Way back in the day before the advent of butane lighters and even waterproof matches, the Davy Crocketts of the world used something called magnesium to spark up a flame. It’s still used in pyrotechnic and incendiary devices, perhaps the most simple of which is the backpacker-friendly Coghlan’s Flint Striker (MSRP: $7.50). This small fire-starting rod and striker uses magnesium to generate a stream of sparks capable of lighting any combustible material to start a fire at any altitude and in any weather condition. It even works when it’s wet. While the butane lighter may still be the popular choice for lightweight camping convenience, this old school fire-starting stick makes for a reliable backup good for thousands of sparks should you find yourself a few too many miles from the convenience store when the gas runs out.
Get it: find a list of retailers including REI and BassPro Shops at
