Actualy,getting magnesium to ignite in a large block is impossible. They just sat there getting hot. A VW has gasoline to create the high temp necessary for ignition ( lousy people's car fuel line was the culprit). I carry the small sparklite tool and a good supply of of the tinder. It looks like a cigarette filter. This material when pulled open has never failed me.Many of the other trioxane, firepaste and other tinders will degrade when exposed.You can buy the 10pk tinder seperate ( I patronise Major Surplus N Survivor, or you can order direct from Four Seasons and Barry at Blue Line may also carry them). Another good secondary tinder are the German Esbit pocket stove fuel tabs. They look like white ceramic blocks, have a good burn time and are impervious to all but a smashing blow from a rambo Knife. " God didn't make Rambo, I made Rhambo"-Richard Crenna. Know we know who to blameLOL.