20 Best Bushcraft Fire Starting Tools And Kits 2023
From warmth to warding off wild animals, to boiling water and cooking food, the ability to create fire is undeniably essential for survival. But what if the matches are wet? Or the lighter runs out of fuel?
A fire starter is not just a tool. It is the difference between a dark, cold night and a warm, safe refuge.
Having a bushcraft fire starting tool in your kit provides certainty amidst uncertainty, warmth in cold conditions, safety in unfamiliar territories, and the ability to cook food or boil water wherever you are.
From the seasoned outdoor adventurer to the prudent city dweller preparing for power outages, everyone should be equipped with the knowledge and tools to start a fire in any condition.
Luckily, we have 20 of the best bushcraft fire starting tools and kits for 2023. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced survivalist, we’ve got you covered.
So, are you ready to become a fire-starting pro? Let’s begin.
Our Top Picks
In This Guide
The 20 Best Survival Fire Starters
- Made of durable and high-quality materials
- Provides a sure grip
- Offers a safe, efficient way to create sparks and scrape materials
- Stands the test of time and outperforms common alternatives
- Larger size might not be ideal for those looking for ultra-compact equipment
- Initial cost may be higher compared to less durable alternatives
The Fire-Fast Trekker carries over a century of craftsmanship in its core. It is crafted from genuine Austrian ferrocerium, a blend of 76% rare earth metal, 20% iron, 2% magnesium, and 2% anti-corrosives.
This combination ensures a superior fire starting experience with an intense burst of heat and flame, even under the harshest conditions.
Added to this fire starter is a military-grade magnesium rod. A few scrapes against the striker, and your fire is well on its way — no need to fret about damp conditions or scarce fire-starting materials.
It also includes a hardwood handle that ensures a secure grip even with numb fingers. Beyond its ergonomic purpose, this handle can be scraped to produce dry tinder. Now that’s versatility!
- Produces a shower of sparks instantly
- Eliminates the need for separate tools
- Straightforward to use
- Provides 3+ hours of continuous burn time
- A bit expensive
- Those accustomed to traditional fire starters might take a bit of getting used to
This Survival Torch is your reliable companion when it comes to starting a fire anywhere.
It allows you to produce a shower of sparks that are guided directly to the wick, igniting your fire fast and effectively, no matter the weather conditions.
And here’s the cherry on top — no more juggling a separate ferrocerium rod, tinder wick, striker, and bellow. This tool bundles them all into one neat package. This means you get a sensible all-in-one survival tool.
- Includes a 4-in-1 ferro rod fire starter kit
- Weather-resistant magnesium fire starter rod
- Made from premium materials
- Wooden handle that can handle wear and tear
- The lanyard seems pointless as it cannot be used for the leather carrying pouch for the ferro rod, or put the rod itself and the striker on it
The Holtzman’s Gorilla Survival Fire Starter Gift Set features a ferro rod that is easy to use. It also comes with a wooden handle that provides a comfortable grip.
With its heavy-duty ferro rod, weatherproof magnesium fire starter rod, and comfortable wooden handle, this kit is perfect for any outdoor adventure or emergency situation.
Plus, this kit comes with a leather sheath that you can easily attach to your belt, backpack, or any other gear.
- Burns even when wet and in the harshest of conditions
- Comes with a stormproof match case to keep your matches dry and protected
- A must-have for camping and survival use
- Matches can be difficult to light
- The case can be bulky to carry around
The UCO Waterproof Fire Starter Matches come in a durable, stormproof plastic container that keeps your matches safe and dry. These matches light up effortlessly and stay lit, even in wet conditions.
However, one downside some users reported is the difficulty in lighting the matches, so it may take some practice to get the hang of it.
Still, if you need matches that won’t let you down in a storm, opt for the UCO stormproof matches. They’re designed to take on wet, windy, and even extreme weather. Now that’s reliability!
- Quick and easy to use
- Provides a steady, strong burn for 30 minutes
- Waterproof and windproof
- Limited burn time
This fire starter is designed to ignite a roaring fire in just five seconds — no flame needed.
