The Exotac FireROD V2 is a top-tier fire starter that stands out in a crowded market of ferro rods.
With its unique design features, high-quality spark, and refillable ferro rod, it’s a tool that’s built to last.
It’s not just a fire starter; it’s an investment in reliability and longevity.
It’s not the cheapest option, but it’s arguably the best.
My review delves into the features, performance, and overall value of the Exotac FireROD, offering insights to help you decide if it’s the right spark for your next expedition.
- Superior Design: Exotac’s fireROD is a testament to superior design and craftsmanship. It is CNC machined in-house from high-grade 6061 anodized aluminum sourced from the USA, ensuring rugged protection and outstanding durability.
- Waterproof Tinder Storage: The fireROD features a waterproof housing with secure internal threading and an O-ring, offering additional protection against moisture. This multifunctional tool allows you to store your preferred tinder securely.
- 5/16″ Ferro Rod: The fireROD comes with a 5/16″ diameter ferrocerium rod that can be threaded into the handle. This feature enables continuous use for creating campfires, lighting stoves, and other survival essentials.
- Outdoor Survival Tool: The fireROD is designed with outdoor survival in mind. The refillable ferro rods can be used with any bushcraft knife to spark a fire while camping, hiking, or backpacking. Each rod offers up to 5,000 fire-starting strikes, ensuring you’re always prepared.
- Made in the U.S.A.: Exotac takes pride in its manufacturing process. All products, including the fireROD, are beautifully designed, masterfully machined, and hand-finished in the USA, reflecting our commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
The Exotac FireROD V2: It’s Worth The Money
The Exotac FireROD retails for around $30, a considerable amount for a fire starter.
However, all ferro rods are not created equal.
This proven fire-starting tool boasts unique design features that set it apart from its competitors.
Quality Spark
Some ferro rods emit a fine mist of sparks, while others hurl red-hot fiery globs of molten metal that burn long and hot.
The Exotac FireROD falls into the latter category.
The Ferro rod is softer than your average ferrocerium, throwing off a huge shower of white-hot sparks that burn at nearly 5,500°F.
This high temperature ensures it lights tinder effortlessly.
The 5/16 inch diameter ferro rod is 3 inches long and designed to provide up to 5,000 starting strikes.
Replaceable Ferro Rod
The Exotac FireROD is designed to last a lifetime.
After about 5,000 strikes, you can unscrew the spent ferro rod from the handle and replace it with a new one.
Replacement Ferro rods are available from Exotac for about $10, allowing you to extend the lifespan of your FireROD indefinitely.
Tinder Storage Capsule
One of the standout features of the Exotac FireROD is the tinder storage capsule.
The end of the handle unscrews to reveal a compartment where you can store your tinder of choice.
The FireROD also comes with two Exotac quickLIGHT cotton tinder knots stuffed into the handle, which lights beautifully with a spark from the ferro rod.
Waterproof and Durable
The Exotac FireROD is designed to withstand the elements.
The handle incorporates an O-ring that helps create a watertight seal, protecting your tinder from moisture.
The handle is made of rugged, CNC-machined, USA-high-grade 6061 anodized aluminum, which can endure all kinds of abuse.
Compact and Lightweight
Weighing just 1 oz, the Exotac FireROD is perfect for hikers and backpackers looking to minimize their pack weight.
Its compact size makes it easy to stow in a small space in your pack, a fire starter kit, or even in your pocket.
Customer Reviews
The Exotac FireROD has garnered widespread praise for its quality, functionality, and thoughtful design. Users appreciate its robust construction, practical features, and the reliability it offers as a fire-starting tool. Highlighted by its versatility and durability, the FireROD is celebrated for its integration into outdoor gear and its ability to provide a dependable fire source in various conditions.
Pros
- Quality and Construction: Reviewers consistently note the high-quality machining and superior construction of the FireROD, with specific praise for its well-cut threads and use of durable materials like aircraft aluminum.
- Functionality and Features: The replaceable ferrocerium rod, a watertight compartment for tinder, and compatibility with knife sheaths stand out as highly valued features. The ability to carry essential fire-starting material compactly and efficiently is frequently mentioned.
- Practical Design: Many appreciate the thoughtful design elements, such as a spare o-ring and textured grooves for improved grip, which enhance the tool’s usability and reliability in various conditions.
