Sparks problem

[falcon]

I'm not having much success making sparks on a Strike-a-light using a new Lapp Pukko. I assume it's down to the black coating on the edge of the knife but thought I'd check out other opinions before I sand or grind the edge. I'd be grateful for anyone's thoughts.

[TheViking]

Hi...

Do you hold the firesteel on the spine of the knife and then pull the firesteel backwards, in a fast motion? I had to experiment a little with the angle before succes. :wink: :biggthump

[falcon]

Yes, the same technique as with my Woodcraft knife which produces a shower of sparks although I'll perhaps vary the angle a little to see if that works for the Pukko.

[TheViking]

Hi...

Is the steel stainless? This could be an issue, but I have a few stainless ones and they do exactly as good as the carbon. :roll: :-)

[falcon]

I'm pretty sure it's carbon steel

[Adi007]

The blades can be a bit soft to cast lots of sparks. You have to find a good angle and use more pressure than normal. It works, just not as effective as harder steels.

[Paganwolf]

The back of your blade may need filing flat, look at the back of the blade and feel it it may have slightly rounded edges, you will need a good sharp edge to produce your sparks, flatten it by rubbing it on your sharpening stone or on some wet and dry paper :biggthump

[Tantalus]

alternative would be to use a short piece of hacksaw blade

i have one attached to a string on the firesteel

means i can carry whatever knife i want, without worrying if it will spark :-)

Tant