Here’s how it works: After pulling the string, you’ll notice a safety smoke, signaling the start of the process. In just 3 seconds, a flame from an eco-friendly ignition pack lights up the brick, which then burns steadily for 30 minutes.
It’s a seamless, efficient, and safe process. It’s waterproof and windproof, ready to spark a flame in any weather condition. It can light wet wood with ease and can start a fire even in winds of over 200+MPH.
What’s more, this fire starter guarantees a quality burn. It doesn’t just flicker and die out. It keeps your fire going strong for a solid 30 minutes, making it ideal for cooking food like s’mores or BBQ.
- TFerro rod can produce sparks that reach a temperature of 5,500°F
- Includes a waterproof large tinder fire starter rope that is easy to ignite.
- High-quality ferrocerium and magnesium combination that can withstand more than 15,000 strikes
- Ferro rod is a bit small and may be difficult to handle
- A bit heavy for ultralight backpackers
The Bushcraft Survival Ferro Rod Fire Starter Kit & Backpacking Multitool is your lightweight and compact solution for all fire-starting needs. Its design allows for easy transport, whether stowed away in your backpack or worn around your neck.
Comfort is not overlooked, with a handcrafted cherry wood handle ensuring a secure grip as you strike. Attached to this is a two-feet paracord lanyard that holds the steel flint striker.
This robust tool offers more than just the striking functionality; it also boasts an integrated hex wrench, an edge with teeth for efficient scraping, a ruler, and even a bottle opener, making it a versatile companion for the outdoors.
This kit includes a waterproof jumbo tinder rope, an innovative blend of wax-infused natural hemp. Its unique composition allows it to instantly catch sparks from the ferro rod, enabling fire creation in any weather condition.
- Works in any weather condition
- Each box comes with two fire starters, doubling your value
- Includes a compass, whistle, scraper, and paracord, all in a handy, lightweight design
- Small enough to fit in your pocket without causing discomfort
- Position of the striker hole could be improved for a more comfortable usage
- Included compass might not meet everyone's expectations
The Swiss Safe fire starter is a compact, lightweight fire starter that fits right into your pocket, ready to spring into action when you need it. It’s an instant fire starter that lets you ignite a fire in any weather condition with its magnesium rod.
What’s even better? You get not one but two fire starters in each box. And that’s not all. Each fire starter comes with a unique multi-tool design.
It includes a built-in compass for navigation, a 150dB whistle for emergency signaling, a steel scraper, and a 450-pound 8-core paracord. Plus, the rod itself.
Here’s how it works: You use the included knife to make shavings from the magnesium rod. Then you use the dull side of the blade to create sparks that ignite the magnesium shavings, transforming them into a blazing fire.
And remember, this isn’t some new-fangled, complicated gadget. Instead, it’s a straightforward survival tool that’ll keep you prepared.
- Easy to start, and once lit, it quickly burns
- Each rope contains 33 strands, which can light 50+ fires that burn for over 4.5 hours
- Waterproof, windproof, and failproof
- Odorless and non-toxic
- Might take some practice to get the hang of cutting off the desired amount and rolling the fibers in your hands to create a ball or nest
The Black Beard Fire Starter Rope is a must-have for every backpacker or bug out bag.
With its infinite shelf-life, it’s designed to always ignite, never deteriorate, and is a dependable choice for survival kits.
Compact yet durable, it catches flame quickly and maintains it for an impressive duration.
So whether you are camping, hiking, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Black Beard Fire Starter Rope is the perfect tool to help you stay warm and safe.
- Extra-large size provides more sparks
- Rods are waterproof and weatherproof, perfect for any conditions
- Each rod can last more than 12,000 strikes, providing reliable and durable use
- May take some time to get used to, especially for beginners
- Needs a high-carbon steel striker for the best results
The EricX Light Fire Starter is a versatile and reliable fire starter that can be used in any weather conditions. Each pack contains two six-inch long and half-inch in diameter rods, providing unbeatable value for your money.
Its extra-large size and super thick rod make it highly durable, providing you with a decent shower of sparks to light fires instantly.
Equipped with a lanyard hole for secure storage, these rods are the perfect addition to your survival kit.
What’s more, each rod can last for more than 12,000 strikes, providing you with long-lasting reliability.
