preparedly, waiting for it to happen. ta daa
Agree, too many people rely on "gear". Knowledge is what will save you. Gear gets consumed a.k.a it can only be used so many times (think this ferro rod, it will eventually wear out), or will get lost or stolen or fail. IMO, one of the most important skills to learn is flintknapping. It's nice to have all that stuff, but eventually it won't do you any good.
Hit the nail on the head, you're pretty much right about everything you said. I gotta say, though, that I just keep a couple cigarette lighters and stormproof matches in my "oh shit" bag and it's a lot cheaper. And those are for the exact same emergency situation that this fire starter is. Another great review, keep em comin!
"knock it off fire!" he saids while hitting the object on fire into the grass around, not thinking if it could possibly start a fire in the forest that hes in. Good job man
Wow, what an fucking moron! If the ground caught fire he would have seen it, HE WAS SITTING RIGHT THERE. You think he just has no peripheral vision and he cant see what's happening 45 degrees to the side of him, it was less than five feet away from him, like whatever brush he's in will just combust and burn down everything around him and he's just sitting there not noticing.
Hey Chris. First I wanna say that I really appreciate all your videos. Thank you. I recently heard about a Fire Piston. I had no idea they existed until now. Not a lot of people know what they are. I was hoping you could do a review on the "Vulcan Fire Piston". Thanks again for ALL of your insight.
i got a flin & Steel firestarter from ebay for 1$ 3 years ago,i use it very frequently and it still works like its new. and it doesnt look like a outdoor dildo.
Well, I hope you are getting a piece of the action. I just went and bought the red one with extra tinder- $70 + unknown shipping until they process the order tomorrow. Good stuff...
I think the video is a bit long for an individual product test. You do well to address all the points you do, but you can surely save about a third of the time. Many things are being said redundantly. Thanks for your great vids. I'm just getting into these things, appreciate your information.
That happens when you don't script. Scripted videos sound dry and boring to me. I do what I do and the market will decide if they want to watch or not. Many people prefer that because I'm working things out in the fly and not just regurgitating product line items.
PREPAREDMIND101 Yeah, I wouldn't like it if you just read their documentation. It's fine if you don't script. I've seen plenty of people much worse; you're a relatively good presenter.
My flint and steel with a little bit of char cloth does the trick for me. I get ignition every time. The steel never wears out and you can find chert or quartz everywhere.
Bought one a year ago an definitely worth it. I was on the fence for awhile and glad I bought one. Spark is larger than my light my fire and easier to light stuff with.
Thoughts, what does this do that a normal ferro rod does not? there is only one thing that I can see, concentrates the sparks in a small area. Is the ability to concentrate the sparks on a smaller area worth $60 plus shipping? I can't see it saving my life when a bic/normal ferro combo won't
I miss mine already. Going to Survival On Purpose next for his review. As soon as that June paycheck hits I'm going to get a red one. I know its pricey but I actually think it's worth it. Used my Spark Force to light a swedish torch earlier and wished I had that lightning strike. Would have shaved a few minutes and less ferro rod.
The problem, as with most people these days, is in your technique. Understand the underlying concepts, pay attention to detail and practice, practice, practice! Most of my fires with Flint (the rock) and Steel, ferro, match, etc are ignited with a single strike. Almost all with 5 strikes or less and I use every tinder imaginable. As I've told many people, "If you're flailing away, you're training to fail."
How well does this work wet? Almost everything you lit was designed to be easily lightable in perfectly calm and normal weather. Let's see how this thing works when it's raining and all you have is what is around you. There is no way in the world this thing is worth $60. You could buy 20 bic lighters and seal them in plastic and have enough money left over to buy a case of beer with what you would save. Did you receive any compensation at all for this review?
tarstarkusz I kept the Lightning Strike. Why, you think it's so bad I have to be paid? If I were, so you think they would pay someone to spend half the video dealing with the fact that it's not cheap? As far as "how well does it work when it's wet?"... C'mon dude! It's a ferro rod! It's still the best at what it does. I actually used it in the video going up tomorrow. If this thing cost $20 EVERYONE would have it. The price is getting in the way of accepting that the tool itself is great and does exactly what is designed to do.
+PREPAREDMIND101 Chris, you saw this coming and called it....pay no attention to the morons. I have one and it's worth every penny......Keep the vids coming buddy and thanks again for everything you do...
one thing I'd be curious about is how water proof the container is. It looks pretty water proof, and I bet it floats well, but that's always a concern of mine. Both my bug out bags are WW era german mountaineer packs with are rubberized super heavy duty canvas for that reason. Have yet to find a modern equal.
one observation...the set screw requires an allen wrench. set screws can work them selves loose. do you carry a set of allen wrenches in your survival pack? change it to a flat head or include the allen key with the product. otherwise it really is a better mouse trap.
