Soloman, I've been using brass rods to make lanyard holes for firesteels. In the US they are sold in different lengths and diameters specifically for hobbyists. I found mine cheapest at Grainger, a "small business supply store" chain. They described them as being "Seamless For Plumbing, HVAC And Automotive." The Interenet showed me many other buying options so I'm confident that if you look around you can find them.
Make certain that the diameter measurement they give you is for the outer diameter. You want it to match the hole you drill.
- Woodsorrel