5 Ways To Use A Ferro Rod To Start A Fire - Am I Doing It Wrong?

[@davidafultz]

#4 is a new one on me! Good technique

[@jamesparker6383]

As long as you're able to get that fire started then you must be doing something right.

[@vegasvato55]

AMEN BROTHER

[@AGamersWorld1993]

I always do your 5th method. It works best for me, and it usually lights the tender after 1 or 2 strikes.

[@scanyoursector5731]

The correct way, is the way that works!

[@csh6220]

5 techniques, 5 fires. They all work and you just proved it. As far as the "anti-batoning" crowd, I have seen Cody Lundin, Dave Canterbury, Les Stroud, and many KZbinrs baton with knives. The three I named are considered by many to be experts. I baton and see no reason to do otherwise. If it is your knife Brian, you can do whatever you want to with it.

[@henrysinclair4964]

The best way is the one you're comfortable with efficiently making fire. It varies from person to person. Thanks for the video, I learned one technique I am not familiar with.

[@markkoehler5110]

I have seen a lot of videos over the years on how to use a ferrocerium rod but your video on the subject is now my new favourite! Thank you!

[@M21Karl]

Like other's have said, whatever method works best for you is the correct method for you.

[@pianop1961]

I really appreciate your channel, Bryan. You do a great job and don't let anyone change you. You're just a rambling man and we love it!

[@Johonavich49]

I dont mind bryans rambling!

[@spectermad9180]

I do it like you do it...and you and I should not care what others say...they probably never Use a Ferro Rod..they just seen a Video and think they Know how to use it Correctly...but Do what you like to do

[@ricev7071]

You're not an idiot for "beating on your knife." I'm pretty rough with my knives too, I don't make love to the damn thing!

[@derekneumann]

As in many facets of life: "the way you improve your skills is to practice the things you're not good at." That statement is so simple and so sage at the same time. Props.

[@michaelsargeant5923]

As always very enjoyable. Merry Christmas and a happy new. From your friends across the pond 🇬🇧

[@lesliemiller5790]

IMHO they ALL are correct, because, as you said, sometimes sometime works a little better than another under different circumstances. I have used my rod with a fast back and forth scraping of the knife to ignite tinder that I found hard to light or that would catch and quickly go out because the tinder was a little damp, or it was humid. My thoughts on this are that the sparks that didn't catch heated up the tinder before it went out, thus making the next spark catch better in succession, until the tinder was dry enough to sustain the flame. Keep making the good videos, and don't worry what someone else thinks or says, because haters are a dime a dozen.

[@randybradley7427]

As long as you get the fire going its all good. There not just one way to get the barn painted.

[@Johonavich49]

#3 and #5 look like the best methods for me! Thanks brian!

[@unknownunknown9274]

The way we learn is by trial and error, whatever works best for you is fine! Brian I really like your videos, keep on keeping on BRAH!!!

[@shihanjulio]

The best method is the one that works for you every time !!! So sick of these "experts" that try to turn something simple into a technical, complicated and over analyzed ordeal !!!!! Great video :) :) :)

[@kirneyc.thibodeaux649]

Im in the woods once a week for the last 32 years practicing with my equipment. I thinl you should do what works for you. I recently made 61 days out of my 19.8 pound bugout bag. Going to try for 100 days soon. Cant wait. I still do military hikes. Love my life. Great video. Merry Christmas to you. Enjoyed. Charles

[@SurvivalOnPurpose]

Merry Christmas to you and yours too.

[@tennesseesmoky9012]

Congratulations on the success of your channel. I’ve always enjoyed the information that you have shared here. Very informative and honest reviews. I appreciate your willingness to share your knowledge and experience here. Merry Christmas to you! - Tennessee Smoky

[@oopalonga]

Sir I've watched three or four of these feral rod videos and yours was by far the best! I have attempted to start a fire with raw materials three times and I haven't been able to get it but I think what these techniques should help so thank you so much❤❤

[@SurvivalOnPurpose]

You can do it!

[@oopalonga]

@@SurvivalOnPurpose finally got it w/ grass--also think i need a longer ferro rod

[@BODE318]

I have been watching you for a long time, and if you have something to say about a product I'm interested in (which is a lot ). I totally love your reviews and trust your reviews. You are someone I trust for absolute true information. I just want you to know you are loved and appreciate all you do. MERRY CHRISTMAS my friend.

[@SurvivalOnPurpose]

Merry Christmas to you and yours too.

[@starlingblack814]

Merry Christmas Bryan. Thanks for all the videos.

