They are good with a tinder ball.
Best firestarter in the world is one of these:

http://www.heinnie.com/Lighters/Blazer-Lighters/Blazer-Lighters-Pocket-Micro-Torch-/p-101-859-6256/


I have owned one of these for more years than I care to think about. With the possible exception of a Zippo, there is nothing on the planet to touch this.

And before anyone says anything: Workes perfectly well below freezing. Just leave it in a pocket untill you need to use it.

No association with... etc, etc, etc.