Ok im definitely going to make my own and it would not be very hard to make . I will make mine a little smaller so it will be easier to pack i dont need as much fire tinder as that one carries. Mainly its the idea of shooting sparks from a tube . Aluminum or ss tubing and a fire rod with a lanyard hole . I will probably thread the ends with a tap and die and will probably use a bolt and nut or a pin or cotter pin etc...
Very cool, I like that the striker channel has a stop at the end... With a naked rod It is SO easy to swipe off the end and knock your tinder away from the sparks. This thing is as close to idiot proof as any fire starting method I have ever seen!
cchgn Try doing that with a broken arm or if your hands are too cold to grip the rod or striker... This tool is a life saving device for emergency situations, not to build every fire you will ever start.
Walter Cunniff Really? you spent energy deciding to post that to me? wow, we could sit here try and come up with every little scenario to disclaim every device known to man. Did you invent this device? Do you represent these folks of this device. So now it's just a an emergency device? Really? So for several times the cost of a bic lighter, this is only good for emergencies. Hmm. Btw, if you have a broken arm out in the wild, you have alot more problems than trying to use a striker/ferro rod. Same with if your hands are so cold, that you can't properly use a stiker/ferro rod. Btw, this guy didn't even invent this device. He is testing it, it's not his place to say what the device is meant for. I've been making fires for 40 yrs, when as a young Boy Scout, earned a badge by making a fire and cooking a meal with nothing but a single match. Then went on to join the Marine Corps and learned more ways to start fires. I make and own Compression fire starters and have every means to start a fire. Even this guy says that this device solves the problem of regular striker/ferro rods where the sparks go everywhere except to the tinder. I was addressing that issue. IMO, the reason for that is improper technique of a striker/ferro rod, hence my explanation. Maybe you could provide something we can use, instead of trying to get on her and be pompous, I would have to call you an idiot.
cchgn Lol. I like the fact that you mentioned you were a Boy Scout and earned your Merit Badge for fire making. So did I, almost 40 years ago. Of course, I had been making fires and cooking on them for years before I was a Boy Scout. I spent the first 19 years of my life in a little hamlet called Indian Lake, in the central Adirondack State park, where bushcraft was a way of life. You were in the Marines. I respect that more than you probably know. I spent 8 years in the Army 10th SFG. Yeah, I learned more ways to make fire as well. Everyone knows that a Bic lighter is the most widely used fire starter on the planet. Sometimes they do not work. I have had brand new Bic lighters not work due to freezing temperatures. (When I got home it worked fine) Having a fool proof back up is a good idea. This product, in my opinion, is just that. Anyone can use it with zero training. That makes it an impressive emergency tool. I realize that he is only doing a product review. That is why I watched the video. I wanted to see if the hype matched the product after watching the official product video on their website. As for technique with a fire steel, I find that pinning the tinder under the tip of the rod and striking straight down into it works the best for me. It offers more control over the spark distribution and with proper body placement, blocks most winds from interfering. As for being pompous... That was never my intention. I was merely pointing out that the technique that you use, or even my technique, will not work if you are suffering from hypothermia or an injured limb. Yes you do have more issues than starting a fire if you have a broken limb. However. That fire will afford you the ability to signal for help and treat your injury more completely. Thanks for the return comment. Walt
Regarding loosing your gear, try a strip or two of reflective tape that matches your gear, you won't loose gear as much and it will identify it as yours and not your friends in a camping trip or something. I like your videos quite a bit, keep up the good work.
I got one. Worth every penny. I like the design. Like you say there are some limitations but it works easily and you can always find it.Got The red color can see it anywhere. Thanks for the info.
I was checking these out awhile back I seen the father and son doing a video on these and like you said if it is going to save your ass in a life or death scenario there is not a price on your life I totally think it is worth the money
From the looks of it, the rod in there has a high magnesia content, and it will wear down quite quickly. You were saying that you have used it for one week, and in the video you are now at about a quarter of the thickness of the rod. Next to the high initial price, what does it cost to replace the rod, if even possible?
Is it possible the compressed kerosene block would have been harder to light *without* the plastic wrapper? Plastic goes up quite easily and burns pretty good (being a petroleum product)
Not sure if you covered it but a great thing about it, is you can also use it with one arm. Just point it at your tinder, step on it with your foot and strike it with your good arm! Pretty awesome tool!
Pretty awesome waste of money. A UST Sparkie, a UST Sparkwheel, a Long Bang brass striker, a Spark Lite, a Zippo Striker with tinder, or a UST Blast Match will all work MUCH better one-handed to spark a fire, and all 6 combined are $12 less than one Lightning Strike.
Chris, great video. Looks like an outstanding fire starter. I checked your on-line store, but couldn't locate the item, after looking in quite a few catagories. I'd prefer to purchase it from your store if I can.
I like it.. I like the concept and from what I saw I like that it actually works as designed. I ordered one from Amazon for $67.50 and free freight. It doesn't weigh anything so it won't bother me but it will sure start every fire for me. Thanks for the heads up!
