Exotac's founders combined a passion for the outdoors with the rigid discipline of their engineering studies and profession. The result is a line of niche outdoor products that mostly focuses on backcountry fire starting.

I tested the Exotac nanoSTRIKER recently. The product has created a buzz in the industry since it's compact - 14.5 grams.

The nanoSTRIKER is a ferrocerium rod striking fire starting tool. And it works similar to others on the market - quickly rub the striker across the ferrocerium rod. If all is done correct sparks should fly.

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It takes a few tries running the striker across the rod to get a good handle on the nanoSTRIKER. I was really impressed how it performed. It's quick assembly, disassembly and size make it practical for super ultralight backpacking.

I do suggest still taking some waterproof matches in case you run out of Vaseline slathered cotton balls or lose the nanoSTRIKER. And Exotac offers a LIFECAP and Stormproof Matches to meet that need too.

Exotac boasts the ferrocerium rod and striker are good for 1,000 fire starting strikes. The company sells replacements for the ferrocerium rod and the striker if you wear out both. That is a possibility. Outside of being your "go-to" backcountry firestarter, you'll see some jaws drop when you show the Exotac nanoSTRIKER off at the next beer blast and barbeque. Just don't try to light your buddy's gas grill with it - only bad things can happen. (MSRP $26.95)