First Impressions of Wazoo Survival Gear Viking Spark Necklace Black
The Wazoo Survival Gear Viking Spark Necklace Black isn’t just another piece of jewelry; it’s a wearable survival tool that aims to blend practicality with a touch of historical aesthetic. Wazoo Survival Gear has a reputation for innovative survival solutions, and this necklace piqued my interest as a potentially discreet and reliable fire-starting device. Is it just a cool-looking accessory, or a genuine piece of essential kit?
I was specifically looking for a backup fire starter that I could wear daily without it being bulky or obvious. My primary fire-starting methods include lighters and ferro rods in my kit, but having something on my person at all times provides an extra layer of security. I’ve used other minimalist ferro rod strikers, but the combination of the striking stone and the necklace design intrigued me.
Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was positive; the Arkansas Novaculite stone feels substantial, and the ferro rod appears securely mounted. The leather cord is of decent quality and the quick-release latch is a welcome addition. Compared to carrying a separate ferro rod and striker, or even a bulky fire starter kit, the Viking Spark Necklace promised a streamlined solution. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic – the build quality seemed good, but the real test would be in its functionality and durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wazoo Survival Gear Viking Spark Necklace Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Wazoo Survival Gear Viking Spark Necklace Black took place during a weekend backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was damp, with on-and-off drizzle, providing a perfect opportunity to test its performance in less-than-ideal conditions. I attempted to ignite some prepared tinder using the necklace.
It took a few tries to get the technique right, but the Black Zirconia ceramic scraper produced a decent shower of sparks. It was definitely harder to create a flame versus using a dedicated fire starting tool, but that was to be expected. After about 5 minutes, I was able to get the tinder to flame.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of wearing the Wazoo Survival Gear Viking Spark Necklace Black daily, I’ve become more accustomed to its feel and function. There are some minor signs of wear on the leather cord, but the stone and ferro rod remain securely in place. The Arkansas Novaculite has held up surprisingly well.
I’ve practiced using it in various weather conditions, and while it’s not as effortless as a dedicated lighter, it consistently produces sparks, making it a reliable backup. Cleaning is minimal – occasionally wiping the stone and ferro rod to remove debris. Compared to other fire-starting methods I’ve used, the Viking Spark Necklace doesn’t outperform them in terms of speed or ease of use, but its discreet and wearable design makes it a valuable addition to my preparedness arsenal.
Breaking Down the Features of Wazoo Survival Gear Viking Spark Necklace Black
Specifications
The Wazoo Survival Gear Viking Spark Necklace Black comprises several key components. It features a genuine Arkansas Novaculite (600-800 grit) stone with dimensions of 1.9″ x 1″ x 0.25″.
It also includes a 1″ ferro rod, a Black Zirconia ceramic scraper, and a 17″ leather cord with a quick-release latch that has threaded ends. The entire package weighs in at 0.1 lb. These specifications are significant because they directly impact the necklace’s functionality and portability.
Performance & Functionality
The Wazoo Survival Gear Viking Spark Necklace Black is designed primarily for fire starting. The Arkansas Novaculite stone, paired with the Zirconia ceramic scraper, effectively throws sparks when scraped against the ferro rod. The 1″ ferro rod is sufficient for multiple uses, provided it is properly cared for.
The design requires some practice to master the striking technique. One potential weakness is the small size of the components, which may be difficult to manipulate with gloved hands. It meets expectations as a backup fire starter.
Design & Ergonomics
The Wazoo Survival Gear Viking Spark Necklace Black features a simple yet functional design. The Arkansas Novaculite stone is smooth and comfortable to hold. The leather cord is adjustable, allowing for a customized fit.
The quick-release latch is a practical addition, enabling easy removal of the necklace in emergency situations. There is a slight learning curve to using the stone effectively as a striker, but it becomes more intuitive with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Wazoo Survival Gear Viking Spark Necklace Black appears to be reasonably durable. The Arkansas Novaculite is a hard stone that should withstand regular use. The leather cord may eventually wear down with prolonged exposure to the elements.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning of the stone and ferro rod. With proper care, it should last for a considerable time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wazoo Survival Gear Viking Spark Necklace Black comes as a complete package with no additional accessories required for its primary function. There are no customization options in terms of the stone or ferro rod, but the leather cord could be replaced with a different material or length. The quick-release latch could be modified to accept different types of cordage.
Pros and Cons of Wazoo Survival Gear Viking Spark Necklace Black
Pros
- Discreet and Wearable: Can be worn daily without attracting attention, providing a readily available fire-starting tool.
- Durable Materials: The Arkansas Novaculite and Zirconia ceramic scraper are designed to withstand regular use.
- Quick-Release Latch: Enables easy removal of the necklace in emergency situations.
- Reliable Sparking: Consistently produces sparks in various weather conditions with proper technique.
- Lightweight and Compact: Easy to carry without adding significant weight or bulk.
Cons
- Requires Practice: Mastering the striking technique takes time and patience.
- Small Components: May be difficult to manipulate with gloved hands or in cold conditions.
Who Should Buy Wazoo Survival Gear Viking Spark Necklace Black?
The Wazoo Survival Gear Viking Spark Necklace Black is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, survivalists, and anyone looking for a discreet and reliable backup fire starter. It’s especially well-suited for hikers, campers, and backpackers who prioritize lightweight and multi-functional gear. This product also appeals to people with an interest in bushcraft skills.
Someone who relies on fire for their livelihood or frequently needs a quick and easy flame should skip this product. They may find the learning curve and smaller components frustrating. A dedicated fire starter kit might be a better option. A must-have modification would be attaching a small length of jute twine to the necklace for easily accessible tinder.
Conclusion on Wazoo Survival Gear Viking Spark Necklace Black
The Wazoo Survival Gear Viking Spark Necklace Black offers a unique blend of functionality and style. It provides a reliable backup fire-starting method in a discreet and wearable package.
At $70.00, the price may seem steep for a necklace, but the quality of the materials and the peace of mind it offers as a survival tool justify the cost. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a convenient and reliable backup fire starter that can be worn daily. It’s not a replacement for traditional fire-starting methods, but a valuable addition to any preparedness kit.