Cons
- Price: A common critique is the product’s price point, which some buyers feel is high relative to other firesteels available on the market.
- Size and Compatibility: Some have commented that the rod’s diameter is smaller than standard sizes, affecting compatibility with certain custom knife sheaths. Additionally, concerns about the durability of the lanyard retainer’s material have been voiced.
Overall Customer Satisfaction
The overall sentiment towards the Exotac FireROD is highly positive, with users expressing satisfaction with their purchase despite a few noted drawbacks. The product’s quality, durability, and practical features make it a valued tool for outdoor enthusiasts.
While the price and certain design aspects have drawn criticism, these are generally seen as minor compared to the benefits offered, making the FireROD a recommended choice for those seeking a reliable fire-starting solution.
Final Thoughts
The Exotac FireROD is a high-quality fire starter that’s built to last.
Considering its durable construction, replaceable rod, and the added convenience of a tinder storage compartment, the Exotac FireROD offers excellent value for its price. It’s an investment in safety and convenience for any outdoor enthusiast.
While there may be cheaper options, I believe that its durability, refillability, and superior performance make it a worthwhile investment.
If you’re looking for a fire starter that you can rely on for years, the Exotac FireROD is a fantastic choice.
And be sure to check out our other Exotac Fire Starter Reviews for more quality fire-starting gear.
- Quality Design: Exotac’s fireROD is a testament to quality design and craftsmanship. It is CNC machined in-house from high-grade 6061 anodized aluminum sourced from the USA, offering rugged protection and exceptional durability for your outdoor adventures.
- Waterproof Tinder Storage: The fireROD features a waterproof housing with secure internal threading and an O-ring, providing additional protection against moisture. This multifunctional tool allows you to store your preferred tinder securely, ensuring you’re always prepared.
- 5/16″ Ferro Rod: The fireROD comes with a 5/16″ diameter ferrocerium rod that can be threaded into the handle. This feature enables continuous use for creating campfires, lighting stoves, and other survival essentials, making it a reliable tool for any outdoor enthusiast.
- Outdoor Survival Tool: The fireROD is designed with outdoor survival in mind. The refillable ferro rods can be used with any bushcraft knife to spark a fire while camping, hiking, or backpacking. Each rod offers up to 5,000 fire-starting strikes, ensuring you’re always prepared.
- Made in the U.S.A: Exotac takes pride in its manufacturing process. All products, including the fireROD, are beautifully designed, masterfully machined, and hand-finished in the USA, reflecting our commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
FAQs
Is the Exotac FireROD worth the price?
While the Exotac FireROD is more expensive than many other fire starters, its unique features and high-quality performance make it a worthwhile investment.
Can the Exotac FireROD be refilled?
Yes, one of the Exotac FireROD’s standout features is its refillable ferro rod. Once the original rod is used up, you can unscrew it from the handle and replace it with a new one.
Is the Exotac FireROD waterproof?
es, the Exotac FireROD is designed to be waterproof. The aluminum handle uses an O-ring to create a watertight seal, protecting your tinder from moisture.
How many strikes can the Exotac FireROD make?
The Exotac FireROD is designed for up to 5,000 starting strikes. However, the ferro rod can be replaced, extending the lifespan of your FireROD indefinitely.
- Extremely Durable: Exotac’s fireROD boasts a quality design, CNC machined in-house from high-grade 6061 anodized aluminum sourced from the USA. This ensures rugged protection and durability, making it a reliable companion for your outdoor adventures.
- Waterproof Tinder Storage: The fireROD features a waterproof housing with secure internal threading and an O-ring, offering additional protection against moisture. This multifunctional tool allows you to store your preferred tinder securely, ensuring you’re always prepared.
- 5/16″ Ferro Rod: The fireROD comes with a 5/16″ diameter ferrocerium rod that can be threaded into the handle. This feature enables continuous use for creating campfires, lighting stoves, and other survival essentials, making it a reliable tool for any outdoor enthusiast.
- Outdoor Survival Tool: The fireROD is designed with outdoor survival in mind. The refillable ferro rods can be used with any bushcraft knife to spark a fire while camping, hiking, or backpacking. Each rod offers up to 5,000 fire-starting strikes, ensuring you’re always prepared.
- U.S.A. Made: Exotac takes pride in its manufacturing process. All products, including the fireROD, are beautifully designed, masterfully machined, and hand-finished in the USA, reflecting our commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
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