- Premium wax-enriched jute ropes guarantee instant ignition
- Proprietary wax-infused hemp cord works in different weather conditions
- Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry
- Included sleeve for snuffing out the flame can be a bit tricky to use at first
- Rope burns relatively quickly
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use fire starter, the BUSHCRAFT Survival Fire Starter Tinder Rope is definitely worth considering.
This fire starter is a great choice for anyone who wants a reliable and easy-to-use way to start a fire in any weather conditions.
The wax-infused jute ropes are expertly crafted to ignite immediately from the spark of ferro rods, simplifying fire-starting and eliminating the necessity for matches or lighters.
Plus, the lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry with you wherever you go, making it a great addition to your survival gear.
- Large and robust rod provides a solid grip
- Throws an impressive shower of hot sparks, ensuring quick fire-starting
- Versatile and performs efficiently in any climate and altitude
- To generate sparks, you need to strike with significant pressure
This bayite Ferro Rod six-inch long, approx half-inch in diameter ferrocerium rod isn’t just big — it’s extraordinarily robust.
With a single strike, it throws an impressive shower of hot sparks, instantly igniting a fire, even in challenging conditions.
It’s also windproof, weather-resistant, and perfectly suited to perform in any climate, any altitude.
This tool is capable of producing up to 3000-degree Celsius sparks, which can last for an impressive 12,000 strikes, making it ideal for a variety of uses.
- Made of eco-friendly biobased plastic
- Ergonomic design for easy grip in wet conditions or with gloves
- Can provide up to 12,000 strikes
- Lanyard may be too short for some users
- Striker may not be as durable as the rod
This fire starter kit is made of biobased plastic, which is a great substitute for fossil-based plastics, making it an eco-friendly option.
Featuring an ergonomic design, this fire starter ensures a secure grip in all conditions — whether it’s raining or you’re wearing gloves. Plus, with a capacity of up to 12,000 strikes, you can count on its dependability for many years.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast or camper, the Light My Fire Army – Flint and Steel Fire Starter Kit is perfect for you. It’s reliable and easy to use, making it an essential tool for any camping trip or emergency situation.
- Large contact surface creates more sparks
- Designed to be high effective with zero fail points
- Oversized design of the ferro rod allows you to easily achieve 20,000+ strikes
- A bit heavy
The Flint and Steel Fire Starter Kit features a hexagonal shape of the ferro rod that provides a larger contact surface for more sparks. So it’s easier to start a fire quickly.
Additionally, the ferro rod is designed to be highly effective with zero fail points, allowing you to spray 5500 ºF sparks effortlessly.
This kit comes with everything you need to start a fire, including a ferro rod, striker, paracord, emergency whistle, carabiner, multitool striker, cotton tiner, and waterproof tinder box.
All these elements are neatly packaged to provide you with everything you need to kindle a fire, regardless of your location or conditions.
- KeroDry-infused hemp wick is perfect for any weather condition
- Anodized aluminum sleeve offers burn rate control and enables you to safely extinguish the flame
- Tindår wick not only sparks your fire but can also act as a bellow
- 13-inch length may be too long for some users
- Aluminum sleeve may get hot after prolonged use
This fire starter, composed of KeroDry paraffin-wax infused hemp, simplifies the process of kindling a fire. Its hexagonal shape not only aids in effective heat dispersal but also ensures the starter remains cool to the touch.
The Tindår wick doubles as a minimalist bellow, perfect for small or solo fires. Simply pull the wick out and get bellowing to help your fire flare up, the Tindår has your back. No matter how wet it is, the Tindår wick will light.
Plus, the anodized aluminum sleeve allows you to control the burn rate or snuff out the flame by sliding the sleeve.
The Überleben Tindår comes with an aluminum slider box, perfect for starting a mini fire or survival kit. Store your wick and ferro rod in the slider box, and you’re good to go.
It also has a burn time of 60 minutes, so it’s an ideal choice for camping, hiking, or any outdoor adventure.
With its KeroDry infused hemp wick, anodized aluminum sleeve, and minimalist bellow, the Tindår has everything you need to start a fire in any condition.
