The best fire steel (Buying Guide 2024)
The fire steel is the ideal tool to ignite a fire. Take a look at the top list and get advice when buying to make the best choice.
From Martin Gebhardt. Check out my “About me” page.
👉 The key facts from this guide
- The Firesteel is an ideal tool: You can use it in your bushcraft camp, on a survival adventure, or in your bug out bag. It does not rely on fuel and is as easy to use as matches.
- Important for survival: Since fire is the second or third most important need for survival, it is of the utmost importance to be able to ignite a fire.
- Easy to use: Even children can generate sparks with the Firesteel. With most starters, you can ignite more than 1000 fires.
- Top list of the best Firesteels: In the buying guide, you will find various Firesteels, including Light My Fire ARMY 2.0, Fire-Fast Trekker, überleben Zünden Fire Starter, Wolf and Grizzly Fire Set, Gerber firestarter, US SparkForce Firesteel, and Exotac firestarter.
- Essential factors to consider when choosing: When selecting a Firesteel, you should consider size, weight, number of sparks, and price.
The best fire steel is by far the perfect tool to ignite a fire.
Use a Firesteel in your Bushcraft camp, on a survival adventure, or pack it in your Bug Out Bag.
I will now introduce you to my top list and guide you in your purchase. This way, you will make the best choice in the end.
Why you should carry a Firesteel with you
Since fire is the second to third most important need to survive, it is of utmost importance to be able to ignite a fire - right after a shelter, which is the most important need to survive.
The best part is: A fire steel does not rely on fuel and is as easy to use as matches.
Even my three-year-old children can generate sparks with it.
Although a Firesteel is tiny, you can ignite more than 1000 fires with most starters. The method is one of the simplest but most effective methods to ignite a fire in the wild.
Every adventurer appreciates the use and basically never goes without a Firesteel.
Recently, I have had many fire steels in my hand, and this top list has emerged.
I'll show you the best of the best - with the right balance between affordability, durability, performance, and quality.
Let's now start looking at the best fire steels. Here comes my top list in brief:
| Firesteel | Size | Weight | Sparks according to manufacturer | Price |
| Light My Fire ARMY 2.0 | small | + | +++ (12000) | €€€ |
| Fire-Fast Trekker | large | ++ | +++ (unknown) | €€ |
| überleben Zünden Fire Starter | medium to large | ++ | ++ (12000) | € |
| Wolf and Grizzly Fire Set | large | +++ | ++++ (20000) | €€€ |
| Gerber Firestarter | medium | ++ | ++ (8000) | €€€ |
| US SparkForce Firesteel | small | + | ++ (unknown) | €€ |
And now I will introduce each Firesteel in detail. Let's get started.
1. Light My Fire - Small, handy, reliable
This Swedish Firesteel is considered one of the best fire starters for outdoor enthusiasts - and for good reason. It is a proven tool that will prove useful in all your survival situations.
Data updated 9 hours ago
- BUILT-IN EMERGENCY WHISTLE INCLUDED with grip-friendly design, safe and so easy to use even a child can ignite the ferrocerium rod flint striker. Our enduring fire striker won’t let you down. Ideal outdoor emergency survival kit. Color: cocoshell
- WATERPROOF FIRE STARTER TOOL lets you light your fire like a pro with a rod and striker that don’t quit. Light My Fire flint fire starter always works even if it is wet and windy or high altitude, unlike cheap versions that don’t work in bad weather.
- UP TO 12,000 STRIKES AT 5400°F our firestarter camping essentials make any campfire a blazing success. These fire starters for camp fire pit and grill are trusted outdoor fireplace and firepit accessories and BBQ or camping fire starter gear tools. Ferrocerium Rod Diameter: 3/8" (10mm).
- BPA-FREE DURABLE 96% BIO-BASED PLASTIC handles and spark sure magnesium fire starter alloy, strong nylon cord, stainless-steel striker, set our reliable ferro rod wilderness survival gear apart. Take these travel-safe indestructible flints everywhere.
- LIGHT MY FIRE SWEDISH ARMY FIRESTEEL survival tools are of military grade standards and are made in Sweden. We are the original and our survival gear and equipment is premium quality. We reconnect humans with nature to create a sustainable planet.
$20.95
View ProductThis little guy beats its competitors by far when you look at durability, strength, and user-friendliness. It is precisely because of these facts that even survival and bushcraft experts recommend the Light My Fire. Survival experts, campers, hunters, and anglers love this thing.
