Let’s Talk About Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH
The Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH is a compact and cleverly designed fire-starting tool from Esee, a company renowned for their rugged and reliable outdoor gear. It’s not just a ferro rod; it’s a combination of both ferrocerium and magnesium, offering a dual approach to creating a sustainable flame. This little tool promises to be a reliable companion in any survival or camping situation, offering a simple yet effective way to generate fire when matches or lighters aren’t an option.
I’ve always been a believer in redundancy, especially when it comes to fire starting. I needed a compact, lightweight, and foolproof fire-starting solution to add to my bug-out bag and hunting pack. The Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH seemed to fit the bill perfectly with its dual-material design.
Upon unboxing, the Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH felt solid and well-constructed. Its compact size makes it ideal for carrying on a lanyard or in a small kit. The build quality is immediately apparent, giving me confidence in its durability for demanding situations.
Several similar products exist, like the Light My Fire FireSteel 2.0 Army or various generic ferro rod and magnesium bar combinations. I chose the Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH because I trust the Esee brand and appreciated the convenience of having both materials integrated into a single rod. The overall form factor appealed to my desire for compact and efficient gear.
My first impression was positive. The Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH felt like a serious piece of kit despite its small size. I was excited to put it to the test and see if it lived up to the Esee reputation for quality and reliability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH was during a weekend camping trip in the nearby state forest. The weather was damp, with a light drizzle throughout the day, making traditional fire starting methods challenging. This was the perfect scenario to test the RAT-MATCH’s capabilities.
The Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH performed admirably in the damp conditions. The magnesium shaved off easily and ignited quickly, creating a hot, intense flame that helped to dry out the surrounding tinder. The ferrocerium rod threw a consistent shower of sparks, even when slightly wet.
The RAT-MATCH was relatively easy to use right out of the package. I did practice a few times at home to get the technique down, but it was intuitive. Creating a small pile of magnesium shavings and then directing the sparks from the ferro rod onto it was simple enough.
The only slight issue was that the magnesium shavings can blow away easily in even a slight breeze, but that’s easily mitigated by creating a small “bowl” or sheltered area for them. Overall, it worked perfectly on the first outing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple camping trips and some backyard fire-starting practice, the Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the ferrocerium and magnesium rods are still going strong. It looks and feels as good as new.
The durability is impressive. I’ve intentionally subjected the RAT-MATCH to some rough handling, including dropping it on rocks and exposing it to water, and it has continued to function without issue. The materials seem to be of high quality and designed for long-term use.
Maintenance is minimal. I simply wipe it down with a dry cloth after each use to remove any dirt or debris. The simplicity of the design means there are no moving parts to worry about.
Compared to other fire starters I’ve used, the Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH outperforms them in terms of convenience and reliability in adverse conditions. It’s a more consistent performer than traditional matches or lighters in wet or windy environments, and the integrated magnesium adds an extra layer of assurance. I feel confident relying on this tool in any situation.
Breaking Down the Features of Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH
Specifications
- Diameter: 9/32″ – This provides a good grip for consistent striking.
- Length: 3″ – Compact and easy to carry without being too small to handle effectively.
The compact size and specific dimensions are carefully considered to balance portability with ease of use. The diameter ensures a comfortable grip, while the length is sufficient for generating adequate leverage when striking. These specifications translate to a user-friendly experience, particularly in challenging conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH excels at its primary function: starting fires. The combination of ferrocerium and magnesium provides a reliable spark and a readily ignitable fuel source, making it easier to get a flame going, even with damp tinder. The reliability of this tool makes it a solid addition to any survival kit.
The strength lies in its simplicity and dual-material design. The magnesium provides a readily ignitable flame, while the ferrocerium rod ensures a consistent spark. The only minor improvement could be a more aggressive striker to generate even more sparks.
The RAT-MATCH meets and exceeds my expectations for a compact fire starter. It’s reliable, easy to use, and durable, making it an invaluable addition to my outdoor gear.
Design & Ergonomics
The Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH features a simple and functional design. The materials feel robust, and the size is perfect for carrying on a lanyard or in a small kit. The weight is negligible, making it easy to forget you’re even carrying it.
The design is user-friendly, with no complicated mechanisms or unnecessary features. There’s a slight learning curve in terms of technique, but it’s quickly mastered with a little practice. Overall it’s intuitive to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH is built to last. The materials are durable, and the simple design minimizes the risk of failure. With proper care, this tool should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. Just wipe it down after use and store it in a dry place. The rugged construction means there’s little risk of damage from normal use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH doesn’t come with many accessories. Its strength is in its simplicity.
However, attaching it to a lanyard with a small knife or multi-tool can enhance its functionality. This would provide a dedicated striker and a cutting tool for preparing tinder.
Pros and Cons of Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH
Pros
- Reliable Fire Starting: The combination of ferrocerium and magnesium ensures a consistent flame, even in adverse conditions.
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry on a lanyard or in a small kit without adding significant weight.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand rough handling and provide years of reliable service.
- Simple to Use: Intuitive design with a short learning curve, making it suitable for beginners.
- Trusted Brand: Esee is known for producing high-quality, dependable outdoor gear.
Cons
- Magnesium shavings can be blown away easily in windy conditions.
- The striker is not included, requiring a separate knife or tool.
Who Should Buy Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH?
The Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH is perfect for:
- Survivalists and preppers who need a reliable backup fire-starting method.
- Campers and hikers who want a lightweight and compact fire starter for backcountry adventures.
- Hunters and anglers who need a reliable fire source in remote locations.
This product may not be ideal for someone who primarily camps in established campgrounds with easy access to matches or lighters. Someone who prefers push-button convenience might find a standard lighter more appealing.
A must-have accessory is a sharp knife or multi-tool to act as a striker. A small tinder pouch to hold dried leaves or cotton balls will improve the user’s chances of starting a fire.
Conclusion on Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH
The Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH is a well-designed and reliable fire-starting tool that offers excellent value for its price. Its compact size, durable construction, and dual-material design make it a valuable addition to any outdoor or survival kit. The Esee name adds a level of confidence.
The price of $34.89 is justified by the quality and reliability of the product. While it’s not the cheapest fire starter on the market, it’s a worthwhile investment for those who value dependability in challenging conditions. It is worth every penny.
I would highly recommend the Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH to anyone looking for a reliable and compact fire-starting solution. It’s a simple yet effective tool that can make a big difference in a survival situation or on a backcountry adventure. Add the Esee Ferrocerium / Magnesium Combo Rod RAT-MATCH to your kit today and have peace of mind knowing you can always start a fire!