'Dummy proof': This fire starter survival tool works in the rain — and it's down to $20

What is it?

Have you ever watched someone start a fire with just a few strikes of flint and steel and thought, "Wow, I wish I could do that"? Now you can, thanks to the Prepared4X Fire Starter Survival Tool. This all-in-one gadget has everything you need to set things aflame, whether you find yourself in a life-or-death survival situation, in need of warmth on the family camping trip or just hankering to roast some marshmallows in your backyard. Have we sparked (heh) your interest? Good, because right now you can snatch one up for just $20, or nab the larger size for $23.

PREPARED4X

Fire Starter Survival Tool

$21$22

Save $1 with coupon

This has everything you need to get blazing, even if it's windy or pouring rain.

Save $1 with coupon

$21 at Amazon

Why is this a good deal?

Because this is a handy, potentially day-saving tool to have in your car, backpack or home. Sure, it's not on an eye-popping markdown, but it's on sale and, maybe more important, in stock. And hey, why not get one so you'll have it — think of it like an investment.

Why do I need this?

The Fire Starter Survival Tool is weather-resistant and designed to be used in even the most fire-unfriendly situations. As an avid camper, let me tell you: Few things are less pleasant than setting up camp in a downpour and having no way of drying off. The ability to start a fire, even with wet tinder, is invaluable.

How does it work? Easy. Fray the ends of the rope down, then take the flint and strike it against the "steel" (the ferro rod). It sends a shower of sparks straight towards the rope, which will then catch fire and burn steadily until your kindling catches fire. Unlike a traditional flint and steel that will only scatter a few sparks, the longer rod ensures you get enough sparks to start a fire on the first try, every time.

The kit includes a ferro rod and a striker, as well as 36 inches of rope that results in more than three hours of continuous burn time. Of course, you won't need all that just to get started — it should last you for thousands of single strikes. It's a cinch to use, so there's no need to worry that you don't have the "touch" — this is approved even for people who don't think Bear Grylls is the coolest.

What reviewers say

"Dummy-proof," said a fan. "I got this for our emergency bags because we tend to experience everything living in Ohio! Yup all four seasons; bad winters, nasty storms that leave us powerless and tornados. We also live on a fault so the kids and I have made go bags in case we ever need them. Matches are great but eventually you run out. I wanted something waterproof and long enough that I wouldn’t get burned and can start a fire easily. I took this thing outside today and just so happened we had 50mph gusts...and it worked amazingly."

"Great fire-starter tool kit for camping, hiking, for your emergency tool kit, car tool bag, outdoor cooking etc. It has a ferro rod flint, a steel scraper and a feedable tinder wick rope for fuel, in a metal 'case'. Plenty of feedable wick rope to start multiple fires," said one happy user. "Must have for emergency or camping kits."

Another parent chimed in thusly: "We purchased this fire starter for our daughter as she’s leaving for an adventure soon. She has several, but my husband is always on the lookout for an easier method for her. This tool is it! Simply fray the end of the rope and strike the rod with the striker. It works every time."

The one complaint customers had was around how thin the rope had to be. "I dislike that the rope has to be undone to a fine, hair-like level," one shopper said.

PREPARED4X

Fire Starter Survival Tool

$23$40

Save $17 with coupon

This super-sized version may be more to your liking. And for just three bucks more, why not?

Save $17 with coupon

$23 at Amazon

If you have Amazon Prime, you’ll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $25 or more.)

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

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