cheap source for magnesium for firelighting?

[roguekiller23231]

i've been looking at magnesium firelighters, they seem to be expensive, but then i learnt that most metal Pencil Sharpeners are actually made out of magnesium (did anyone else know this!!??)

so, could i buy a bunch of metal pencil sharpeners, use something to grind them when i need to make a fire (could even use the blade!) and then put a spark to it, it would be like one of the purpose built magnesium firelighters?

 

[Dave-the-rave]

No idea about pencil sharpeners mate but have a look at this...http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/190680739043?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649

The ferro rod is a bit naff, very thin so won't last long but the magnesium seems to work ok on mine. Combine it with a decent ferro rod and you might have what you want. The striker isn't bad either. I'm not saying it's top notch but it works and it's cheap.

 

[British Red]

Some pencil sharpeners are indeed magnesium - if you put a twig in and turn it you get really fine tinder too

 

[Toddy]

HWMBLT says that magnesium fizzes like mad in acid, so vinegar? to test ?

Mine's just fizzed nicely

cheers,
M