- Anyone can use it to start a fire with ease
- Waterproof and reliable in even the worst conditions
- Comes with two large wax-infused Jute sections that will catch sparks and ignite into a hot fire in any weather
- The handle may not be comfortable for some users
- Jute rope may not last as long as expected
This fire starter is perfect for anyone who needs to start a fire in the wilderness. Whether you’re camping or hiking, this kit is easy to use and will reliably start a fire in any weather conditions.
The large ⅜-inch diameter ferrocerium rod is made of a premium material blend that will provide over 15,000 strikes of hot sparks.
The solid wood handle and 550 paracord lanyard provide a sure grip while striking. Plus, the included wax-infused Jute sections are easy to light and will catch sparks and ignite quickly.
While the handle may not be comfortable for some users, the Coopers Bay Outdoors Ferro Rod Fire Starter and Tinder Kit is still a great option for anyone who needs a reliable fire starter.
It’s waterproof, easy to use, and comes with everything you need to start a fire in any weather conditions.
- Easy ignition and versatile use
- Long burn time — over 3 hours
- Flame control with one hand
- Compact and lightweight for easy transportation
- Some practice required to light it with the first couple of strikes
- More expensive than traditional matches
Infused with wax, this hemp-made fire-starter rope showcases robust reliability and longevity, clocking in a total burn time of more than three hours.
This tool comes with a significant 39-inch wick that can be portioned out into several smaller pieces for better control and ease of use when igniting your fires.
Weighing in at less than one ounce, it fits easily into any pocket or pack.
Safely manage your flame burn rate with one hand, extend the fire rope for a larger flame, or retract back into the tube to extinguish your flame completely. It’s that simple.
- Creates a lot of sparks, making it easier to start a fire
- Wooden handle provides a comfortable grip
- Paracord strap is a useful addition that can also be used as a measuring tool
- Ferro Rod might be too long for some people's needs
The Friendly Swede Ferro Rods are a great option for anyone who loves spending time outdoors and needs a reliable fire starter. The Ferro Rod is long enough to provide up to 10,000 fire starts, which is impressive.
The wooden handle is comfortable to hold and looks great, adding a touch of style to your camping gear.
One of the best things about The Friendly Swede Ferro Rods is the paracord strap that comes with it. The strap is long and also connects the Ferro Rod to the attached striker, making it easy to keep everything together.
- The extra-large and super-thick rod
- 9ft paracord handle provides a good grip and never comes off
- Striker-Pro striker made from tool-grade HSS steel maximizes a shower of hot sparks
- This fire starter provides up to 3000 degrees C spark in all weather
- Diameter of the rod might be too large for some users.
- Striker might not work as well as advertised with some knives or blades
If you’re tired of dealing with unreliable matches or lighters, the Bayite Survival Drilled Flint Steel Fire Starter might be a great alternative for you.
With its durable and weather-resistant design, this fire starter can help you start a fire quickly and easily, even in challenging conditions.
The extra-large and super-thick rod produces a massive shower of hot sparks to light a fire instantly, while the paracord handle provides a good grip and never comes off.
The Striker-Pro striker made from tool-grade HSS steel maximizes a shower of hot sparks, no matter whether you prefer to use your left hand or right hand to scrape.
This fire starter provides up to 3000 degrees C spark in all weather, at any altitude, and lasts for approximately 12,000 strikes, making it a reliable emergency fire starter.
- Easy to use and fosters primitive techniques in fire-making
- High-quality components for enhanced durability
- Pre-assembled with jute tinder included
- Occasional quality issues with the string and missing parts
- Lack of instructions provided for setting up and use
This set allows you to create fire using primitive methods, making survival skills more enjoyable than ever. This set comes assembled for you; it even comes with jute tinder, so you can start using it as soon as it arrives.
There’s no need for additional assembly — just pure frictional fire skills experience.
High-quality components are at the core of this kit. The bow and handle are crafted from superior bamboo, ensuring smooth operation that’s gentle on your hands.
Also, the fire board utilizes high-quality paulownia wood and reserves 10 holes. The inner core of the rope boasts seven high-strength polyester cores, delivering remarkable bearing capacity and excellent wear resistance.
