>>1499325When you actually start using a ferrorod you realize that they can be used up rather quickly, even after you've practiced enough to get a fire lit with 1 strike. The biggest problem with the rods is that you can't really use all of the rod very well. Once it starts getting thinner, the chance of it snapping in half becomes pretty high. Once it finally snaps, being able to hold it and strike properly with the pieces become rather difficult.
Using a holder that supports the entire ferro rod, like how the ferro rod on a magnesium firestarter is supported, will allow you to get far more use out of it. Most people don't use a support for the rod because most people never use up a rod; due to lack of use. In fact, other than something like in this image, which is a ferro rod coupled with a magnesium rod, I've yet to see anyone use a support for their ferro rod. Even if you use your finger to support it the pressure is radically uneven and it will eventually snap; regardless of the light pressure used. This can be compounded by an uneven pressure stroke; causing a spot on the rod to have more material be removed. The result is reduced rod longevity.
I recommend, to anyone who uses ferro rods, to whittle out a support for it, from a small limb, the next time they are out camping. A block shape with a U-groove is best, but even a round rod with a V-groove will be better than your finger.