[@SusanLand]

Since I usually use a magnesium bar ferro rod ($2 at Harbor Freight), I find it's easiest to use the 5th method owing to the small pieces. I've tried pulling back on the bar, but it's just awkward. It's much better to brace it on the ground next to the tinder and scrape down. If you've got a big rod that's easy to hold on to, then it's just a matter of how you're feeling that day. Unless you've got Chuck Norris with you that day. Then he can just stare at the rod and it will shoot sparks to the moon. Btw, stay away from my cat.:).

[@donaldstrader7241]

I see Bryan tested these in: Firestarter Shootout- $12 Doan USA Magnesium Bar vs $3 Harbor Freight Chinese Version kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z16ZnKugm5eZnMU I have not re-watched it, know I "liked" it at some point. In any event it was another comparison, the Doan versus one of those generic versions you find on a hang card at places like Target...Coghlan's, I think, that I wanted to mention to you. In that video the ferro rod stayed mounted on the Doan, it did not remain attached to the Coghlan's version. So please watch out for potential ferro rod loss, especially if that is the only one your carry. The Harbor Freight one might not have that issue. It looked worn, but still attached at the end of Bryan's video.

[@lesliemiller5790]

Or he can cause enough friction from snapping his fingers to heat the tinder to combustible temperature

[@ChrisvilleUSA]

Bryan, I have never done the pull technique and I get my fire started just fine

[@disabledcamperhardnocks8068]

Great video. I learn something from your channel every time. Happy holidays!!

[@ReefMimic]

I use a “Speedy Sharp Carbide Knife Sharpener” for scraping the rod. Works better than the scrappers that usually come with the rods.

[@dicktimpano8807]

I agree with you. I've used them also.

[@donaldstrader7241]

I have one like it, mine says EzeEdge on it. Not sure if I have used or not. I do agree that tungsten carbide scrapers are among the best way to scrape sparks off a ferrocerium rod. One that I have used a lot, probably the most, is a Bahco or Sandvik tungsten carbide scraper replacement blade. The scrapers I use have one of those labels depending on which one I look at. The replacement blades say Bahco on the packaging. I "repurposed" one of those for ferro rod scraping. I taped a loop of cordage on one end to provide a bit of a handle, and in an emergency the tape could also act as tinder/tinder supplement.

[@quovadis5036]

Excellent instructions. I agree with the last method, but other options are interesting

[@michaelmaier7262]

Cool video. I probably would use any but the first one. I haven't seen that last one before. Thanks!

[@rusilver2]

I give you a thumbs up for the rambling comment - good for you man! Keep up the good work

[@johngreen4278]

I love your channel. Don't stop just because of idiots. I bought my last 3 knives because of the info you showed about them and you were right on all counts.(Zoomstro, Schrade and BPS. If "yont ta make them I'm gont ta watch.

[@royphelps8084]

If you get your tender lit , you done it rite ! If you have 1/8 inch rod or 1/2 inch , my arthritic hands like the longer and bigger faro rods .

[@bushcraftsyllabus]

Thank you for sharing these tips. You did an excellent job on this video.

[@SurvivalOnPurpose]

Thanks for watching!

[@miguelpimentel8539]

Great tutorial

[@bravethewildreviews]

Another great video! Gotta try those different techniques out

[@SurvivalOnPurpose]

Go for it!

[@paulmeade3180]

Merry Christmas buddy

[@gerardmartyn1738]

Merry Christmas to you and your family.

[@SurvivalOnPurpose]

Merry Christmas to you and yours too.

[@Deathbyswordpoint]

Merry Christmas Sir 😁

[@glenray7464]

I use #4 and #5 is called pump I use it for hard to light or damp tinder that needs a lot of heat in one spot. #4 on dry fine tinder that only take one strike.

[@jamesswick7534]

Glad to see the Chuck Norris facts again

[@thorin693]

The best method is what works best for you.

[@Gator-357]

The way you use a ferro rod depends on it's composition. Harder rods with less magnesium require shorter strokes and softer ones with more magnesium require longer stokes with consistent and firm pressure. The correct way to use one is whatever way works for you and produces the desired results. There is no right or wrong way per sè

[@j.p.4541]

Great Ferro rod review, how do you like the BPS Adventurer knife? I’m interested in the scandi grind.

[@RS4393]

I bought my BPS ADVENTURER when I needed a budget friendly replacement for my Ka-Bar. Been carrying it exclusively for yrs. Love that blade. By the way, there's nothing wrong with the way you use your ferro rod.

[@oldpup2182]

Any way you get the job done is correct. Throwing sparks in the direction you want is the goal, the process doesn't really matter as long as it WORKS. :)

[@oathtaker2768]

If you can start a fire with a Ferro Rod you are doing it right.

