First Impressions of Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro
The Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro is a deceptively simple yet potentially life-saving piece of gear. Manufactured by Shomer-Tec, a company known for its discreet and functional tactical tools, this small ferrocerium rod is designed to replace a standard button on your clothing. Its core function is to reliably start fires in almost any condition.
I stumbled upon the Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro while searching for a minimalist fire-starting solution for my bug-out bag. I wanted something that wouldn’t take up much space, could withstand harsh conditions, and would be readily accessible in an emergency. Traditional ferro rods with bulky handles didn’t quite fit the bill; this seemed like a clever alternative.
Upon receiving the Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro, my first impression was that it was remarkably small and lightweight. It genuinely looks like a standard button, albeit one made of a dark, metallic material. The build quality appears solid, especially considering its size, hinting at its ability to endure the rigors of outdoor use.
I considered several other fire-starting methods before settling on this. I contemplated a mini Bic lighter, but those are prone to failure in cold or wet environments. I also looked at other small ferro rods, but they all seemed too bulky for my minimalist approach. The Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro stood out because it seamlessly integrates into your gear, becoming part of your clothing rather than another item to pack. I was intrigued and hopeful.
Real-World Testing: Putting Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro on a weekend camping trip in the local national forest. The conditions were cool and damp, with a light drizzle throughout the day. This was a perfect opportunity to see how it performed in challenging weather.
Using the Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro required a slightly different technique than a traditional ferro rod. I first scraped small shavings off the magnesium button (purchased separately) onto a tinder bundle of dried leaves and birch bark. Then, holding the ferrocerium button firmly, I struck it with the back of my knife blade, directing the sparks towards the tinder. It took a few tries to get the angle and pressure just right, but once I did, a shower of sparks ignited the magnesium, quickly establishing a flame.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro has proven to be a reliable addition to my survival kit. There are no signs of wear and tear, despite being exposed to various weather conditions and occasional rough handling. The ferrocerium rod shows minimal abrasion.
Maintenance is virtually non-existent. I simply wipe it clean occasionally to remove any dirt or debris. Compared to other fire-starting methods I’ve used in the past, the Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro stands out for its simplicity and durability. It consistently produces a strong shower of sparks, regardless of the weather. It outperforms lighters and matches in wet conditions, and is more reliable than some of the cheaper ferro rods I’ve tried.
Breaking Down the Features of Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro
Specifications
The Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro is a minimalist fire-starting device featuring several key specifications. It has a 0.75″ diameter, making it roughly the size of a standard button. The entire button is constructed from ferrocerium, a material known for its ability to produce hot sparks when struck.
The fire-starting process involves scraping shavings off a separate magnesium button and then striking the ferrocerium button to ignite them. This design matters because it integrates seamlessly into clothing, ensuring a fire-starting tool is always readily available. This eliminates the need to carry a separate, bulky fire starter, which is crucial in survival situations where every ounce and every inch of space counts.
Performance & Functionality
The Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro excels at its primary function: starting fires. Its reliability is its strongest asset. In practice, I’ve found it consistently produces a robust shower of sparks even in damp conditions.
The main strength of the Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro is its compact size and durability. The need for a separate magnesium button adds a slight complexity, but overall it meets expectations. A potential improvement would be to integrate a small striking tool into the button itself.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro is simple and unassuming. The material used is durable ferrocerium. Its small size makes it comfortable to wear as a button on clothing.
The device is fairly user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve to master the striking technique. The integrated button design is innovative.
Durability & Maintenance
The Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro, being made of ferrocerium, is expected to last for a very long time with proper use. Minimal maintenance is required.
It is easy to clean and maintain. Its robust construction suggests a long lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro itself doesn’t come with accessories. The most important accessory is a separate magnesium button, which is necessary to create a readily ignitable tinder.
There are no specific customization options available for this product. However, it can be easily attached to various garments and gear using standard sewing techniques, allowing for personalized placement.
Pros and Cons of Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro
Pros
- Extremely compact and lightweight: Virtually disappears when sewn onto clothing, making it an ideal minimalist survival tool.
- Durable ferrocerium construction: Built to withstand harsh conditions and provide reliable spark generation for many uses.
- Always accessible: Being integrated into clothing ensures you always have a fire-starting tool with you.
- Works in wet conditions: Unlike matches or lighters, ferrocerium continues to produce sparks even when wet.
- Simple and discreet design: Resembles a standard button, making it less conspicuous than traditional fire starters.
Cons
- Requires a separate magnesium button to create readily ignitable tinder, which adds a step to the fire-starting process.
- Requires a sharp striking tool (knife, multi-tool) to generate sparks; if that is lost, so is the ability to start a fire.
Who Should Buy Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro?
The Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro is perfect for minimalist survivalists, backpackers, and anyone looking for a discreet and reliable fire-starting solution. It is also great for preppers looking to integrate fire starting in clothing.
This product is not ideal for those who prefer the convenience of a lighter or those who are unfamiliar with the process of starting fires with ferrocerium rods. A good striking knife must be readily available, or this button is useless.
Conclusion on Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro
The Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro is a clever and well-executed fire-starting device that prioritizes minimalism and reliability. While it requires a separate magnesium button and a striking tool, its compact size, durability, and discreet design make it a valuable addition to any survival kit.
At $16.00, the price is justified by its unique functionality and quality construction. It is a more specialized tool.
I would recommend the Shomer-Tec Fire Button Ferro to anyone looking for a reliable and discreet fire-starting solution for their outdoor adventures or emergency preparedness kit. Sew it onto your jacket, your backpack, or your belt, and rest assured that you’ll always have the means to create a fire. It’s a small investment that could potentially make a big difference.