Having the best fire starter is essential for any outdoor enthusiast or survivalist. This simple yet indispensable tool can mean the difference between enjoying a hot meal or going hungry, or even between life and death in an emergency. With the right fire starter by your side, you can easily and quickly start a fire to warm up, cook food or signal for help, or even starting up charcoal grills.
If you are looking for the best Fire Starter for your outdoors need, we have curated the best 8 Fire Starter for you, from traditional firestarters to modern firestarters, and a paperback for you to read on Bushcraft - The Bow Drill Bible (#2):
- Bow Drill Kit Fire Starter
- Bushcraft - The Bow Drill Bible. Paperback
- Ferrocerium (Fire Steel) Drilled Flint Fire Starters
- Ferro Rod Fire Starter with Tinder Wick Rope
- Magnesium Waterproof Firestarter
- Permanent Match Fire Starter
- Solar Fire Spark Starter
- USB Rechargeable Lighter
- 15 Pieces Emergency Fire-Making Kit
There's something magical about the flickering flames of a campfire, or the comforting warmth of a fireplace on a chilly winter night. But as any outdoors enthusiast or survivalist will tell you, starting a fire isn't always as easy as it seems.
Whether you're camping in the wilderness or your backyard with your fire pit, or simply trying to ignite a wet pile of kindling, having the right fire starter can make all the difference. From the humble match to the high-tech fire starter, there are many products on the market to choose from.
In one of our blogs, we discussed the different ways to start a fire, in detail. From the traditional fire-starting methods using friction such as the Hand Drill or Cross Bow method to today's modern method using matches, lighters, Ferrocerium Rods, and other tools.
You would want to click How To Start A Fire to learn more about this, including how to build fire pits outdoor.
Here, in this blog, we review some key features to consider when choosing your own fire starters so that you can light up every adventure with ease. We have also curated eight of the Best Fire Starter that you can safely choose from, knowing that you will get the best from among all those available.
How do we choose the Best Fire Starters
When choosing the best fire starter, we considered a variety of factors to ensure that our recommendations would meet the needs of most outdoor enthusiasts or survivalists, and the situation they might encounter.
We looked at the overall design, their practicality, the intensity of the spark, and the size of it. Fire starters are simply straightforward devices with just one purpose, the ability to create a spark to light a flame. That's it!
But it has to work, especially in the wilderness.
We read hundreds of descriptions, specifications, and reviews on Amazon. We paid attention to the user reviews and feedback. Those that offered the best combination of features and performance at a reasonable price are selected, curated, and graded for our discussion here.
Disclosure: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission from our partners at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!
Traditional Fire Starters
For those of us who enjoy traditional methods of starting fires, this means mastering the use of common items as fire starters. With some experience and knowledge, anyone can turn these simple tools into powerful tools for creating lasting warmth and memories without relying on modern amenities, just natural materials!
Learning to use these tools will give you enduring knowledge on how to start a fire, especially in emergencies where you do not have access to a modern fire starter. These traditional methods can be tweaked by utilizing natural resources at your disposal.
Most of those who purchased these traditional fire starters used them for survival training and teaching. Below is a good choice for a Bow Drill fire starter.
Bow Drill Kit Fire Starter
This Bow Drill Kit Fire Starter is designed to be foolproof for anyone. Our unique bow drill kit has a pre-assembled handle and spindle, making it super easy and convenient for beginners.
The structure of the bow drill is stable and secure, allowing for safe use even by elders or children. This set also comes with an instruction book that has clear pictures providing detailed information on how to create fire.
All the components are made from top-notch natural materials, guaranteeing a smooth surface that will not hurt your hands and making it comfortable and safe to use.
Moreover, the steel bearing minimizes that reduces friction between the socket and spindle, ensuring great results in a fraction of the time and you can create your flame with minimal effort.
This product is perfect to show off at prehistory or science class and makes a great educational tool! This kit does more than just teach about fire-starting; it also helps you become comfortable with campfire safety and survival skills. On top of that, its durable design will last for years of use!
The Bow Drill Kit Fire Starter package comes with a bow, a spindle & top, a baseboard, and a bag of tinder. Get yours today and start mastering these skills!
Bushcraft The Bow Drill Bible-Paperback
AND .. did you know that there is a good book on this very ancient method of starting a fire?
Bushcraft - The Bow Drill Bible provides invaluable advice and guidance to help get you started. This book is an invaluable resource that will help you master the ancient art of making fire from scratch with confidence.
The Bow Drill Kit Fire Starter is your ultimate guide to creating fire with primitive methods, a true natural fire starter. Being able to make fire using Bow Drill is a fundamental skill of primitive technology and is used as a survival skill in Bushcraft.