Another great feature of the Lightening Strike: your striker will never knock your tinder pile over because the striker doesn't leave the aluminum tube. Thanks for the demo, Chris.
You're right it is a great product and as such worth the price if you can afford it. I have a work around however, I had an old mini mag flashlight in the garage and I made my own version with a Dremel tool. It's actually more compact and showers sparks even tighter than my actual official Holland Gun brand striker. In addition a belt holster for the mini mag was already on the market.
Saw these on Darrell Holland's site a bit of time ago and was immediately impressed by the design. Took a shot at two, one for each vehicle's emergency kit. (They were only $56 then IIRC.) As you said, Chris. They are bomb proof built and work like a champ. Great addition to my emergency fire/water kit. Not cheap, but neither is hypothermia to deal with...
I just visited the website for the firestarter and noticed they offer a "mini-lightning strike" as well. I was hoping for a reduced cost to match the size difference........not so much......its the same price. Unfortunately!! Still, as a "once in a liftime" type of item, ( it IS an "investment" rather than a "terminal" item.) In that respect it isn't TOO much to spend, if you think about it IN that respect. Still a GREAT product from your demonstration and review! Based on that, as soon as its feasible, I will buying ONE! (Surely not 5, as YOU said!) Thanks for the review!. Love your videos! Keep up the good work!
I have one, carry it with me every time I go camping/atving. I wouldn't leave home without it... Another plus is that it was made/designed by a Boy Scout and his dad and that helps support them.
yeah, the price shocked me too but I'm still getting one because it works as soon as you need it, no messing around with anything just fire. it is what it is.
Great review Chris. Living on less than $900 a month,$60 is a lot of money but not really if you stop and think what you're getting for the money. You only have to buy it one time in your life.
Great and well conceived product, easy and safe to use and if the fire rod is done you can replace it easily (naked rods are mostly cheaper than a new firestarter). Well, 60$ (or ~44€)...i think it is worth the price. Thanks for the review, Chris!
Chris, I was watching the video that they have on the company site and was kind of going back and forth whether to get it or not. But then he talked about having an arm injury and used the product one handed to start a fire and that was a seller. Other than a lighter, no other fire starter is going to let you effect fire one handed.
great review. totally agree with your take on it. for emergency kit, pilot, trucker, ect. I think you are right about the production cost. I think if the makers were to license it to a bigger company that has capital and supplies to produce it cheaper they can totally drop that price. It would sell like crazy if you they did that. Holland Guns is that the name? well they should consider it(I think they are considering the "patent pending" written on the side.). hold on guys, I think once the business deals are done it'll hit your major outlets soon.
When he showed the "tinder" compartment, I thought, "This would be a good place to store my Bic lighter and some waterproof matches." .... then I thought, why buy a $60 fire starter when I can store my Bic lighter and some waterproof matches in a free cigar tube.
This is the first review, Actually the first vid I've ever watched of yours and I have to say man you nailed it. Very good on demo, practicality and then what most of us watching these vids are going to care the most about, because we can all start a fire but I agree whole heart'd that at the price it is a ABSOLUTE emergency tool... Yet I did get 1 and I came to the same conclusion you did. It'll be in the not used very often kit but it is a great tool.. Look forward to your other contributions. Thanks
It would be interesting to see if they would make a model that is just the striker and ferro rod inside the tube. It might cut down on the price. Then you could just buy their fire starters or use/make your own.
I don't know if you already have, but you should get a wireless mic with a lapel for your videos or a shogun boom mic with a wind sock. Hit me up if you need more details/ advice.
oldntatted The problem is people are just seeing it on video and reacting to the price. If you had it in hand, you'd think "where can I scrape up $60?". And nobody is going to be happy with a Macguyvered one made from PVC and glue. This thing is perfect IMO.
I ran a machine shop's second operations dept. for almost 10 years. and know what is takes to make QUALITY products. AND the Chinese will never want to know or make them... BY USA...
If you only had a hundred dollar bill for tinder, would you use it to make a lifesaving fire? or is it an over priced fire starter? No ill will ment, just looking for a price you would put on your life. Alfonso Casillas
I could honestly accept the price for something like an emergency vehicle kit. Alot of people dang near froze this past winter in the south due to those snow storms and being stranded on highways.
Chris, You make several valid points in the video. In turn I, purchased two. and got an extra tinder bundle included for free. Keep up the good work on the videos.
Thanks for the info Prep, I think its worth the 60 bucks for the wife or kid that's just starting to learn. After that you'll always have it in the glove box or emergency kit somewhere. You get the thumbs up.
its a great backyard bushcraft (yardcraft) tool! need the fire but havn't spent the hours to get good with a ferro rod then boom, its like a cheat code.
I haven't used the BG one in forever. I have four UST Spark Forces now (modded) and a lot of Exotac stuff. Other odds and ends. But yes, I am going to buy one for myself. The people that think they are going to whip one up with copper tubes and gorilla glue I think are going to be disappointed. The key is the striker to this method. It has to be perfect.
