Since this is an extreme summer, are nato lifeboat matches safe in a bug out bag in a car trunk with temperatures soaring above 110? Never had to deal with this problem before. I don't want any spontaneous combustion going on in my trunk, that could get ugly!

Had them in my black backpack while houseboating last week and it was 110 outside and over 115 on the pavement... no problems. They sat in the houseboat which was over 100 almost every day with no problems. I`m sure they will last in your trunk at similiar temps. Car/Trunk temps get well above 120 btw. (Should be fine)

Lifeboat matches often get stored in-liferafts, heavy rubber affairs in compressed carriers and stowed with little climate control. Think Joseph Conrad and HEART OF DARKNESS, hot, humid nights crossing the Indian ocean or steaming up the Congo. Now go get a lemonade and stop worrying <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

While the subject came up ...Has anyone had any luck with different strikers for the matches?

Adam

Good question, I've been playing <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> with some lifeboat matches this week and found out all the strike surfaces for ether matches ( atleast the ones I have) worked just as well if not better than the one provided on the top of the lid.

I also rediscovered that jeans matterial works great with the lifeboat matches.

I like this thread.

Lifeboats are like learning to ride a bicycle until that magic moment you find your balance. I think girlfriends come next and you lose it again <img src="/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" /> The exterior striker on the white plastic canister is the Achilles heal. I just carry a generous supply of regular striker strips and have a good solid surface. Back to girls, give lifeboats to any rivals who smoke. It makes them look like real idjits <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Lazermonkey, are you saying that you can strike NATO lifeboat matches on your jeans... or on similar denim fabric.
Are you sure? Mine require the chemicals in the striking strip to ignite them.

<img src="/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />Sorry about the confusion. I light the match (by striking it on the matchbox) with all but the tip covered with a piece jeans material. The cloth helps the fire starting process. It only works well with worn out jeans. I also noticed that scratching of part of the varnish were you are going to strike helps with lighting the match.
I was wondering if anyone can explain the physical or chemical function of the strike strip and how come it works to help light the match? -Thanks
<img src="/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />

have a look at this old thread about safety matches .

Thank you Frenchy. <img src="/images/graemlins/ooo.gif" alt="" />