Complete guide: How to use a firesteel to light your first fires
Welcome to our complete guide on using a firesteel, a reliable and durable fire starter for lighting your campfires, fireplace or barbecue.
A firesteel, also known as a fire starter or firestone, is an essential tool for lighting a fire outdoors. It is made of a handle (generally plastic or wood) and a ferrocerium rod. It is durable and can be used in all weather conditions, even in rain, snow or high humidity.
To use a firesteel, you will need a striker (usually provided with it, but you can also use a knife, in this case it is best to use the back of the blade to avoid damaging it), and fuel.
Fuel can be dry wood, twigs, tree bark, pine sap, dried leaves or herbs, lichen, etc. You can also use tindersticks, small 100% natural resin-rich wooden sticks, or other effective fuels like cotton, paraffin or sawdust.
In our shop, you can find different types of waterproof and effective fire tinder to accompany you on your excursions:
Guide: Using a Firesteel
1. Before using the firesteel for the first time, scrape the black rod to remove the protective varnish, you should then see the gray metallic ferrocerium.
2. Prepare and gather your tinder on a support, preferably out of the wind.
3. Hold the firesteel at a 45-degree angle and rub it with the provided striker, make a quick and firm movement from top to bottom to send sparks to your fuel.
4. Add twigs and wood to maintain the fire.
5. Always be aware of yourself and your environment when using a firesteel and make sure the fire is completely out before leaving.
Tips and advice:
– It is preferable to scrape the end of the rod to extend the life of your firesteel (and avoid wearing the middle of it at the risk of breaking it), in addition to making it easier to direct the sparks towards the fuel.
– You can scrape a little ferrocerium from your rod to mix with your fuel and thus ensure easier ignition.
With a little training, you’ll quickly become an expert in the art of fire starting with a firesteel. It’s important to become familiar with your firesteel and use it in real conditions to ensure it works properly in case of emergency.
One final little bonus tip in video: Use a pencil sharpener + a small piece of wood to make shavings (Thanks Mike Horn)