Hi there, I Cannot Fins this item anywhere near in The Netherlands, Europe. Is there anyway it can be introduced to some outdoor/survival (web) store I. The Netherlands? I would be really interested to purchase one...
![Chris Langan - The Interview THEY Didn't Want You To See - CTMU [Full Version; Timestamps]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/9miVG2xT5jY/mqdefault.jpg)
"If you can't get a fire started with this thing; don't ever leave the city!" I actually laughed out loud!
Fun review Chris, thanks!
If you own one of these things don’t ever leave the city ha ha
Using a ferro rod is all about technique, that in 2021 is learned by watching good videos and then practicing starting fires. I went out today and bought my first ferro rod for $3.99, after watching about 2 hours worth of bushcraft videos on how to use them. It took me 3 minutes to start my first fire with one, on a paper towel. I then started my second fire on a piece of rotted softwood in about 2 minutes. $3.99 vs $60.00? $3.99 is working just fine for me.
For me it boils down to two simple questions. Does it work as good as it claims? Is it going to have a massive impact on being able to help me live in a real emergency? If the answers are yes, then its worth twice the asking price, because my life is certainly worth that and more!
Great video, thanks!!
Chris - thanks for the video. Yes, it is pricey at $60, but a combustion source that is nearly 100% dead on reliable in a survival situation, I contend it is well worth the price. Also, I would rather give a U.S. company $60 for a great product than $25 to a Chinese company. Thanks for the video!
Thank you Edmund...I was saddened to see others say ship it over seas...or lets steal the idea and not support the community.
You said it. I didn't want to have to deal with the price do much in the video but I know the market and when there is that much gap people ARE going to bitch.
Buy ONCE cry ONCE!
He came up with a awesome system, as a machinist I can see quality when I see it. It's a little pricey, but you'll only have to buy it once IMHO
At 60 bucks I'm cool with it, but I heard at first it was 200$
You can make this yourself... one piece of copper tubing or steel a bolt a bit of sawing with a iron saw... 10 mins job... im going to make one this weekend...
so..thanks i will make one out of copper pipe and cork and a solid big ferro rod
The hardest part about doing a review like this is thinking the product is great but also knowing that 98.4% of the people watching it are going to have a stroke when they hear the price. But maybe that is something they need to see. Give your thoughts on the device and the price separately.
I had seen this product somewhere else and thought the exact same thing you did. "I have to get a couple of those." Then I found the site and saw the price. Too rich for my blood. It doesn't "solve" any problems it just makes things easier.
I wonder if they could get the price down by selling it without the firesteel and without the tinder. The site lists tinder refills as $10 and the rod is prob close to $10 and no manual labor to put things together.
It's the last fire starter you will need. The company probably does not expect repeat customers. Hence one time high price.
When your freezing your ass off, trying to start a fire in the snow or rain, you'll wish you had one....even at $150. Cold sucks! Warm is good!
Here's the thing: I dont feel I personally NEED it, but I think if you laid all ferro-based firestarters out on a table and said "We're dropping you off in the jungle... You get to pick ONLY ONE".... people would choose this one every single time. At least, I think they would if they used it side by side.
Lol lol doing the best that can brother with the dyslexic mind. Love the vids dan
So guys, lesson learned. If you want him to review something, just call it "the Jessica of ________"
Won't work. I am the sole determiner of the J-label.
PREPAREDMIND101 Haha lol!
+Leo McKee I think calling it "the Jessica of ______ will work as long as others have brought it up. Chris is "the sole determiner of the J- label" but saying the J-word does seem to make him perk up and listen and at least consider it as a reviewable item.. LOL, it worked this time to get a review and I am glad it did.
How about it Chris? PREPAREDMIND101
Is this a new way of insuring a review of a product? Too Funny.
The sharpens best sharpener is the Jessica of.............. The tungsten carbide field sharpeners
I have a 9 and 6 year old that have one for emergency reasons in their get home bag and for the price of cheap Nikes my sons can use this without any problem or worry. I appreciate the review. Just like all of your reviews I believe you are honest, to the point and I learn every time I watch them.
Thanks
I'm 7 years late to this video, but I wanna say I get this product. There's the $100 BK9, then there's the $300+ BRK Bravo Crusader. Both work incredibly well, it all comes down to preference sometimes. That being said, $60 is quite steep...
Well done sir, you set it up so I was expecting a WAY more outrageous price. 60 Bucks is a bargain compared to the price I was expecting :)
Chris when you were hesitating to tell us how much it costs I was thinking to myself Oh crap this thing is going to be like $200. $60 for a life saving emergency piece of equipment is not a lot of money, it's perfect for a bug out bag. I think I would conserve it, and not pull it out of the bag every time I went out in the woods. You could make it even better if you put a misch metal rod in there, hell that would make it a weapon too. Mike
I'm not really into the survival thing, but this got my attention for a good two hours of your other videos!! You do a really good job presenting the material. I like how you show the packaging, unless you've lost it. You do seem to lose a lot of stuff. Lol! People like you are why they make lanyards! Good work.
