The Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black Made a Bold First Impression
The Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black isn’t just another fire starter; it’s a promise of warmth and security in the wild. Offered by Proforce Equipment, it aims to be a reliable tool for anyone needing to quickly create a fire in challenging conditions. I’ve spent years testing survival gear, and a dependable fire steel is non-negotiable for any outdoor kit.
My old flint and magnesium block failed me on a particularly wet backpacking trip in the Cascades. The constant scraping to get a spark, coupled with damp tinder, was an exercise in frustration. I needed something more robust and reliable.
Unboxing the Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black, I was immediately impressed by its heft. The build quality appeared solid, especially for its price point. The black coating on the steel rod looked durable, suggesting it could withstand significant use.
Compared to a smaller, keychain fire steel I previously used, the Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black felt like a serious upgrade. Its size gave me more confidence, as did the substantial-looking striker. I also considered a similar product from Light My Fire, but the Proforce Equipment offered a larger striking surface for roughly the same cost. My initial reaction was one of hopeful anticipation, confident it could outperform my previous experiences with inferior fire starters.
Real-World Testing: Putting Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was a simple backyard fire pit scenario. I wanted to get a feel for the Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black before taking it into a more demanding environment. Even with minimal effort, the striker produced a shower of hot sparks.
Next, I took it on a rainy overnight camping trip in the Allegheny National Forest. Despite the dampness, the Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black performed admirably. With a little prep work to find dry tinder, I quickly started a fire that lasted through the night. The size of the fire steel was helpful in creating more sparks and faster ignition compared to smaller ferro rods I’ve used.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black continues to be a reliable piece of kit. There’s minimal wear on the ferrocerium rod, and the black coating on the handle shows only minor scratches. I typically clean the striker with a quick wipe after each use to remove any soot or debris.
Compared to my experience with magnesium blocks, which often crumble and become difficult to use, the Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black has been consistently dependable. The substantial size and durable construction have outperformed my expectations, especially considering its low price. It’s become my go-to fire starter for all outdoor activities.
Breaking Down the Features of Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black
Specifications
- Size: Large. This provides a substantial amount of ferrocerium, allowing for numerous uses.
- Dimensions: 2.16″ x .35″. These dimensions make it compact enough to easily carry but large enough for effective sparking.
- Weight: 1.7 oz. Its lightweight design is ideal for backpacking and situations where every ounce counts.
- Color: Black. This provides a non-reflective finish that is discreet and reduces glare.
These specifications are crucial for performance. The size and weight ensure portability and usability. The dimensions guarantee sufficient sparking capability.
Performance & Functionality
The Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black excels at consistently generating hot, effective sparks. Even in wet conditions, it provides a reliable ignition source. Its simplicity is its strength; there are no moving parts to break or malfunction.
However, the striker can be a bit small for those with larger hands, potentially making it slightly awkward to use. Overall, the Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black far exceeds my expectations, especially considering its affordability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black features a simple, functional design. The black coating provides a secure grip, even when wet. The striker, while small, is effective for generating sparks.
There’s no real learning curve. Even a novice can quickly master using it.
Durability & Maintenance
The Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black appears to be built to last. The ferrocerium rod is dense and shows minimal wear after months of use. Maintenance is minimal; just keep the striker clean and dry.
With proper care, this fire steel should easily last for hundreds, if not thousands, of strikes. This makes it a great long-term investment for anyone who values preparedness.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black comes with only the fire steel and striker. There are no included accessories. However, it pairs well with various tinders, such as cotton balls coated in petroleum jelly or commercially available fire starters.
You can also attach a lanyard for easy carrying, using the hole in the handle. The Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black is compatible with any standard striker or knife blade, offering customization options for creating sparks.
Pros and Cons of Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black
Pros
- Reliable Sparking: Consistently generates hot sparks, even in wet conditions.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials built to last.
- Lightweight and Compact: Easy to carry in a backpack, pocket, or survival kit.
- Easy to Use: Minimal learning curve, even for beginners.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for its performance and durability.
Cons
- Striker Size: The striker can be small for users with large hands.
- Basic Design: Lacks any advanced features or ergonomic enhancements.
Who Should Buy Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black?
The Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black is perfect for campers, hikers, backpackers, survivalists, and anyone who needs a reliable fire-starting tool. It’s also ideal for preppers and anyone building a bug-out bag.
Those looking for advanced features or a more ergonomic design may want to explore other options. This is a basic, functional tool. A good quality knife or a ferro rod with a larger handle could be considered as an alternative.
A must-have accessory is a reliable tinder source, such as waxed cotton balls, as the Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black itself only provides the spark.
Conclusion on Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black
The Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black is a simple, reliable, and affordable fire-starting tool that delivers on its promises. For the price of $9.99, it’s hard to find a better value. It’s durable, easy to use, and consistently generates hot sparks.
I would highly recommend the Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black to anyone needing a dependable fire starter for outdoor adventures or emergency preparedness. Don’t wait for a survival situation to test your fire-starting skills; get the Proforce Equipment Fire Steel and Striker Large, Black today and be prepared for anything.