ExoTac nanoSTRIKER XL Review 2013/06/19

There is a lot of choice on the market now for firesteels, which one do you go for? This review is of the ExoTac nanoSTRIKER XL. Let's check it out. 

Introduction

The overall package is really slick, the firesteel comes delivered in a little presentation box with the features and benefits of the striker, inside is a lanyard you can attach and a bag with replacement O rings and a split ring to enable key chain carry for the striker itself. The nanoSTRIKER XL features a durable aluminium housing, high quality ferrocerium magnesium rod and a sharp striker. The rod is protected inside the tube, you have to unscrew it and then assemble it to use it.

Design

Finishing is perfection, all parts lock together solidly with no wobbling and when you are striking the rod it is held in place securely. The rod is also replaceable on the nanoSTRIKER XL. The striker has 4 edges that can be used for producing sparks, two flat ones and two curved. From my own use I find the flat edges allow you to create the best flow of sparks.

ExoTac nanoSTRIKER XL. Close up of the striker, really sharp ends help create a good shower of sparks.
Teaching bushcraft, I do not use the ExoTac nanoSTRIKER XL as its too fiddly to constantly reassemble when demonstrating. However if you are travelling into the backcountry with one firesteel then the ExoTac nanoSTRIKER XL makes a good choice as it is protected against the elements, knocks and bumps, just be careful not to lose any of the parts! The included striker is also very reliable and creating a concentrated shower of sparks it is actually better than using the spine of a knife.

-Sunny