DIY fire steel

[milius2]

Hi guys, I want to make a fire steel, something simple, from a piece of iron wire, like 8mm one. Will this work as in producing sparks? Or should I look for some other steel around?

 

[Dave Budd]

sorry it is unlikely to work due to it's lack of carbon and obtainable hardness. Your best bet is old files You can even just snap the end off one and regrind it!

 

[g4ghb]

or you can use the back of an old (or new cone to that) hacksaw blade - nothing needs doing to it either

 

[g4ghb]

needs to be one that 'snaps' rather than the bendable bi-steel type mind

 

[Everything Mac]

the best ones I have made were from old files. spring steel works too.

 

[milius2]

I have tons of useless springs in garage. Not so sure about files though m'be i'll nick one of my dad's or granpa's
Loads of hacksaw blades...

thanks for the tips, off to look for flints! ohh. shame... snow is still falling... arrrrr