Welcome to the forum. All of your questions have been covered in the past. Finding them might take a while <img src="images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />. The striker from a road flare is a good option. I can ignite LBMs with a regular Strike Anywhere strip on a firm surface ( PSK box.) I think practise with the better part of a vial is the real key to success. It's like bicycles, once you pattern your muscles and the correct motion it is much easier. The nitro vials will work.To save space merely wind the thread around your largest awl, or the needles as a group. The very nature of the tins makes access clumsy anyway. I prioritise my packing to have firemaking on top. I figure if I only have the tin left I am in trouble and need a fire ASAP. Then I can calmly remove the other gear to fabricate or gather supplies and gear.