Simply keep drilling the fire board vertically until you generate smoke by friction with the wrapped string of the bamboo handle, and you’ll have your fire.
It’s a system designed for quick and straightforward use, allowing you to master this age-old technique effortlessly.
- Weatherproof
- Durable and can be used thousands of times
- Compact and portable design makes it easily fit into any bag or even your pocket
- Easy to use with just a few strikes
- Some users found they had to remove the cord to get a better strike
This magnesium fire starter is a waterproof, compact fire starter that you can carry anywhere.
Each box holds two magnesium rods, easily scraped off with a striker, creating sparks from the flint to ignite a fire in any weather condition. Plus, they can be used thousands of times.
The red waxed flax in the Paracord is waterproof fire tinder. It lights up instantly, even in the heaviest downpour. The same goes for the solid magnesium fuel bar, flint, and steel scraper.
Remember how you used to carry that regular lighter around? Worried about lighter fluid spills, broken casings, or simply running out of fluid? Let’s put those worries to rest.
This Magnesium Fire Starter is an improvement on all fronts. It’s more durable, safer, and won’t let you down when you need it most.
Types Of Fire Starters
Now let’s delve into the world of fire-starting tools. These come in a variety of types, each designed to suit different needs and skill levels.
Matches and Lighters
The most common tools for starting a fire, matches and lighters, are easy to use and very portable. However, they have their drawbacks.
Matches can get wet and unusable, and lighters can run out of fuel or break. That’s why they are often supplemented with other fire-starting tools in outdoor survival kits.
Magnesium Fire Starters
These are compact tools that use a magnesium rod, which is scraped to create sparks. The sparks are caught by tinder, which then ignites the fire. They are reliable and can work in any weather condition, but require a certain level of skill and practice to use effectively.
Flint and Steel
This traditional method uses a piece of high-carbon steel and a piece of flint. Striking the steel against the flint generates sparks, which then ignite tinder. Although this method requires practice, it’s durable and reliable, working even when wet.
Ferrocerium Rods
Often referred to as “ferro rods,” these tools produce sparks when scraped with a rough edge or striker. They’re similar to magnesium fire starters but create hotter sparks, making it easier to ignite tinder.
Fire Pistons
A bit more complex, fire pistons use the principle of rapid compression to ignite a piece of tinder. When the piston is quickly compressed, it heats the air inside, causing the tinder to ignite. This method requires more finesse but can be very effective when mastered.
Friction-based Fire Starters
These include bow drills, hand drills, and fire ploughs. They use the heat generated from friction to start a fire. While they don’t require any special materials, they do require a great deal of skill and effort to use effectively.
Solar Ignition
Tools like magnifying glasses, fresnel lenses, or even a polished can bottom use the sun’s rays to ignite tinder. Of course, this method only works in sunny conditions, and it can take some time to get a fire going.
What To Look For When Buying The Best Bushcraft Fire Starting Tools And Kits
When it comes to bushcraft fire starting, having the right tools can make all the difference.
With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best product for your needs.
Here are some factors to consider when selecting a fire starter:
Type of Fire Starter
Choosing the right fire-starting tool for your wilderness adventure is crucial and depends on your skill level and the expected conditions.
For beginners or mild conditions, simple tools like lighters or waterproof matches are ideal due to their ease of use.
For harsher environments or unpredictable conditions, durable and weather-resistant fire starters like magnesium starters or ferrocerium rods are recommended. They generate sparks even when wet, offering reliability in tough situations.
Experienced bushcrafters might prefer traditional methods like bow drills or flint and steel. While they require more skill, they offer the satisfaction of mastering primitive skills.
Always ensure you understand your needs, prepare for the conditions you’ll face, and practice using your tool beforehand for a successful experience.
Size and Portability
When choosing a fire starter, consider how small and lightweight it is. You don’t want to be carrying around a bulky tool that takes up too much space in your backpack.
Look for fire starters that are compact and easy to carry, like a piece of flint or a fire strip roll.
Ease Of Use
Some fire starters require more skill and practice to use effectively.
