Coghlans Fire Disc Review

First Thoughts on the Coghlans Fire Disc

The Coghlans Fire Disc is a compact and inexpensive fire-starting solution from Coghlan’s, a well-known name in outdoor gear. Its simple design and promise of easy ignition make it an appealing option for campers, hikers, and anyone needing a reliable way to start a fire. My initial impression is that it’s a no-frills product designed for functionality over bells and whistles.

I was searching for a reliable and lightweight fire starter to add to my bug-out bag. I needed something more dependable than matches and easier to use than a ferro rod, particularly in adverse weather. The Coghlans Fire Disc seemed to fit the bill, promising a hot and sustained flame even in damp conditions.

Upon unboxing (or unwrapping, as it were), the Coghlans Fire Disc presents itself as a dense, solid disc. It has a waxy feel and a distinct cedar aroma, hinting at its composition. The disc is surprisingly heavy for its size, suggesting a tightly packed blend of materials.

Compared to other fire starters like commercially produced fire starter cubes or homemade wax-and-sawdust concoctions, the Coghlans Fire Disc seemed more durable and less prone to crumbling. I considered petroleum-based fire starters, but wanted something with a more natural composition. The blend of cedar and wax in this disc influenced my decision.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The simplicity of the design was appealing, but I was eager to test its real-world performance. Would it truly light easily and burn hot, as advertised?

Real-World Testing: Putting Coghlans Fire Disc to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Coghlans Fire Disc was during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was damp and overcast, presenting a realistic scenario for needing a reliable fire starter. I used a small piece broken off from the disc to ignite a pile of tinder comprised of dry leaves and twigs.

The Coghlans Fire Disc lit almost instantly with a single match strike. The flame was strong and steady, quickly transferring to the tinder. Even with a slight breeze and dampness in the air, the disc continued to burn intensely.

The ease of use was impressive. There was no need for special techniques or excessive fanning to get the fire going. I experienced no issues at all in getting the fire started quickly and efficiently.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of sporadic use on various camping and hiking trips, the Coghlans Fire Disc has proven to be a reliable fire starter. The disc remains intact and retains its ability to ignite easily. It lives in a Ziploc bag in my pack.

The disc shows no significant signs of wear and tear. Even after being broken into multiple pieces, each fragment retains its integrity. The Coghlans Fire Disc has proven to be a durable and long-lasting fire-starting solution.

Maintenance is virtually nonexistent. Because the disc is made of wax and cedar, it doesn’t require any cleaning or special storage. It does tend to pick up loose debris from the bag, so putting it in a plastic bag is a good idea.

Compared to petroleum-based fire starters I’ve used in the past, the Coghlans Fire Disc is a more pleasant and environmentally friendly option. It performs just as well, if not better, and doesn’t leave behind any unpleasant odors or residues. The Coghlans Fire Disc consistently outperforms matches in windy or damp conditions.

Breaking Down the Features of Coghlans Fire Disc

Specifications

• The Coghlans Fire Disc is made of cedar and highly refined wax. This combination provides both a readily combustible fuel source and a water-resistant coating.
• The disc is designed to break apart into quarter sections. This allows for controlled usage and multiple fire starts.
• Each disc is intended to burn hot for approximately 30 minutes. This provides ample time to ignite tinder and kindling, even in challenging conditions.
• The compact size and light weight make it easy to carry in a backpack or survival kit. It’s a minimal addition to any outdoor gear setup.
• The Coghlans Fire Disc is marketed as an emergency heat source for cooking. Its reliable flame makes it a useful tool for preparing food in a survival situation.

Performance & Functionality

The Coghlans Fire Disc excels at its primary function: starting fires quickly and reliably. Its consistent flame and ease of ignition make it a valuable asset in any outdoor setting. It performs exceptionally well, particularly in situations where traditional fire-starting methods may struggle.

Its main strength lies in its simplicity and dependability. It requires no special skills or tools to use, making it accessible to anyone. The biggest weakness is its sensitivity to direct flame.

The Coghlans Fire Disc meets and even exceeds expectations. For such a simple product, it offers exceptional performance and value.

Design & Ergonomics

The Coghlans Fire Disc boasts a simple, functional design. The disc shape makes it easy to handle and break into smaller pieces.

The Coghlans Fire Disc is incredibly user-friendly. Even someone with no fire-starting experience can use it effectively. The simplicity is its biggest appeal.

Durability & Maintenance

The Coghlans Fire Disc is designed for long-term storage and use. Its wax coating protects the cedar core from moisture and prevents degradation.

Maintenance is minimal. Simply store the disc in a cool, dry place.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Coghlans Fire Disc doesn’t require any specific accessories. It is a standalone fire-starting solution. Because of its simplicity, there are no customization options for the Coghlans Fire Disc.

The Coghlans Fire Disc is compatible with any tinder and kindling. It can be used with traditional fire-starting tools like ferro rods or matches. However, it works perfectly fine on its own.

Pros and Cons of Coghlans Fire Disc

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Who Should Buy Coghlans Fire Disc?

The Coghlans Fire Disc is perfect for campers, hikers, backpackers, and survivalists. Anyone who needs a reliable and easy-to-use fire starter will benefit from this product. It is especially useful for beginners who are still learning fire-starting techniques.

Those who prefer more sophisticated or multi-functional fire-starting tools may want to skip this product. Also, those looking for a fire starter with a very long burn time might need a larger fuel source. This is a minimal solution for short-term use.

A must-have accessory is a small knife or multi-tool to break the disc into smaller pieces. A waterproof container or bag is also recommended to keep the disc clean and dry.

Conclusion on Coghlans Fire Disc

The Coghlans Fire Disc is a simple yet effective fire-starting solution that delivers on its promises. Its reliable ignition, long burn time, and compact size make it a valuable addition to any outdoor gear collection. At a price of $2.49, the value proposition is undeniable.

I would personally recommend the Coghlans Fire Disc to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable fire starter. Its ease of use and consistent performance make it a worthwhile investment. It’s a great backup for wet or challenging conditions.

Don’t get caught in the cold and dark. Grab a Coghlans Fire Disc and be prepared to spark a life-saving flame whenever and wherever you need it!

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