I have practiced with mine and can generate a glowing ember with the "tinder fungus" recommended every time. I have tried other tinders with varying success. The gasket does require some maintenance and occasional replacement. It takes (at least for me) several "plunges" to generate a glowing ember. After the first plunge you can begin to smell the tinder smoldering and after the 2nd or 3rd plunge the tinder is glowing. From my prospective, one should carry a waterproof match safe/matches, magnesium block or lighter before considering the fire piston. But it is still real cool to be able to create a fire with the piston. Pete