This pocket field guide measures 5.5" x 8.5" and fits perfectly in any pack or jacket pocket, making it easier for you to take it anywhere you go! Color photos help guide you through every step of the bow drill process, from material selection to blowing your ember into flame.
You'll find a wealth of history, humor, and practical advice that is invaluable for anyone interested in making fires by friction. With clear photographs, diagrams, and charts on such things as wood selection for bow drill material, types of firewood to burn, and how to make a tinder bundle and fire lay, you'll have all the knowledge necessary to start and maintain your fire.
Get ready to take your first step towards becoming an expert outdoorsman with Bow Drill Kit Fire Starter and enjoy the satisfaction that comes with knowing you have what it takes to start a fire from scratch!
Modern Fire Starters
Ferrocerium Fire Steel Drilled Flint Fire Starter
Ferrocerium Drilled Flint Fire Starter
With Paracord Landyard Handle and Striker
The Ferrocerium Drilled Flint Fire Starter is a must-have for anyone that loves spending time outdoors. The 6 Striking Edges from the Striker-Pro striker are made from Tool Grade HSS Steel, which provides maximum hardness and generates a shower of hot sparks no matter which hand you use to scrape.
The Ferrocerium Rod measuring 4"(10cm) in length and 3/8"(10mm) in diameter is large enough for reliable sparks and small enough to carry on your person or store safely in an emergency kit.
Forged from highly effective ferrocerium this rod is waterproof and can be relied upon to work in any weather condition, producing sparks at 5,500 F (3,000 C). You are sure to get successful ignition results every single time.
Perfect to ignite a fire while out Bush-crafting, Hiking, Hunting, Fishing, EDC'ing or simply cooking dinner over a BBQ with friends in your backyard or wilderness.
Be assured that the Ferrocerium Drilled Flint Fire Starter will get you started quickly even in wet conditions or at high altitudes - great as a survival tool. So don't go into the wild unprepared.
The package comes with a 4" Ferro Rod of 3/8" diameter with a paracord lanyard handle and a High-Speed Steel striker.
Ferro Rod Fire Starter with Tinder Wick Rope
Ferro Rod Fire Starter with Tinder Wick Rope
36" Waterproof Tinder Wick Rope and Steel Fire Strike
The Ferro Rod Fire Starter with Tinder Wick Rope--the ultimate fire-lighter for all your outdoor adventures and survival outing. This kit contains everything you need to get a fire blazing, no matter how windy or wet the conditions.
With a patented Survival Torch that produces a shower of sparks that are directed right onto the wick, you can make sure your fire ignites fast and is easy to light even in harsh weather.
The premium quality ferrocerium and unique curved striker allow you to ditch hard-to-hold and difficult-to-use ferro rods and easily light your fire.
No more struggling in the cold with multiple tools - just one simple product with everything you need - Ferro Rod, Striker, Tinder Wick, and Bellow.! With this expertly-designed Fire Starter, making a safe and controlled blaze has never been easier!
It's highly effective even if it’s been soaking in water, giving you peace of mind to focus on your environment while out in the wilderness. It provides 3+ hours of continuous burn time or thousand of single-strike uses.
This all-in-one survival fire starter tool is perfect for bushcraft, survival, hiking, and camping, making sure that you are prepared for any emergency when you're in the wilderness.
The package comes with Ferro Rods (2 sizes available - 4" or 6"), 36" Waterproof Wick Rope, Aluminum Housing, Steel Striker & a Storage Bag.
Magnesium Waterproof Firestarter
Magnesium Waterproof Firestarter
Emergency Survival Kits Waterproof Firestarter
The Magnesium Waterproof Firestarter is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast! It is an essential tool for anyone looking to light a fire in any weather condition.
The waterproof and durable design is ideal for camping trips, survival scenarios, bushcraft, or other outdoor activities. The Magnesium rod produces large amounts of sparks with little effort and works even in wet or high-altitude environments.
This fire starter is made with a durable magnesium rod that can be easily scraped off with a striker. It is then ignited by sparks from the flint, making it safe and easy to use.
It has an added safety feature that prevents it from sparking until you are ready - the Magnesium body will not burn without friction from the scraping flint rod first producing sparks.
The included handy ruler can also act as both a bottle opener and ruler! This small fire starter (3" x 1.2" x 3/8") comes with an attached ball chain so you store it conveniently away in your bag without having to worry about it getting lost.
With its simple design and small size, it is an easy-to-use lightweight solution that is reliable, helping you stay prepared for your next adventure.