Love the review and a great little peace of gear. Thinking out of the box made one great little fire starter. I will definitely be getting one. Two thumbs up on the review, just wish I had one for my trip in the Flint Hills today.
That was a great review of a great product. I had the same reaction when I saw their video and went to buy one on their web site. So before I invested 60.00 + dollars I just had to see a no BS review. Thanks.
6:54 only you can prevent forest fires
That shit cost $70,,,,A ZipLock bag with some dry news paper and a Bic lighter in your bug out pack would accomplish the same emergency fire starting .... Smart is being effective without spending a bunch of money to be fashionable at the same time.
+jodopeg Piss on your paper, you are probably the kind that trashes the woods..
+jodopeg You're missing the genius logic. By the time the SHTF, your money will be no use so you must spend it all before then and then sit around, preparedly, waiting for it to happen. ta daa
jodopeg lmfao
Agree, too many people rely on "gear". Knowledge is what will save you. Gear gets consumed a.k.a it can only be used so many times (think this ferro rod, it will eventually wear out), or will get lost or stolen or fail. IMO, one of the most important skills to learn is flintknapping. It's nice to have all that stuff, but eventually it won't do you any good.
"Hey.......knock it off, fire!"
Really looks like an awesome survival tool. Thanks for the info.
Hit the nail on the head, you're pretty much right about everything you said. I gotta say, though, that I just keep a couple cigarette lighters and stormproof matches in my "oh shit" bag and it's a lot cheaper. And those are for the exact same emergency situation that this fire starter is. Another great review, keep em comin!
"knock it off fire!" he saids while hitting the object on fire into the grass around, not thinking if it could possibly start a fire in the forest that hes in. Good job man
Adam Szpiczynski That "forest" is my old backyard. Its still there.
Wow, what an fucking moron! If the ground caught fire he would have seen it, HE WAS SITTING RIGHT THERE. You think he just has no peripheral vision and he cant see what's happening 45 degrees to the side of him, it was less than five feet away from him, like whatever brush he's in will just combust and burn down everything around him and he's just sitting there not noticing.
Hey Chris. First I wanna say that I really appreciate all your videos. Thank you. I recently heard about a Fire Piston. I had no idea they existed until now. Not a lot of people know what they are. I was hoping you could do a review on the "Vulcan Fire Piston". Thanks again for ALL of your insight.
i got a flin & Steel firestarter from ebay for 1$ 3 years ago,i use it very frequently and it still works like its new. and it doesnt look like a outdoor dildo.
Well, I hope you are getting a piece of the action. I just went and bought the red one with extra tinder- $70 + unknown shipping until they process the order tomorrow. Good stuff...
Awesome video as usual, say where did u find those zip blocks I couldn't find them anywhere ?
I think the video is a bit long for an individual product test. You do well to address all the points you do, but you can surely save about a third of the time. Many things are being said redundantly.
Thanks for your great vids. I'm just getting into these things, appreciate your information.
That happens when you don't script. Scripted videos sound dry and boring to me. I do what I do and the market will decide if they want to watch or not. Many people prefer that because I'm working things out in the fly and not just regurgitating product line items.
PREPAREDMIND101 Yeah, I wouldn't like it if you just read their documentation. It's fine if you don't script. I've seen plenty of people much worse; you're a relatively good presenter.
"For dummies" couldn't have said it any better. Flicks a fire to the grass...
iFokshe Pah i guess i wasn't the only one that noticed that lol
Ha! Was thinking the same shit.
This is truly an amazing product. I got mine in and within minutes I was smiling, this is even *better* than advertised.
“Aim small, miss small.”
seems a great fire starter but it's a bit bulky, plus it looks like a soft rod so how easy is it to get a replacement, and how much would it cost?
Thanks for all the effort in this video. Nice job all the way around.
Chris what's the weight on it? I use zip starters but I have to fluff them a little to light them with a fero rod.
My flint and steel with a little bit of char cloth does the trick for me. I get ignition every time. The steel never wears out and you can find chert or quartz everywhere.
Bought one a year ago an definitely worth it. I was on the fence for awhile and glad I bought one. Spark is larger than my light my fire and easier to light stuff with.
Looks great! I can't wait to get my hands on one to give it a try!
I agree with his statement. Even look that with injury or lost of fine movement you could use the device.
Great piece of kit !
Thoughts, what does this do that a normal ferro rod does not? there is only one thing that I can see, concentrates the sparks in a small area. Is the ability to concentrate the sparks on a smaller area worth $60 plus shipping? I can't see it saving my life when a bic/normal ferro combo won't
I miss mine already. Going to Survival On Purpose next for his review. As soon as that June paycheck hits I'm going to get a red one. I know its pricey but I actually think it's worth it. Used my Spark Force to light a swedish torch earlier and wished I had that lightning strike. Would have shaved a few minutes and less ferro rod.
very god equipament, excelent
The problem, as with most people these days, is in your technique. Understand the underlying concepts, pay attention to detail and practice, practice, practice! Most of my fires with Flint (the rock) and Steel, ferro, match, etc are ignited with a single strike. Almost all with 5 strikes or less and I use every tinder imaginable. As I've told many people, "If you're flailing away, you're training to fail."