[@raylenehalda9562]

Are all flint rods made out of the same material? Not talking about the handle, just the Flint stone material. Are some of them softer than others and wear out faster, light easier? I want to buy a knife that would be adequate for survival as well. Could you recommend a moderately priced knife? I want to prepare for what might be happening in the near future. Thank you! 😊

[@SurvivalOnPurpose]

1) ferrocerium rods are not all the same. Some are harder and some are softer due to the different ratios of materials in them (and maybe the manufacturing process). they all contain iron (ferro) , cerium (hence the ferrocerium rod name) and lanthanum, along with small amounts of neodymium, praseodymium, and magnesium. The exact recipe makes a difference as to how well they work. I tend to prefer softer ones because they throw huge gobs of 3000 degree goodness. It also helps if you have a really sharp striker. 2) There are lots of great knives out there. The Condor Terrasaur is one of my favorite knifes for under $50 amzn.to/49KmDk3

[@adammickelson7398]

So, would you call the first one, The spray and pray technique?

[@fonzybustillos5076]

Hey brother . I haven't seen you in a while . I almost didn't recognize you with the beard.lol I have a 19 month beard myself lol Anyway, lo e your videos. I laughed at the 3 things people gripe about , 1- you do tend to talk alot.lol I really do to ha ha . 2- I as well baton limbs with my pks mountain lion to make kindling . That is a very normal thing, sure I have an axe but I'm not felling a tree it ain't getting carried. I do have several hatchets but it's really just extra weight . I've processed 95 fires to cook on this year just with the mountain lion. Definitely more fires than that but I'm only talking about how many I processed and started with that one knife. I enjoyed the video and it was funny your most used ferro rod. The green lighter. Lol As far as how you start your fire. I 99% of the time hold my knife and put my knuckles on the tip of my boot . The other day I did a video and I had to cheat because I had an ingrown toe nail and I had to put the ferro rod in my fuzzies ,, I got it but I felt bad because I teach highly against it . At the end of the day If you made the fire it's a success regardless . The first technique , I way highly teach against because yes you do generally knock your fuzzies or tinder bundle put of the way . Great video brother and glad to see you again. Fonzy ( Adapt-To-Survive ) From the lone star state

[@rolandvillarreal2687]

I've strarted over 350,000 fires over the last 25 years. Number 5 is the way we start all our fires at Survivor Firestarters.

[@grassman3455]

I am late to the Party It is your channel. Screw The ones that are watching. And critical About every little thing.

[@charlesjonestherednecknerd]

Brian, I have used all of the first three, also please don't skin my cats the wife (Suzer) would NOT appreciate it! #4 is a new technique for me but looks like it would work great if you can get down to the surface. I have used 5 as well. Kinda depends on how my back feels and where I am trying to start the fire at what I do with the ferro rod. Thanks for the actual showing of the variations. I do believe Chuck Noris just wills fire into existence.....

[@russellbreyley6387]

By using your knife does it damage it in any way?

[@stefanocappella9612]

Doesn't matter how you use it aslong as you get a fire 🇨🇦 🔥

[@jamesnelson1443]

Yes you ramble! I wish you would spend more time describing the spines instead of just flashing the knife chaotically

[@SurvivalOnPurpose]

The spines?

[@kennethwilson8633]

Yep you are doing it wrong you aren’t supposed to tell the trolls you read the bad stuff. Have fun stay safe.

[@donaldstrader7241]

Thanks for the Interesting video Bryan. I pick whatever method the tinder, conditions, and type of ferrocerium rod, seem to justify. I did have to go back an locate a video of Ray Mears lighting a fire with a ferrocerium rod, which in this particular video he called it a fire flash but did specify it as an alloy. He calls the one he is using a Fire Stick on his website and did explain it is a ferrocerium rod. Now I'm rambling. LOL. Can't even blame Bryan, it comes naturally. In this video Ray discusses clearing a safe area, making the fire, etc., and preparation for using birch bark starts at about 3:40 in the video; actual scraping starting after the 4 minute mark. Video name and link (if it works in a post): Ray Mears - How to Light a Fire, Bushcraft Survival kzbin.info/www/bejne/fqjQc4Cledqbg7c The scene I remember best was when he was lighting a fire on a canoe trip, don't know if that is on KZbin. There he was showing how he secured his important ferro rod. As I recall he used one of those Swiss keychains that separate in the middle if you push it together, for use, then he carefully reattached it. I think he then went on to cook some bannock. Bryan showed the method Ray used. I watched Survivor for the outdoor aspects, but gave up as the strife was more prevalent than the survival apsects. While I was still watching I remember a woman more or less correctly using a ferro rod (one of the Doan type with the ferro rod mounted on the side of a magnesium block) in an attempt to light a fire. A guy, thought he could do better, and took it from her and proceeded to bang it. Her technique was MUCH better. Don't recall if any mansplaining was involved. 😆

[@magicworldbyjorg]

[@jimwright3465]

Good video, I wouldn't be too concerned about comments from individuals who had to dust the Cheetos crumbs off their fingers before they could type. Merry Christmas and happy New Year to you and your family.

