So, if you're wondering about the waterproof quality of the Gerber Bear Grylls Fire Starter [31-000699], it's pretty solid in that aspect. The standout here is its waterproof storage compartment. This is designed to keep your tinder dry, which is super helpful when mother nature throws some rainy weather your way.
Now, it's good to know that the compartment is quite compact, suitable for just a small amount of tinder—like a single cotton ball. So, you might want to think about how much tinder you'll need for your trip and plan accordingly.
Once you get the protective coating off the ferrocerium rod, you're all set to go. Many who've tried it say it throws a strong spark, which is great. Just keep in mind that getting the hang of using the striker effectively might take a little practice.
On the flip side, there are mixed feelings about the lanyard and whistle that come with it. Some folks find the lanyard a bit short for wearing comfortably around the neck. If that's a bother, you can swap it out for a longer one pretty easily.
The whistle could be louder, according to some, but it's still a useful feature for emergencies.
All things considered, it seems like a reliable fire starter if you're into camping or hiking. While there might be a little learning curve, especially with getting consistent sparks, investing some time in practicing can really help.
Pair it with good tinder like those petroleum jelly-soaked cotton balls, and you should be good to go! Happy adventuring!