This premium steel, made in Europe, features an optimized grip design. A groove is recessed in both parts and your thumb fits perfectly into it. I am constantly amazed at how great the Firesteel feels in my hand when lighting it.
With the Firesteel, you scrape off 3000 °C hot sparks, which then ignite your tinder. With an impressive 12,000 fire strikes, the tiny device fits in your breast pocket and delivers the flames you need anytime, anywhere.
This Firesteel is also available in the "Scout" version - a smaller and lighter version with 3000 ignitions.
The Light My Fire Scout has been reliably accompanying me on my travels for a long time and here you can find my detailed review.
Here is a video of me igniting a fire with the Firesteel "Scout" and introducing it to you:
The scraper also has an integrated emergency whistle, which is helpful in search and rescue situations.
Whether you go camping in spring, summer, autumn, or winter, this tool is there for you. It is suitable for use in any weather and at any altitude.
The Light My Fire Firesteel is also available in the "Army" and "Scout" versions. The differences are only in size and number of sparks. The "Bio Army" version is brand new, using bio-based plastic and wood fibers and coconut shell fibers.
No matter which one you choose, the benefits outweigh all types.
Advantages
Excellent craftsmanship
Suitable for any condition
Proven on the market for years
Bright and strong sparks
With emergency whistle
Disadvantages
Can be easily lost, no striking color
2. Fire-Fast Trekker
When it comes to making fire, I swear by my Fire-Fast Trekker. But you know what makes it even better? A pile of tinder full of fine magnesium shavings!
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Data updated 6 hours ago
- WE USE REAL FERROCERIUM (FERRO ROD). Austrian ferrocerium combines over a century of craftsmanship and superior technology to produce the finest ferro rod in the world. Our ferrocerium is 76% Rare Earth Metal, 20% Iron, 2% Magnesium and 2% Anti-corrosives. There are no other additives.
- MILITARY GRADE MAGNESIUM ROD used to create a burst of intense heat and flame kickstarting a fire even in the worst of conditions. The magnesium is easily scraped off with the striker and is ignited by sparks from the flint.
- HARDWOOD HANDLE crafted for sure grip even in the dead of winter. The handle can be scraped to produce dry tinder – essential in an emergency situation.
- STRIKER/SCRAPER made of hardened steel is sharpened to create large showers of sparks and won’t cut your skin. It also scrapes the magnesium rod and hardwood handle with ease.
- PARACHORD rated at 550 lbs. tensile strength made in the US by certified US govt contractor. Won’t break or rot.
$34.95
List Price: $39.95
The shavings catch the spark from the steel and blaze with a white-hot flame. This gets your tinder going in no time. Magnesium is lightweight, inexpensive, and so effective that there's no reason not to always have a small supply of it on hand. It's like a loyal friend who never lets you down.
My favorite is the Fire-Fast Trekker. Not only does it have a top-notch fire stick, but it also has plenty of magnesium. And the best part: the wooden handle can be scraped off and used as tinder. How awesome is that? Sure, it's a little bigger and pricier than others, but if you have the space and the cash, nothing beats it.
Advantages
Large and hot sparks
Durable construction
Aluminum tinderbox
Thick steel
Disadvantages
The large paracord can make the fire steel unwieldy
3. überleben Zünden Fire Starter
As a nature-loving bushcrafter and survival fan, I am continually looking for high-quality equipment that won't let me down in the wilderness. And I can tell you: The ÜBERLEBEN fire steel has absolutely convinced me!