[@richarddevore8847]

Brian, set up your camp, gather your wood, and start your fire the way you want too.! Nay sayers need to increase their woodsmanship skills and play in the dirt more ! Make fire!!! Chuck Norris will start it for you if it does not work !!! I have started fires many different ways and the ferrocerium rod is the best for me when marginal tinder is used mixed with fatwood. Two sticks work as well if one of them is a match !!!

[@CamoKing2012]

Yeah people are just haters. If it accomplishes the goal of starting a fire or getting flame is it really wrong no matter what method is used? Personally i tell and train people multiple ways and have them choose which they like and works best for them. Some people ive trained who are older or have weaker hands and wrists different techniques work better but it is all about what works for you. Personally, while ive used all of them and taught all of them, i use the same as you do with putting the tip of the rod firmly into tinder bundle and striking into it. For me this gives me the most controll and best sparks thst last longest and have best chance of success. This method does not work for all though so stop being snobs and hating on one method over another, it just makes you look and and ignorant.

[@alphaomegasurvivalsupply6548]

For me all the variables play a role in how ill do it, but in the end if you start the fire how could it be wrong lol. Sure maybe not the most effective but did it work? Alot of people these days like to take offense from a video or comment as if its directed specifically at them, and in most cases it clearly isn't lol. Who knows 🤷

[@gizmocarr3093]

If it lights up it, it is not important how you do It.🙂👍

[@shaneskinner5385]

Me personally I wouldn’t listen to those idiots. If you can start a fire with a Farro rod you are doing it right.

[@ctsnider88]

I didn't know that there was a wrong way.

[@paulhayes9765]

Great video Bryan. It's a win win when you make fire. Nice choice using your BPS Adventurer. Merry Christmas to you and your family. Cheers 👍

[@jeffjackson5331]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@stevefisher2121]

You’re only doing it wrong if it doesn’t work!!!!

[@galatians328]

"I love me some fat wood!" :)

[@EssexCountyPhoto]

Great video thanks. I'm still struggling with a tiny Kupilka rod, not sure what I'm doing wrong but that thing is absolutely minuscule. I've got big hands and it's like holding a couple of tooth picks. To be fair I'm also struggling trying to operate a Petromax paraffin lantern safely. So far, mucho singed eyebrows, scared wife, terrified dog... and a beautiful brass flame-thrower. Maybe I'm just sh!t at starting fires. Merry Christmas! 🥳

[@choppertcp1045]

If it makes a fire and that’s your common goal with a ferro rod how are you doing it wrong if your end results in a warm fire. People like to think if you don’t do it MY way then it’s wrong.

[@charlesechols6354]

Knife testing doesn't denote knife use. Rambling is a southern thing and that's good. Did you get a fire started and didn't ruin your ferro rod, then it's not wrong.

[@artfisher1615]

But you didn’t aerodynamically balance test the ferro rod! Ha.

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

.... Just call him Sparky !! ..... Now go call the Fire Deparment. ... ... #5 is my go to with Petroleum Jelly saturated cotton balls .... or a shot of coleman fuel from the camp stove ....

[@MrMadhouse70]

I call it the pump metod. If the tinder is wet you pump like hell. if the tinder is fatwood we pump like normal:) People say if you use this metod your ferro rod will not last long. How care? If u must have a fire you must. A 6" ferro rod will last forever. Anyway, i dont think this metod come from me, You are a smart guy and learned yourself. Merry Christmass my friend. hmm do i spell like shit? red lines everywhere.

[@waynesmallwood6027]

Good job. Educational. Ignore the narrow-minded morons and drive on.

[@Steve_G88]

Ive never been bothered by any rambling.

[@ChrisvilleUSA]

Jesus man, get to the point.....lol

[@SurvivalOnPurpose]

The video starts at …

[@ChrisvilleUSA]

@@SurvivalOnPurpose good stuff

[@tikkidaddy]

The only time I prefer the spray and pray method of holding the rod in the air is if you have a small amount of liquid or gel fuel on a marginal tinder like alcohol, lighter fluid etc. I try not to burn myself on.purpose😂

[@NewSpirits]

The correct way to use a ferro rod is whichever way you can get it to make a fire.🔥🔥🔥 🪵🪵🪵