How well does this work wet? Almost everything you lit was designed to be easily lightable in perfectly calm and normal weather. Let's see how this thing works when it's raining and all you have is what is around you. There is no way in the world this thing is worth $60. You could buy 20 bic lighters and seal them in plastic and have enough money left over to buy a case of beer with what you would save. Did you receive any compensation at all for this review?
tarstarkusz I kept the Lightning Strike. Why, you think it's so bad I have to be paid? If I were, so you think they would pay someone to spend half the video dealing with the fact that it's not cheap?
As far as "how well does it work when it's wet?"...
C'mon dude! It's a ferro rod!
It's still the best at what it does. I actually used it in the video going up tomorrow. If this thing cost $20 EVERYONE would have it. The price is getting in the way of accepting that the tool itself is great and does exactly what is designed to do.
+PREPAREDMIND101 Chris, you saw this coming and called it....pay no attention to the morons. I have one and it's worth every penny......Keep the vids coming buddy and thanks again for everything you do...
one thing I'd be curious about is how water proof the container is. It looks pretty water proof, and I bet it floats well, but that's always a concern of mine. Both my bug out bags are WW era german mountaineer packs with are rubberized super heavy duty canvas for that reason. Have yet to find a modern equal.
one observation...the set screw requires an allen wrench. set screws can work them selves loose. do you carry a set of allen wrenches in your survival pack? change it to a flat head or include the allen key with the product. otherwise it really is a better mouse trap.
Ok im definitely going to make my own and it would not be very hard to make . I will make mine a little smaller so it will be easier to pack i dont need as much fire tinder as that one carries. Mainly its the idea of shooting sparks from a tube . Aluminum or ss tubing and a fire rod with a lanyard hole . I will probably thread the ends with a tap and die and will probably use a bolt and nut or a pin or cotter pin etc...
Very cool, I like that the striker channel has a stop at the end... With a naked rod It is SO easy to swipe off the end and knock your tinder away from the sparks. This thing is as close to idiot proof as any fire starting method I have ever seen!
Yep. If the skeptics had one in hand they'd think so too. I don't throw the J-word around lightly.
Actually the technique is to hold the striker and pull the rod, so as not to knock ant tinder away. This product suggests doing it backwards.
cchgn
Try doing that with a broken arm or if your hands are too cold to grip the rod or striker... This tool is a life saving device for emergency situations, not to build every fire you will ever start.
Walter Cunniff Really? you spent energy deciding to post that to me? wow, we could sit here try and come up with every little scenario to disclaim every device known to man. Did you invent this device? Do you represent these folks of this device. So now it's just a an emergency device? Really? So for several times the cost of a bic lighter, this is only good for emergencies. Hmm. Btw, if you have a broken arm out in the wild, you have alot more problems than trying to use a striker/ferro rod. Same with if your hands are so cold, that you can't properly use a stiker/ferro rod. Btw, this guy didn't even invent this device. He is testing it, it's not his place to say what the device is meant for. I've been making fires for 40 yrs, when as a young Boy Scout, earned a badge by making a fire and cooking a meal with nothing but a single match. Then went on to join the Marine Corps and learned more ways to start fires. I make and own Compression fire starters and have every means to start a fire. Even this guy says that this device solves the problem of regular striker/ferro rods where the sparks go everywhere except to the tinder. I was addressing that issue. IMO, the reason for that is improper technique of a striker/ferro rod, hence my explanation. Maybe you could provide something we can use, instead of trying to get on her and be pompous, I would have to call you an idiot.
cchgn Lol. I like the fact that you mentioned you were a Boy Scout and earned your Merit Badge for fire making. So did I, almost 40 years ago. Of course, I had been making fires and cooking on them for years before I was a Boy Scout. I spent the first 19 years of my life in a little hamlet called Indian Lake, in the central Adirondack State park, where bushcraft was a way of life. You were in the Marines. I respect that more than you probably know. I spent 8 years in the Army 10th SFG. Yeah, I learned more ways to make fire as well. Everyone knows that a Bic lighter is the most widely used fire starter on the planet. Sometimes they do not work. I have had brand new Bic lighters not work due to freezing temperatures. (When I got home it worked fine) Having a fool proof back up is a good idea. This product, in my opinion, is just that. Anyone can use it with zero training. That makes it an impressive emergency tool. I realize that he is only doing a product review. That is why I watched the video. I wanted to see if the hype matched the product after watching the official product video on their website. As for technique with a fire steel, I find that pinning the tinder under the tip of the rod and striking straight down into it works the best for me. It offers more control over the spark distribution and with proper body placement, blocks most winds from interfering. As for being pompous... That was never my intention. I was merely pointing out that the technique that you use, or even my technique, will not work if you are suffering from hypothermia or an injured limb. Yes you do have more issues than starting a fire if you have a broken limb. However. That fire will afford you the ability to signal for help and treat your injury more completely. Thanks for the return comment.
