1. AOFAR Magnesium Flint Fire Starter
- AF-374 Retail Cost: $8
- Total Weight: 49.1 grams (1.7 ounces)
- 3.3 grams for fire/tinder paracord (not shown)
- Magnesium Bar Dimensions: 3 in. x 1.1 in. x 0.35 in.
- Estimated number of strikes: 3,000
Pros
- Can adjust magnesium shavings for desired ignition
- Includes fire/tinder paracord
Cons
- Small flint striker
- More expensive than other magnesium fire starters
2. Coghlan’s Fire Starter
- Retail Cost: $7
- Total Weight 52.6 grams (1.9 ounces)
- Ferrocerium Rod Dimensions: 2.9 in. x 0.3 in x 0.3 in
- Estimated number of strikes: 4,000
Pros
- Ferrocerium rod and striker is easy to hold in hand
Cons
- Did not include fire/tinder paracord
3. AOFAR AF-381 Fire Starter
- Retail Cost: $7
- Total Weight: 27.7 grams (1 ounce)
- Ferrocerium Rod: 3.9 in. x 0.7 in. x 0.5 in
- Estimated number of strikes: 3,000
Pros
- Lightweight
- Includes fire/tinder paracord
- Includes compass and whistle on handle
Cons
- Small ferrocerium rod and difficult to hold
- Small striker
4. QIHANERS Fire Starter
- Retail Cost: $5
- Total Weight: 52.3 grams (1.8 ounces)
- Magnesium Bar Dimensions: 3 in. x 1.1 in. x 0.35 in.
- Estimated number of strikes: 3,000
Pros
- Can adjust magnesium shavings for the desired ignition
- Flint striker includes a bottle opener and ruler
- Affordable
Cons
- Did not include fire/tinder paracord
- Flint striker lanyard too short and fragile
Should I Carry a Flint Fire Starter?
Flint type fire starters are fun to use but are not practical for backpacking. It is much easier to start a fire using matches or a lighter. A flint fire starter weighs more than a lighter and can’t provide the same flame. For most backpacking conditions we recommend carrying a butane lighter and some backup waterproof matches.