manmade tinder practice

Today I decided to finish off the second exercise in the Bushcraft forums Bushclass.  For this 5 manmade tinders need to be lit by ferro rod.  I selected the following materials, Tinderquick tab, FAT tinder, Esbit tablet, IGKNIGHT fire starter brick, steel wool, and Livefire.  Here are my experiences and observations.

Tinderquick:

This was the easiest of all to light.  It took only a single small spark, however it does burn out fairly quickly.  The ease of lighting makes them great for a real situation where you need a fire.  However I think really good prep will be needed in wet conditions due to reduced burn time.

FAT tinder:
These little tinders are what I have with my paracord bracelet.  Like the tinderquicks they are easy to light, but have a reduced burn time.  This can be extended by placing the rubber ranger band holding them on the bracelet into the mix.  They are nice because you can carry many in a small space and always have some available.  They are also sealed so they won't get wet.

Esbit tablet:
The Nesbit tablet is a real pain to light.  It took many attempts with a small ferro rod.  Obviously it is very long burning, since it is primarily for cooking, not fire lighting.  It also burned cooler than most of the other tinders.  This would not be my first choice to start a fire, but it would work in necessary.

IGKNIGHT bricks:
These are my second favorite tinders.  They are easy to light, though not as easy as a tinder quick.  They burn very hot and for a reasonably long time.  Generally half a tablet works well, and a full one in wet conditions will get stuff going.

Livefire:
This is always in my kit.  It lights fairly easily, has a very long burn time, and can be turned off easily by shutting the lid.  Thus it is good for starting many fires, as well as providing light or even cooking using my Emberlit Fireant if wood isn't available.  It is so useful, and really light.