This product feature was published in conjunction with the Virtual Pack Project from Outdoor Retailer Winter Market 2008. Click here for more information about the ORWM 2008 Virtual Pack Project.
The 2.7 ounce SL3 Swedish Firesteel® from Light My Fire is a neat little device incorporating a serrated 3.1″ blade and a sparking device that stores in the handle. I have to admit, though, that the choice to use it in the virtual pack is a bit whimsical. There are knives and multi-tools that are better suited to winter camping. There are better firestarters and stove lighters. And, there are certainly better bear protection devices available.
Nevertheless, this is the last item to go into the Virtual Pack and it gets extra points for being a multi-use item. Bob can use it to start fires by shaving tinder with the knife and igniting with the striker. He can use it to light his stove. And, simply because we could not find any bear spray vendors at Outdoor Retailer, Bob gets to defend his food cache with its 3.1″ blade. (That thought should keep him alert when cooking his meals.)
MSRP: $37.95. Weight: 2.7 oz. Available Now.
(Bear protection usage is meant in jest. Backpacking Light does not recommend or endorse using a small knife for bear protection.)
