Going Gear fire steels

wildmanh

wildmanh

Part time Leather Bender/Sheath maker
Joined
Jul 9, 2000
Messages
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I've been looking at the Firesteel rods from Going Gear and was thinking about which sizes are good for 72 hour kits, BoB's and small day packs. I ordered some 3/16" x 3" ones last week and they should be here soon.

3" long seems like a good size but I'd still like to know what you guys use?

Are the 2 to 2-1/2" ones easy to hold and use?

Any one know about how many strikes you can get on avarage from say the 3/16" and 1/4" models?

I'm evaluating these firesteels to see if I like them and if so I'll recommend them to my friends for use in their 72 hour kits and camping stuff.

Thanks,

Heber
 
I got a 3/8 x 4 inch model from them just last week (great, speedy service, by the way). I like this larger size, myself. Incidentally, it was harder to get sparks off of than my old steel, but once I got the hang of it ... wow! This thing throws some sparks! Best firesteel I've ever owned. The reasons that I got the 3/8 x 4 inch model was a.) it's easier to hold, and b.) it lasts longer. I'm sure that you'll like your 3/16 x 3 inch steels just as much though: they're great.
 
The smaller ones are the best sellers for me, but I'm guessing that is just because of their price and several bulk purchases that bumped the total up quite a bit. I personally use the Badger size (3/8" x 4") with a handle on it because I think that is the best compromise between size, usability, and weight. For 72 hour bags where these will not be used on a regular basis, I would say go with the Bobcat size (1/4" x 3"). It is small, light, cheap, and still very usable.
 
I have been packing the 3/8's x 4 in my pocket for about a week now. It rides in my left front pocket with a peice of fatwood, a scraper and my Izula. Very comfortable and handy.
 
I went straight for the 1/2" x 6" model. The thing is a beast, but gives off great sparks. I love having a lot of the firesteel to hold onto when striking, and this one works great for me. :)
 
Thanks for the input so far. :) It's helpfull. Please keep it coming. So far the 4" models are the populare here on BF.com. Thats good to know.

Aside from a little practice now and then I don't think the fire steels will get used much by people in my complex. The ones I have on order and already have will be used on campouts. It's fun to show off my fire making skills for others when I'm out camping.

Heber
 
I ordered a set of 5 3/16" by accident from him. I wanted 1/4 or 3/8.. The 3/16 are pretty small, but should be ok in a kit.
 
bladz said:
I ordered a set of 5 3/16" by accident from him. I wanted 1/4 or 3/8.. The 3/16 are pretty small, but should be ok in a kit.
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What length did you order? was it the 3"?

Heber
 
5x1/2 for me. Love 'em! Dont practice in the house!:eek: They're flamethrowers!--KV
 
i ordered this one >>>>> 1 x Hardwood Firesteel / Ferro Rod 3/8" - Cocobolo (fscocobolo) = $19.99Firesteel Size 3/8" x 4" Firesteel <<<<< I know nothing about firesteel i will learn from this one,i hope it's a good one.
 
crowsniper said:
i ordered this one >>>>> 1 x Hardwood Firesteel / Ferro Rod 3/8" - Cocobolo (fscocobolo) = $19.99Firesteel Size 3/8" x 4" Firesteel <<<<< I know nothing about firesteel i will learn from this one,i hope it's a good one.
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That seems like a populare size on Bladeforums. Congrats and let us know how you like it after some practice.

Heber
 
Got home from work about 40 minutes ago and my five fire steels were waiting for me. I promptly took them out side and tried them out. The 3/16" x 3" is big enough but a handle sure would help, thinking I'll try to make one for them soon.

They throw some impresive sparks and shaving a little steel off did seem to help. A Sharp edge is definantly needed!! Over all I'm pleased with my purchase! Got some 2 inchers coming in in a few days, those will definantly need handles.

Heber
 
badgers and otters, my two favs for kits. Plus you get great cust service and usually some lil feel-good extras! thanks goinggear!
 
After trying out my 3/16"x3" fire steel I think I'll add handles to them. My mom is coming into town and is bringing some Bamboo, branches, and dowels to make handles with.... I'll post pictures of the handles after they are finished.

I'm going to order a Hedgehog (1/4x4) Badger (3/8x4) and an Otter (5/16x4) when I can. The more sizes I can show to people the better.

Heber
 
Say, the idea of using bamboo for a firesteel handle sounds pretty good. May have to try that myself. Thanks for the tip, wildmanh.
 
dawsonbob said:
Say, the idea of using bamboo for a firesteel handle sounds pretty good. May have to try that myself. Thanks for the tip, wildmanh.
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No problem. Please post pictures of yours if you do it.

Heber
 
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