Data updated 6 hours ago
- AS TIMELESS AS FIRE - Our Zünden ferro rod fire starter survival tool is as timeless as fire and will help get your flames lit. Made from ferrocerium, a sparking metal used with steel, our igniters will remind you nothing feels better than natural wood
- BEST FERRO BLEND, PERIOD - Our trademark Sånft-korr ferrocerium rod blend is balanced to boast both softness & durability. Ignite any fire with ease at any altitude you find yourself at or in any weather you get caught in, even when wet
- HANDCRAFTED HARDWOOD HANDLE - The handle of our fire starter rod is handmade from 100% hardwood to provide a natural textured grip while you rain down molten spark showers of up to 5,500F/3,000C and turn that natural finish into a seasoned one
- WITH LANYARD & MULTI-TOOL - Each of the ferro rods includes a mil-spec 550 paracord lanyard and a 6-function multi-tool that serves as a straight-edge fire striker, tinder scraper, map scale, ruler, hex wrench, and most importantly - a bottle opener
- AVAILABLE IN 3 DIFFERENT SIZES - The Zünden ferro rod with striker comes available in 3 thickness options for your preference: The Trad at 5/16" / 8mm(12,000 strikes), The Pro at 3/8" / 10mm(15,000 strikes), and the Fatty at 1/2" / 12.5mm(20,000 strikes)
$18.00
View ProductIt starts with the material. The fire steel is made of a special ferrocerium alloy called Sånft-korr. It is not only soft enough to strike sparks effortlessly, but also robust enough for tough outdoor use. Regardless of whether it is wet, cold or high altitude - by igniting it, you can conjure up a shower of sparks of up to 5,500F/3000°C quickly. This is guaranteed to get any tinder nest going!
But the highlight is the handle: Hand-made from 100% hardwood, it sits comfortably in the hand and simply feels good. Not one of those cheap plastic things! The stick is available in three diameters. I recommend the 3/8" or 1/2" thicknesses with up to 20,000 ignitions. Better more diameter than too little!
Conclusion: ÜBERLEBEN combines traditional bushcraft knowledge and modern manufacturing technology with ignition to create a product that simply makes you want to make a fire. If you are looking for a reliable fire steel, then go for it! It works and looks elegant too. For me, it is a loyal companion in the wilderness.
Advantages
Affordable
Solid construction
Great sparks
550 paracord lanyard
Disadvantages
The paracord could be a bit bothersome
4. Wolf and Grizzly Fire Set
The "Wolf and Grizzly Fire Set" Firesteel consistently outperforms many fire starters by delivering up to 20,000 sparks.
Data updated 6 hours ago
- BIG SPARKS EVERY STRIKE: The ferrocerium rod's large surface area creates the perfect strike-zone for powerful sparks with every strike.
- LONG LASTING: Our fire starter is designed to last 20,000 strikes, making it more sustainable and longer lasting than any match box, lighter, flint and steel or magnesium
- INSTANT FIRE: Consistently generates sparks of 5400°F degrees, making sure you can reliably light your fire every time. Save yourself the hassle of using a magnesium fire starter by using this ferro rod that can start your fire on the first strike.
- HIGH QUALITY KNIFE STEEL: Fire Set's striker is made of premium knife steel, allowing you to sharpen it just like you would any knife or multi-tool. Our fire starter survival tool can be counted upon in any situation
- WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED: Fire Set includes custom 550 type III paracord that has jute tinder embedded within it. In an emergency just cut open the paracord and you have fuel to start a fire anywhere.
$22.95
View ProductThis Firesteel couldn't be easier to use. There is no handle because the Firesteel is so powerful. The matching scraper is included, and the set is ready to go.
The "Wolf and Grizzly Fire Set" stands out for its excellent balance between softness and durability. And what could be better than knowing that the Firesteel will throw 5400°F hot sparks at any altitude and in any weather?
Here are the facts:
- Size 4.9” x 0.8”
- Ferro rod, steel striker, paracord with jute core
I like this fire starter because it is large enough to deliver a good spark. Especially for beginners, the Firesteel is great.
I would recommend this Firesteel to anyone who does backpack camping or regularly likes to ignite their bushcraft fire.
Advantages
Up to 20,000 sparks
Easy to use
Durable construction
Stable and large
Disadvantages
No handle
Somewhat heavy and bulky in the pocket
5. Gerber Bear Grylls Fire Starter -
Although small and compact, this fire starter guarantees you many years of use. The first thing you will probably notice is the waterproof construction, which keeps the tinder safe, dry, and durable.
Data updated 9 hours ago
- Zuverlässiges Überlebenswerkzeug zum Feuer machen für Outdoor-Begeisterte, Idealer Begleiter für Wander-Ausflüge, Survival-Trips oder beim Campen
- Schnelle Bedienung: Einfach den Schaber über den Zündstahl ziehen, Bis zu 8000 Funkenschläge, Integrierter wasserfester Zunderspeicher
- Minimales Packmaß, Handlich und leicht, Passt in jeden Rucksack oder an den Schlüsselbund
- Lanyard zum Sichern des Feuerstarters, Inklusive Notfallpfeife und Survival Guide
- Lieferumfang: 1 x Gerber Feuerstarter Bear Grylls Survival Series inklusive Notfallpfeife, 31-000699
$18.99
View ProductThe fire steel is supposed to produce over 8000 sparks. With proper use, you will have long-lasting fun and create strong and bright sparks.
