L1-FIR-01 — Non-consumable ignition source
“A ferrocerium rod of at least 6 mm diameter, functional when wet and below freezing.”
L1-FIR-01 requires a non-consumable ignition source that functions wet and below freezing — the two conditions under which a lighter fails and a student most needs fire. The Army model's larger rod is the one to buy: the smaller Scout version is harder to use with gloves, which is exactly when it matters.
What it does well
- Throws sparks reliably when soaked
- Large rod is usable with cold or gloved hands
- Effectively a lifetime tool at field-session frequency
What to know before you buy
- Requires prepared tinder — it is not a substitute for tinder discipline
- Striker is mediocre; the knife spine works better