Gerber 31-000699 Bear Grylls Survival Series Fire Starter

Having been something of a Gerber fan for life with their multitools (I've had the same model on my hip daily for the past 8 years), seeing that they partnered with Bear to create a line of survival tools automatically sealed the deal on this firestarter.

The beautiful thing about this device is that it's compact, sturdy, watertight and most of all keeps your hands safe and comfortable when trying to get a fire going. Everything else--from the printed SOS/Air rescue instructions printed on the outside to the tight little space for tinder in the cap and the added whistle is just icing on the cake.

There's little else to be said other than what others have already pointed out, but I would like to add just a few more.

* I managed to cram another four cotton balls into the cap, providing me with tinder for quite some time.

* The complaints in other reviews about the lack of a longer cord to wear the device around the neck should be... Read more

The Bear Grylls firestarter comes in a hard plastic case, with a rubber o-ring at the break to make the inside of the tool watertight. Contained inside is the ferrocerium rod with a metal striker. On the cap is a small container for tinder (small cotton ball already included). For easy carry, the tool is threaded with a small lanyard, with a safety whistle at the tied end. Finally, the firestarter includes Bear's pocket survival guide.

My impression of the tool is that it could be made with a sturdier material, and like other review said, the lanyard is way to small (to be worn around the neck, for example). It'a a little difficult to open the cap to get at the tinder, but I guess that's good so it doesn't get wet or falls out. The rod and striker makes nice, hot sparks. I haven't had much time to practice with it, but I'll get better at making fire. The whistle is loud, just as you would want it. To conclude, the exterior on the tube is marked with the SOS signal in... Read more

Damn.I have to admit that this is well thought out.Fire starter,whistle,compartment for tinder and it even comes with instructions on what to do in emergency situation.Although i admit that i havent looked in that little pamphlet.

Compared to the Swedish firesteel this is a better bargain for what your getting.I just wish the lanyard was a bit longer so it can be worn aroung your neck (but can be remedied with paracord).Other than that i liked it so much i ordered more as a spare and future gifts.Thanks for looking.