Fire pistons are toys. They are fun to play with, but when you NEED a fire RIGHT NOW, there are better options. Usually the better options are one time use, but that's okay. You only use them when you really need them. I have been carrying matches for a few years now, and have yet to use them. I go camping once a month with the boy scouts and generally use a ferro rod, or lighter. For something that doesn't use resources, I would pick a magnifying glass over a fire piston. It is much lighter and smaller.
The only real comparison to a fire piston is a magnifying glass, and flint and steel. I guess you can throw in friction fires with those as well. They all have their different benefits and drawbacks, but they are all just different ways to start a fire when you have time, warm hands, and dry tinder.
To the OP, for me, there are two brands a storm matches that are proven performers: The REI brand, and the UCO. I would have to compare the performance of the Cohlgans up against the heavy hitters before replacing them in my kit. 11B did a great job of showing the UCOs in action. I have seen a similar video with the REI ones. So far, it has been my own experience that every time I purchase a Cohlgan item that looks just like a high value item from a different company, it has been a let down.
Reply With Quote
Well...
Originally Posted by Rick
Bookmarks