Together with the good grip, this easy-to-carry "Bear Grylls" fire starter remains the ideal choice for any practicing survival artist.
The fire starter offers good value for money and I can recommend this product to any beginner who is looking for an affordable fire steel.
Advantages
Up to 8000 sparks
Affordable
Waterproof tinder storage
Emergency whistle
Band for attaching to clothing/backpack
Mini survival guide as an extra
Disadvantages
The cord could be longer
6. UST SparkForce Fire Steel
If you're still looking for the best way to generate sparks in windy, rainy, or other adverse weather conditions, be sure to check out the SparkForce Fire Steel from Ultimate Survival Technologies.
Data updated 9 hours ago
- DIMENSIONS: 3.1” L x 0.75” W x 0.4” D and weighs 1 oz
- EASE OF USE: Hold metal striker against the flint rod, apply pressure along the rod to create sparks and direct the sparks downward onto prepared surface to ignite the tinder
- DURABLE: The flint-based bar will last for multiple strikes and the striker is built into the detachable cap to protect the flint and prevent unintended sparks
- VERSATILITY: Ignites a wide range of tinder including UST Wetfire
- RELIABLE: Generates sparks in rain, wind and other adverse weather conditions
$8.39
View ProductBasically, the fire steel is easy to use; you just have to hold the striker against its fire steel rod, apply pressure along the rod, generate sparks, and then direct them onto the prepared surface to ignite your tinder.
The UST SparkForce Fire Steel has a removable cap that protects the fire steel and also prevents unintended sparks.
The fire steel features a bright and visible orange plastic housing, which is easy to spot when it falls on the ground in the dark.
Weighing only about 27 grams, this small SparkForce fire starter fits compactly in your pocket.
Advantages
Great fire steel and striker
Very reliable
Easy to ignite
Excellent visibility in the field
Disadvantages
The loop is not ideal for attaching to things
7. Exotac Nano XL Firestarter
The Exotac firestarter is the perfect companion for your keychain, weighing only 20 grams.
Data updated 9 hours ago
Exotac Feuerstarter NanoStriker XL Orange, One Size
- Ferrocerium Feuerstahl funktioniert auch bei Nässe
- Leichtes 6061 Aluminium-Gehäuse
- Auswechselbarer Feuerstahl
- Mehr als 3000 Zündvorgänge
$32.95
View ProductThe size (9.2 cm) of the firestarter means it can easily slide into your pocket. For comparison, the Exotac Nano firestarter is the size of a filter cigarette.
You can safely store it in your pocket, backpack, or survival kit along with your other bushcraft gear when heading into the wilderness.
The firestarter is made of high-quality 6061 anodized aluminum. This sturdy casing helps protect the ferrocerium rod from damage, such as breakage, and ensures it lasts even longer.
To use the Exotac Nano XL, unscrew it to reveal three parts: a striker with four sharp edges, the ferrocerium rod with a short casing, and the longer casing that the rod was inside, which now screws onto the short casing to serve as a handle.
The waterproof ferrocerium rod produces up to 3000 sparks, and the ferrocerium rod is replaceable.
While the firestarter is well-designed and produces sparks, it is more suitable as a keychain or gift for your survival partner.
Otherwise, the high price of the firestarter compared to its small size is not entirely justified for someone looking for a larger and more user-friendly firestarter.
Advantages
Small and compact
Construction of the highest level
Replaceable ferrocerium rod
The casing is durable and has a waterproof seal
Easy to find
Protected from environmental influences by the casing
Disadvantages
Requires finesse
Expensive
Buying guide to purchase the best fire steel and fire starter
As often applies: Those who inform themselves usually make better purchases than someone who spontaneously grabs.
It is also advisable to consider some factors when buying a Firesteel.
Factors include in particular the general structure and technical data of the fire steel, which significantly influence performance.
Easy to use or complicated?
Even if you may have already seen some YouTube videos or photos on the internet, lighting a fire with a Firesteel is not easy. Especially in the beginning, it can be frustrating.
That your tinder burns in the end depends on various variables in your environment. Is it raining or snowing? Are you by the sea or are you in a desert?