Walt
Regarding loosing your gear, try a strip or two of reflective tape that matches your gear, you won't loose gear as much and it will identify it as yours and not your friends in a camping trip or something. I like your videos quite a bit, keep up the good work.
I have one and love it. Great review man.
I got one. Worth every penny. I like the design. Like you say there are some limitations but it works easily and you can always find it.Got The red color can see it anywhere. Thanks for the info.
I use a welders Stryker. Just squeeze and you have Sparks. The enclosed head keeps the Sparks moving toward your tinder.
I was checking these out awhile back I seen the father and son doing a video on these and like you said if it is going to save your ass in a life or death scenario there is not a price on your life I totally think it is worth the money
I got a question , do they sell the replacement rod for them ? because I see that yours after a week only, is pretty worn out.Thanks
From the looks of it, the rod in there has a high magnesia content, and it will wear down quite quickly. You were saying that you have used it for one week, and in the video you are now at about a quarter of the thickness of the rod. Next to the high initial price, what does it cost to replace the rod, if even possible?
Is it possible the compressed kerosene block would have been harder to light *without* the plastic wrapper? Plastic goes up quite easily and burns pretty good (being a petroleum product)
Not sure if you covered it but a great thing about it, is you can also use it with one arm. Just point it at your tinder, step on it with your foot and strike it with your good arm! Pretty awesome tool!
Pretty awesome waste of money. A UST Sparkie, a UST Sparkwheel, a Long Bang brass striker, a Spark Lite, a Zippo Striker with tinder, or a UST Blast Match will all work MUCH better one-handed to spark a fire, and all 6 combined are $12 less than one Lightning Strike.
6:54 - yeah just flick your burning tinder into the fucking woods...
How long would you expect something like this to last, do they have a use limit?
Chris, great video. Looks like an outstanding fire starter. I checked your on-line store, but couldn't locate the item, after looking in quite a few catagories. I'd prefer to purchase it from your store if I can.
hmm makes me wonder if it would be easy to make a cheaper versio of it by your self. Lide from stock aluminium profile or something.. hmm ..
I like it.. I like the concept and from what I saw I like that it actually works as designed. I ordered one from Amazon for $67.50 and free freight. It doesn't weigh anything so it won't bother me but it will sure start every fire for me.
Thanks for the heads up!
Another great feature of the Lightening Strike: your striker will never knock your tinder pile over because the striker doesn't leave the aluminum tube. Thanks for the demo, Chris.
+William Burr Very good point!
You're right it is a great product and as such worth the price if you can afford it. I have a work around however, I had an old mini mag flashlight in the garage and I made my own version with a Dremel tool. It's actually more compact and showers sparks even tighter than my actual official Holland Gun brand striker. In addition a belt holster for the mini mag was already on the market.
60 bucks is nuts though. This should be 25-30 bucks max.
I had mine for 3 years so far love it
o.0 What the heck happened to that tuft of starter tinder? Did you check at the time to make sure it wasn't catching on fire anything where it landed?
Saw these on Darrell Holland's site a bit of time ago and was immediately impressed by the design. Took a shot at two, one for each vehicle's emergency kit. (They were only $56 then IIRC.) As you said, Chris. They are bomb proof built and work like a champ. Great addition to my emergency fire/water kit. Not cheap, but neither is hypothermia to deal with...
I just visited the website for the firestarter and noticed they offer a "mini-lightning strike" as well. I was hoping for a reduced cost to match the size difference........not so much......its the same price. Unfortunately!! Still, as a "once in a liftime" type of item, ( it IS an "investment" rather than a "terminal" item.) In that respect it isn't TOO much to spend, if you think about it IN that respect. Still a GREAT product from your demonstration and review! Based on that, as soon as its feasible, I will buying ONE! (Surely not 5, as YOU said!) Thanks for the review!. Love your videos! Keep up the good work!
I have one, carry it with me every time I go camping/atving. I wouldn't leave home without it... Another plus is that it was made/designed by a Boy Scout and his dad and that helps support them.
where do you have to go to get one and how much do they cost?
hmmm
how many uses i get out of the lightning strike?
can i change the ferro rod inside?
Nice product, great vid
When is big bag o' blades part 3 going to come out?
I may add it to my just gestating bug out bag. Very new to the practice.
As always excellent videos. Keep up the good work!
Lightning strike... Cypress Hill...
yeah, the price shocked me too but I'm still getting one because it works as soon as you need it, no messing around with anything just fire. it is what it is.