The package comes with a magnesium rod and a multi-purpose striker attached to the rod by a ball chain. It is sold in a set of 3 packs.
Permanent Match Fire Starter
Permanent Match Fire Starter - the classic and unique wilderness lighter perfect for campfires, grilling, stoves, gas grills, and barbecues.
This matchless, re-lightable fire starter is a great replacement for your matchbox and you can take it anywhere to camp, BBQ, or keep it with you in your survival kits and emergency home preparedness sets.
It measures 2.5 x 0.75 x 0.63 inches and weighs only 1.3 oz making it small enough to fit in your pocket and carry with you all day long (EDC). It’s lightweight yet waterproof, and weatherproof.
It is made of solid stainless steel metal with a vintage faux leather wrap. It also features a Perma long endless striker life which will last you up to 15,000 strikes.
With its Magnesium steal alloy flint rod, it makes it easily refillable and reusable. It's easy to use! All you have to do is fill the container with lighter fluid, dip the match inside, and scrape it against the side of the container to create a flame!
Perfect for outdoor adventurers, mountain hikers, military personnel, campers, and even for barbeque in your backyard. It is a survival gear that is dependable, efficient, and durable.
Get ready for your next adventure with the Permanent Match Fire Starter.
The package comes with 2 units of the Permanent Match reusable survival fire starter lighter with a key ring each. Liquid fuel is sold separately
Solar Fire Spark Starter
Solar Fire Spark Starter is a quick and convenient fire starter. This mini, portable device creates fire with outdoor solar sunshine in seconds. It features a parabolic mirror designed to focus the sun's radiant energy on a precise focal point, creating amazing high temperatures in seconds.
With its unique and simple design, the Solar Fire Spark Starter is waterproof and windproof, making it ideal for camping, mountain hiking, survival, or tinder bag scenarios. It is easy to use - just place the flint or tinder at the bottom of the coil cylinder and align the fire starter to the sun and watch the fire starts. It can be used to light your cigarette too.
Made of durable plastic and aluminum material, you can rely on its reliability. The diameter is approx. 3.8 inches and weighs about 40g.
And it is environment friendly, with no fuel or chemical required. A simple yet functional design.
The package comes with 1 x Solar Fire Spark Starter
USB Rechargeable Lighter
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you won’t want to miss out on this USB Rechargeable Lighter, a flameless electric dual arc plasma lighter. Featuring an IP56 waterproof rating with a metal-ring sealed plasma lighter cover and a locking clasp that keeps water from seeping inside. Waterproof and windproof, it is the perfect tool for camping trips, survival gear, and other outdoor activities.
This cool lighter offers total convenience - simply connect it via USB to your laptop, power bank, car, or other device and the rechargeable battery will be fully charged in just two hours! No gas or fuel refills to meddle with.
Its unique paracord lanyard is equipped with an emergency whistle, making it easy to carry and useful in unexpected survival scenarios. Lightweight and small (Size 2.7"L x 1.87"W x 0.63"T), you can hang it on your neck or keep it safe in your pocket so it’s always within reach!
This high-quality lighter is built with durable ABS material and a zinc alloy construction, ensuring maximum performance while remaining lightweight and compact. With its reliability and convenience, the USB Rechargeable Lighter is an absolute must-have.
It is perfect for any unexpected survival situation. Flame on without the hassle of having to refuel or replace lighters.
Get ready to ignite the outdoors with this versatile lighter!
The package comes with a USB Rechargeable Lighter, a paracord lanyard with a whistle, and 1 lithium-ion battery.
15 Pieces Emergency Fire-Making Kit
15 Pieces Emergency Fire-Making Kit
15-Piece Waterproof Fire Starter Survival Tool Kit
When you’re outdoors and need to make a fire, having the right tools can make all the difference.
The 15 Pieces Emergency Fire-Making Kit from TACAMO is the ultimate fire starter survival tool when you’re out camping, hiking, hunting, or in an emergency. This kit includes everything you need to help you build a fire – from firestarter tools, tinder, and 5 feet of Survivor Cord.
All the essentials come in a stainless-steel kit that’s stored in a waterproof canvas pouch, so you can easily integrate it into your pack. Plus, the kit comes with a 5X folding magnifying glass and 10X Fresnel wallet lens so you can start a fire on sunny days, as well as Ferro-rod and carbon striker for rainier days.
And there is more - the fire starter kit also includes 4+ fatwood blocks, 2 waxed jute rope sticks, a bag of fast-igniting waxed wood chips that ignite fast, a folded char cloth, and a char cloth tin so that you can make more for future use.
