Gear Convoy Black Gunkote B.U.S.H. Steel Firestarter Review

First Impressions of Gear Convoy Black Gunkote B.U.S.H. Steel Firestarter

The Gear Convoy Black Gunkote B.U.S.H. Steel Firestarter promises a reliable flame source wrapped in a durable, all-in-one package. It features a ferro rod, tinder storage, and a compass. This firestarter aims to be more than just a tool; it is a lifeline for any outdoorsman.

As a seasoned outdoor gear specialist, I’ve encountered countless fire-starting devices, from disposable lighters to high-tech plasma igniters. My search for a dependable and compact fire starter led me to the Gear Convoy. I wanted a tool that could withstand harsh conditions and be easily carried.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the robust feel of the aluminum handle. The Gunkote finish gives it a tactical, no-nonsense aesthetic. The weight feels substantial, suggesting a durable build, while the integrated compass adds a touch of practicality.

Compared to other fire starters I own, like the Light My Fire Swedish FireSteel and the UST BlastMatch, the Gear Convoy stands out due to its self-contained design. The Light My Fire is reliable but lacks tinder storage, and the UST BlastMatch is bulky. I chose the Gear Convoy for its combination of features and compact form factor.

Initially, I was impressed. The quality seems promising, and I was excited to put it through its paces in the field. The question remained: would it live up to the hype?

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Real-World Testing: Putting Gear Convoy Black Gunkote B.U.S.H. Steel Firestarter to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Gear Convoy Black Gunkote B.U.S.H. Steel Firestarter during a weekend backpacking trip in the Cascade Mountains. The weather was typical for the region: damp and unpredictable. I used it to start my camp stove and a small campfire.

The Gear Convoy performed admirably even in the light rain. The ferro rod threw impressive sparks, and the stored tinder (cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly) ignited quickly. It took only a few strikes to get a consistent flame.

The Gear Convoy was easy to use, even with gloved hands. The knurled handle provided a secure grip, and the paracord lanyard kept it readily accessible. There were no immediate issues, and I was pleased with its initial performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Gear Convoy Black Gunkote B.U.S.H. Steel Firestarter has become a staple in my pack. It has accompanied me on numerous hikes, camping trips, and even a few winter snowshoeing adventures. It continues to deliver reliable performance.

The Gunkote finish has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear despite being frequently exposed to the elements. I’ve noticed that the compass accuracy can be slightly affected by nearby metal objects. The compass is functional but not as reliable as a dedicated compass.

Maintenance is simple: I occasionally wipe down the ferro rod and check the tinder storage for moisture. Compared to other fire starters I’ve used, the Gear Convoy requires minimal upkeep and consistently performs. It is a reliable tool for fire starting.

Breaking Down the Features of Gear Convoy Black Gunkote B.U.S.H. Steel Firestarter

Specifications

• The Gear Convoy Black Gunkote B.U.S.H. Steel Firestarter features a durable aluminum handle. The handle is virtually watertight, designed to protect the tinder stored inside.

• It includes a button compass embedded in the handle cap. While functional, this compass is best suited for general direction finding rather than precise navigation.

• The capsule provides approximately 2.25 inches of usable storage space. This is ample room for storing cotton balls, dryer lint, or other preferred tinder.

• The ferro rod has a diameter of 0.3125 inches. This provides a substantial surface area for creating sparks.

• It comes with a paracord lanyard for easy carry and attachment. The lanyard adds to the convenience of having it readily available.

• The entire unit weighs approximately 0.2 lbs. This makes it light enough to carry without adding significant weight to your pack.

• It boasts a Black Gunkote finish. This adds a layer of protection against corrosion and wear.

These specifications are important because they directly influence the reliability and usability of the fire starter. A robust handle protects the tinder, ensuring it remains dry and usable when needed. The substantial ferro rod provides ample opportunity to generate sparks.

Performance & Functionality

The Gear Convoy Black Gunkote B.U.S.H. Steel Firestarter excels at its primary function: reliably starting fires. The ferro rod throws a generous shower of hot sparks, easily igniting most tinder. It consistently produces a flame, even in challenging conditions.

The strength lies in its self-contained design. The integrated tinder storage eliminates the need to carry separate tinder containers. The compass is a bonus, though not a replacement for a dedicated navigation tool.

One area for improvement would be the compass quality. A higher-quality compass would enhance the overall functionality. Overall, the Gear Convoy meets and often exceeds expectations for a fire-starting device.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Gear Convoy Black Gunkote B.U.S.H. Steel Firestarter is impressive. The aluminum handle feels solid and well-constructed, inspiring confidence in its durability. Its weight feels comfortable in hand.

The knurled handle provides a secure grip, even in wet or cold conditions. The paracord lanyard is a practical addition, allowing for easy attachment to a pack or belt loop. There is virtually no learning curve; it’s intuitive and easy to use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Gear Convoy Black Gunkote B.U.S.H. Steel Firestarter is built to last. The Gunkote finish offers excellent protection against corrosion and wear, ensuring long-term durability. It should withstand years of use with proper care.

Maintenance is simple: occasionally wiping down the ferro rod and ensuring the tinder storage remains dry. Minimal effort is required to keep it in top condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Gear Convoy Black Gunkote B.U.S.H. Steel Firestarter comes with a burlap pouch. The burlap pouch provides basic protection during storage.

The primary customization option is the type of tinder stored within the handle. Users can choose their preferred tinder based on personal preference and environmental conditions. The firestarter itself is not designed for significant modifications, but the tinder selection allows for adaptability.

Pros and Cons of Gear Convoy Black Gunkote B.U.S.H. Steel Firestarter