You sure have a way of putting things into perspective. Great review.
have you tried a flint-magnesium fire starter I think they are the best
I have one in my wife's car bag. She doesn't go out or practice near like I do and this is a piece of mind for me, when I'm not around.
Great review Chris. Living on less than $900 a month,$60 is a lot of money but not really if you stop and think what you're getting for the money. You only have to buy it one time in your life.
Great and well conceived product, easy and safe to use and if the fire rod is done you can replace it easily (naked rods are mostly cheaper than a new firestarter). Well, 60$ (or ~44€)...i think it is worth the price.
Thanks for the review, Chris!
good video... Nice fire steel device... the price? I agree.. Felt the same way about the fire piston... which on average...on Ebay are expensive too.
Chris, I was watching the video that they have on the company site and was kind of going back and forth whether to get it or not. But then he talked about having an arm injury and used the product one handed to start a fire and that was a seller. Other than a lighter, no other fire starter is going to let you effect fire one handed.
Hey Chris I have 2 things to say:
First of all you are awesome
Seconedlly what is the knife u used?
great review. totally agree with your take on it. for emergency kit, pilot, trucker, ect. I think you are right about the production cost. I think if the makers were to license it to a bigger company that has capital and supplies to produce it cheaper they can totally drop that price. It would sell like crazy if you they did that. Holland Guns is that the name? well they should consider it(I think they are considering the "patent pending" written on the side.). hold on guys, I think once the business deals are done it'll hit your major outlets soon.
Even after two years it still costs $60!
Even after three years it still costs $60! And if you diy it's only $10
selling for £135 on amazon in the uk. really dumb imo. they could corner the market with a more reasonable price.
6:55 starts forest fire 😐
wow
this is my 1st look @ this product...
Awesome!
When he showed the "tinder" compartment, I thought, "This would be a good place to store my Bic lighter and some waterproof matches." .... then I thought, why buy a $60 fire starter when I can store my Bic lighter and some waterproof matches in a free cigar tube.
I attempted to purchase one but the website is blocked.
Can the ferro rod be replaced?
what is the life span of the striker & ferro rod?
love the videos keep up the great work
This is the first review, Actually the first vid I've ever watched of yours and I have to say man you nailed it. Very good on demo, practicality and then what most of us watching these vids are going to care the most about, because we can all start a fire but I agree whole heart'd that at the price it is a ABSOLUTE emergency tool... Yet I did get 1 and I came to the same conclusion you did. It'll be in the not used very often kit but it is a great tool.. Look forward to your other contributions. Thanks
It would be interesting to see if they would make a model that is just the striker and ferro rod inside the tube. It might cut down on the price. Then you could just buy their fire starters or use/make your own.
I don't know if you already have, but you should get a wireless mic with a lapel for your videos or a shogun boom mic with a wind sock. Hit me up if you need more details/ advice.
I'll wait for the Chinese version
oldntatted The problem is people are just seeing it on video and reacting to the price. If you had it in hand, you'd think "where can I scrape up $60?". And nobody is going to be happy with a Macguyvered one made from PVC and glue. This thing is perfect IMO.
I ran a machine shop's second operations dept. for almost 10 years. and know what is takes to make QUALITY products. AND the Chinese will never want to know or make them... BY USA...
$60 is overpriced for a firestarter
If you only had a hundred dollar bill for tinder, would you use it to make a lifesaving fire? or is it an over priced fire starter? No ill will ment, just looking for a price you would put on your life. Alfonso Casillas
When your Chinese crap breaks don't ask to borrow my Tops, you're on your own!
Great job, Chris !
Tradron MD
I could honestly accept the price for something like an emergency vehicle kit. Alot of people dang near froze this past winter in the south due to those snow storms and being stranded on highways.
Chris, You make several valid points in the video. In turn I, purchased two. and got an extra tinder bundle included for free. Keep up the good work on the videos.
Thanks for the info Prep, I think its worth the 60 bucks for the wife or kid that's just starting to learn. After that you'll always have it in the glove box or emergency kit somewhere. You get the thumbs up.
Nice product.
Must ask... why "The Jessica" ?
Thank you.
its a great backyard bushcraft (yardcraft) tool! need the fire but havn't spent the hours to get good with a ferro rod then boom, its like a cheat code.
is this going to replace your bg one in your kit?
I haven't used the BG one in forever. I have four UST Spark Forces now (modded) and a lot of Exotac stuff. Other odds and ends. But yes, I am going to buy one for myself. The people that think they are going to whip one up with copper tubes and gorilla glue I think are going to be disappointed. The key is the striker to this method. It has to be perfect.
I wish it had room to put a bigger diameter rod in but other than that I'm glad I got one.
Hi there, I Cannot Fins this item anywhere near in The Netherlands, Europe. Is there anyway it can be introduced to some outdoor/survival (web) store I. The Netherlands? I would be really interested to purchase one...
Looks like you could maybe DIY something similar out of aluminum tubing and an off the shelf ferro rod.....