Is there a reason why strike-anywhere matches are rarely used in many survival kits today? I can see them not being used for safety reasons. I mean, they could roll around in the kit and ignite when struck on something, but if the entire head of the match were coated in wax I don't see how this could happen. Besides a minimal amount of weight and space could be saved in the kit. Minimal yes, but saved. <br>I ask this question because the striking surface used with matches today could get wet or lost. Then what? The matches would be usless.<br><br>

Rarely used?I carry lifeboats,strike anywhere,a sparklite with tinder,a zippo,flint,candles,magnifiing glass and learned to make various bowdrills.As for this Zen like search for the ultimate pocket kit-well I carry more than one can now.If I get wierd looks I pretend its a art deco cell phone and talk to it.<br><br>

I guess I'm an old school type of guy, but, I've carried them for the past 35 years along with other sources of ignition..and we still use them to light the stove, lanterns and oil lamps.... at home when the power goes down.<br><br>