Fire Pistons - Gasket Material Question

G

gongzero

Joined
May 29, 2007
Messages
15
Hello all,

I'm interested in trying out a fire piston and so have been looking around to purchase one. What I've noticed is that you can either get one with an O-ring, or one with a string gasket, but I haven't seen much in the way of pros or cons for either sealing method.

My thinking is that an O-ring will probably be lower maintenance, but may potentially create such a good seal that the piston ends up being very difficult to remove from the cylinder.

Any comments?


-A
 
mine has a rubber o ring. it does create a tight seal, but is not difficult to remove.

as long as the o ring isnt to large, and the fit between the parts isnt too tight, there shoulnt be a problem.
 
For what it's worth, not all O-rings are created equal. Although most look to be made of the same black synthetic material, there are others for special uses, such as in fuel systems. It may or not be obvious, but O-rings come in different thicknesses as well as diameters, so keep that in mind when buying spares. A tiny bit of silicone based grease works well to lubricate them.
 
I got one from michaelmcgo and he makes them with the o-ring. It works excellent and is a lot of fun to use. Strongly Suggested.
 
To make sure the piston goes into the cylinder for storage without having to bleed the air out, and to ensure the piston comes out when you want to use the thing, just tie a piece of fine thread or hair to the piston. If you're starting a fire, pull the tread back out of the way when you start the piston into the bore. If you're putting your fire piston away, let the thread drop into the bore before you start the piston, breaking the seal.
 
Thanks for all the info!

I guess I'll go with an O-ring model for simplicity's sake then.


-A
 
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