If you’re new to bushcraft fire starting, you may want to choose a tool that is easy to use, like waterproof matches or fire steel.
Consider how easy it is to ignite your tinder with the tool and how much fuel it requires.
Tinder And Fuel Source
No matter what type of fire starter you choose, you’ll need to have the right tinder and fuel source to create a successful fire.
Some popular tinder options include birch bark, char cloth, cotton balls, and fire plugs.
Look for fire starters that come with their own tinder, or that can easily ignite the tinder you have on hand.
Durability And Burn Time
When selecting a fire starter, consider how long it will last and how many fires you can start with it.
Look for fire starters that have a long burning time and are made from durable materials.
Some fire starters, like ferro rods, can last for thousands of strikes, while others may only last for a few uses.
How To Use A Fire Starting Tool
Regardless of the fire-starting tool you choose, the technique generally remains the same. Let’s break it down into simple steps:
1. Prepare Your Fire Site
Choose a safe and open location for your fire. Remove any flammable debris and clear an area down to bare dirt.
Arrange your firewood in your chosen fire structure (teepee, log cabin, etc.) and ensure you have easy access to add more wood once the fire starts.
2. Prepare Your Tinder
Gather small, dry, and highly combustible materials. This could be dried grass, leaves, wood shavings, or cotton balls. You want materials that catch fire quickly.
If you have a commercial fire starter or homemade tinder (like wax-covered cotton), place it at the base of your fire structure.
3. Use Your Fire Starter
Depending on your tool, the method will vary:
- Matches/Lighters: Light your match or lighter and hold it under your tinder until it catches fire.
- Ferrocerium Rod/Magnesium Starters: Scrape your striker or a knife down the length of the rod towards the tinder. This should create sparks that will ignite the tinder. If you’re using a magnesium starter, first shave off small magnesium flakes onto the tinder, then strike the flint side to ignite the magnesium.
- Flint and Steel: Strike the steel against the flint to generate sparks. Aim these sparks onto your tinder to ignite it.
- Bow Drill: Using a bowing motion, rotate the drill stick onto your fire board to create friction and heat.
Once you see smoke, continue the motion for a few more seconds, then gently blow on the generated ember to ignite the tinder.
4. Nurture the Fire
Once the tinder is ignited, gently blow on it to provide oxygen, which fuels the fire. Add more tinder, then gradually add kindling (small twigs, branches), and then gradually larger pieces of firewood.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some primitive ways to start a fire?
Primitive ways to start a fire include using a hand drill, bow drill, fire plow, and flint and steel. These methods require skill and practice, but they can be effective in starting a fire without modern tools.
What is the easiest way to start a fire in the woods?
The easiest way to start a fire in the woods is to use a lighter or matches. Make sure to gather dry tinder and kindling before attempting to start the fire.
You can also use a fire starter that is designed to work in wet conditions, such as a magnesium fire starter.
How do you make fire starters with sawdust?
To make fire starters with sawdust, you need to mix the sawdust with a binder such as wax or petroleum jelly.
Once the mixture is combined, you can shape it into small balls or cubes. These fire starters can be used to start a fire quickly and easily.
What are some DIY natural fire starters?
Some DIY natural fire starters include using dryer lint, cotton balls dipped in wax, and pine cones dipped in wax.
These materials can be easily found around the house or in the woods and can be used to start a fire without relying on modern tools.
Remember, starting a fire in the wilderness requires skill and practice. Always be prepared and carry multiple fire-starting tools.
Key Takeaways For The 20 Best Bushcraft Fire Starting Tools And Kits In 2023
Remember, fire can be the difference between life and death in an emergency. The ability to ignite a flame in all weather conditions is a skill that should not be underestimated.
We all know that it’s important to have a reliable fuel source. However, wet conditions and windy conditions can make starting a fire more challenging. But with enough heat and the right skills, you can still get a fire going.
Good thing our list of the best fire starting tools are easy to use and can be a lifesaver in emergency situations.
But remember, mastering the art of fire-making requires more than just owning the right tools. With enough hands-on experience, becoming an expert at starting fires in all conditions is within your reach.
So step outside, start experimenting, and embrace the journey to becoming a master of bushcraft fire starting.
