I try to carry at least 3 different ways of firemaking, sometimes more, since they are usually quite light.

I still like matches, although after 10 years of storage, I've found them to be iffy. My fault. I like the REI's, but once the chemical coating burns off, they go out. You have 15 seconds of great flame, then good luck. I prefer a regular match with 45 seconds of good (not great) flame.

I tested different ferrocerium rods out on my last camping trip. I was very surprised at the difference. The larger ones not only put out a lot more sparks, but much, much hotter and longer lasting. I still keep a small one on my keychain, but pack the big boys for everything else.

I still love my zippo, but pack bics also.

It's interesting discussion sitting at my computer, but when I'm wet and shivering, I don't really care how. Knowing different techniques with different equipment give me options, which I appreciate.

Next camping trip, I'm going to try some old road flares I've had laying around for years...