Therefore, you must use a Firesteel that is easy to handle and reliable.
And of course, your technique for ignition is crucial.
Different fire steels require different techniques, and you must therefore know how ignition is achieved to be successful.
Read my guide: 2 foolproof tricks to create a fire with a Firesteel.
Frequency of use
How often will you use your Firesteel? Are you only outdoors in the wilderness camp or on survival training twice a year? Then a small model like the Light My Fire ARMY 2.0 will be more than enough.
However, if you are traveling for several months or even on a world tour, it is better to get a comprehensive Firesteel. Furthermore, remember to bring a spare one for long trips.
Some bushcraft knives even come with a fire steel (here is my top list).
Also consider beforehand what you want to use your Firesteel for. Only to ignite a fire or also to light a cigarette or ignite a gas stove?
The more you need it, the more it wears out. Therefore, it's better to choose a larger Firesteel (like the Fire-Fast Trekker) that can handle all these tasks.
Calculate here the duration of how long your fire steel lasts:
Weight
Every survivalist prefers a Bushcraft equipment or Survival equipment that is lightweight. And here comes the small and compact Firesteel (like the Light My Fire ARMY 2.0) into play.
Everything under 200 grams is manageable and reliable. Fire steels of this size fit easily into your pockets or into the bags that are in the backpack.
Just make sure that when buying a small fire starter, you don't compromise on performance. Even if the descriptions sound wonderful, make sure that the fire steel works flawlessly.
Security and User Friendliness
Undertaking a Bushcraft adventure should be fun and captivating. An important part is to be well-prepared with the necessary Bushcraft tools.
If you venture into the wilderness, make sure to pack all the necessary survival tools. Your fire starters, in particular, play a crucial role.
Some lighters empty themselves over time or matches no longer work because the chemical composition has changed due to moisture.
Your Firesteel, however, will not break easily. Test again before setting off to see if the sparks ignite to your liking.
Waterproof
The weather in the great outdoors is often unpredictable; it can be rainy, snowy, or warm and sunny.
In any case, this means that you pack your waterproof fire steel with your survival equipment. This way, you are independent of the prevailing conditions and can ignite a fire at any time.
Test your Firesteel
It's trivial, but the simplest and most effective way to test a Firesteel is to perform a test. Otherwise, you have a problem if the Firesteel doesn't work.
Testing helps you understand the technology and user-friendliness of the Firesteel. You also learn how it behaves in different environments and conditions.
And testing doesn't necessarily mean that you should start a complete campfire. Some tinder, like birchbark or Fatwood, and you will see if the Firesteel meets your expectations.
If you want to know exactly how to make a fire with a Firesteel and birchbark, then check out my detailed e-book.
My recommendation for the best Firesteel?
Generally, the Light My Fire Firesteel Army performs the best. It is durable, compact, affordable, and produces fantastic sparks. That's why it is number 1 on my top list.
If you're looking for a longer Firesteel, go for the Fire-Fast Trekker or the überleben Zünden Fire Starter. You can't go wrong with either of them.
Author of the guide
Martin Gebhardt
Hey, I'm Martin. On my blog, you will learn the basics and numerous details about living in the wild. I think survival, bushcraft and the good life in nature are the keys to happiness. Find me here on Instagram or on YouTube. You can find more about my mission on the About Me page.
Since this is a gear guide, here ...
🤝8 reasons to trust my recommendation
Practical Experience: I have tested most of the products I recommend under extreme conditions myself.
Independence: As a wilderness mentor, I am not tied to any specific brands - this means my recommendations are unbiased.
Expertise: My many years of experience allow me to understand the intricacies and details of various products that a layperson might overlook.
Target group understanding: I understand the needs and challenges of outdoor enthusiasts, from beginners to seasoned experts.
Quality focus: I attach great importance to quality and longevity. These are characteristics that are crucial in the wild.
Clear communication: I try to explain the pros and cons of each product clearly and understandably so that you can make an informed decision.
Currentness: I always keep my guides up to date and adapt them to new findings or products.
Community Feedback: I work in wilderness schools, teach courses myself, attend courses and am active in various outdoor and survival communities and therefore integrate the feedback and experiences of others into my recommendations.
So when I introduce the best survival knives or flashlights, you can be sure that every recommendation is based on solid experience and extensive knowledge.
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