Hand-Forged Fire Steel in Germanic Style, Functional Fire Striker

Hand-Forged Fire Steel in Germanic Style, Functional Fire Striker

The Spark of History in Your Hands

For centuries, from the Iron Age through the Migration Period, the Viking Age, and the entire Middle Ages, flint and steel were an absolutely essential part of anyone's kit. It was, in essence, the "lighter" of its time. Every warrior, hunter, merchant, and homesteader carried this simple yet vital tool with them. The ability to make fire meant warmth, safety, and a hot meal. The secret to its function lies in the high carbon content of the steel. When struck against a hard, sharp piece of flint, tiny shavings of metal are scraped off, which heat up from the friction and fly off as sparks onto your prepared tinder.

How to Make Fire Like Our Ancestors

Making fire with a flint and steel requires a bit of practice, but the feeling of success is well worth it. Here is the basic procedure:

1. Prepare your materials: You will need this fire steel, a piece of sharp flint, and a highly flammable material – tinder (e.g., char cloth, amadou fungus, or plant down).
2. The correct grip: Hold the fire steel firmly in your hand, with your fingers passing through the oval opening for maximum control. Take the piece of flint in your other hand.
3. Striking sparks: Place a small piece of tinder on top of the flint, as close as possible to its sharp edge. Then, strike the flat edge of the fire steel downwards against the flint's edge in a swift, glancing motion.
4. Catching a spark: The sparks (incandescent particles of steel) will fly off and land on the tinder. Once a spark catches and creates a glowing ember, gently blow on it.
5. Creating a flame: Transfer the glowing tinder to a prepared "nest" of dry grass or birch bark and gently blow it into a flame.

Important: Don't expect to succeed on your first try. Getting the technique right takes patience and practice!

Technical Specifications

How to Care for Your Fire Steel

To ensure your fire steel serves you for as long as possible and is always ready for action, it needs proper care.

The Enemy is Rust

This fire steel is made from high-carbon steel, not stainless steel. This is necessary for it to function, but it also means it is susceptible to rust. After each use, especially in a damp environment, dry it thoroughly. For long-term storage, lightly coat it with a thin layer of oil (mineral, gun, or even vegetable oil) to prevent moisture from reaching the metal.