You also get an additional stainless-steel kit for cooking - so no matter what you’re up against during your outdoor adventure, this emergency fire-making kit has got you covered. And a durable multipurpose canvas bag to store all of the items.
Highly reliable and equipped with everything you need, this is the only fire starter kit you'll ever need when exploring the outdoors! With all these choices combined in one kit, you'll feel confident and prepared as you explore the great outdoors. This reliable emergency fire-making kit is essential for any adventurer looking to stay safe and survive (your survival kit) in any situation.
To recap, the TACAMO Emergency Fire-Making Kit consists of the following items:
- 0.5" x 5.5" Ferro Rod
- Carbon Steel Striker + 5 ft Survival cord
- 5X Folding Magnifying Glass with 10X Fresnel Wallet Lens
- 2 Waxed Jute Rope
- 4+ Fatwood Blocks
- Fatwood Chips
- Folded Char Cloth
- Char Cloth Tin
- Stainless Steel Mess Kit (for cooking)
- Premium Canvas Storage Bag
This is the ultimate emergency fire kit (also a survival kit) that is easy to pack and carry. With multiple fire-starting methods at your disposal, this kit is suitable for a wide range of situations and environments, including inclement weather, making it a must-have addition to your outdoor equipment or emergency preparedness supplies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Fire Starter
What is the easiest fire starter to use?
When it comes to starting a fire, nothing beats a trusty lighter. While they may be a relatively modern invention compared to other fire-starting tools, they are incredibly easy to use with one hand and offer impressive reliability - assuming they have enough fuel, such as ignition fluid or electricity, to keep them going.
Some said to "start fires or light fires" A lighter is the laziest way!! Talking about "catch fire" !
What is the most eco-friendly fire starter?
Opting for natural, non-toxic all natural fire starters is not only environmentally friendly but also a responsible choice. Utilizing resources such as wood shavings, recycled paper, and other textile leftovers serve as excellent natural options for starting a fire. Consider using wet wood over a raging fire.
Is magnesium better than a ferro rod for a fire starter?
Ferrocerium over magnesium. Not only does it produce more sparks, making it easier to catch fire, but it also works in all weather conditions. Magnesium, on the other hand, can fail to light if it gets wet.
Is there an expiry date for fire starters?
As in most items, there is expiry date or shelf life for fire starters. The shelf life for most fire starters is extended, provided that they are stored properly and kept dry. Check to see if your fire starter has expired before venturing outdoors.
Our Final Thoughts - Best Fire Starter
Having the right fire starter can make all the difference for any outdoor enthusiast or survivalist. With this in mind, we hope that this blog post gave you all of the information you need when it comes to choosing yours as well as some great options to look into, and brought you one step closer to choosing the ideal fire starter for your adventures.
Don't forget that having reliable gear like the best fire starter is essential in any camping situation or a survival scenario. It is always smart to be prepared; so make sure your pack has everything you need before heading out on your next adventure!
Get ready to enjoy the fun of sitting beside a campfire and cooking your meal confidently and safely or spending time out in the wilderness. At the end of the day, having the best fire starters for your needs can revolutionize every outdoor adventures and make them truly enjoyable, safe and worthwhile!
Thanks for reading! Imagine sitting by your fire pits, the roaring fire burning, with your loved ones and friends. Now enjoy it!
Enjoy The Great Outdoors!
Just my suggestion ....
If you are still thinking about which one is the best fire starter for you among the eight best fire starters, I would like to share the one I like most - The Ferro Rod Fire Starter with Tinder Wick Rope. All you have to do is strike the rod with the sparks directed right onto the wick. And the fire ignites fast. No more struggling with multiple tools. Sparks from Ferro rod are bright & plentiful, even in wet weather. I do believe that it is the best fire starter of the lot.
Just click on the green button below to check the prices on Amazon.
Ferro Rod Fire Starter with Tinder Wick Rope
36" Waterproof Tinder Wick Rope and Steel Fire Strike
Click here to go back to read about the 8 reviewed fire starters, and of course, the paperback on Bushcraft - Bow Drill Bible.
Living the Great Outdoors with Trusted Outdoor Gear!
For great outdoor gear, check our takes on the Water Filter Straw, Ooni Koda 12 Pizza Oven, Best Gallon Water Bottle, and Best SUV Tent for Camping 2023.
You want to read these blogs ..
Read more on Types of Camping and How to Start a Fire (including how to start a fire pit).
Interesting Nuggets
Keep your wit around the fire pit. Learn more about Campfire Safety Tips by Recreation.gov
Do you know what happens to wildlife during a wildfire? For a comprehensive understanding of the effect of a wildfire on wildlife, click here.