Chris,

I agree with your statements about wooden matches (preferably strike anywhere) except on one account: Most kids don't know how to use matches of any sort. I have to teach them (Scouts). For what it's worth, most know how to use a BIC - or at least, how to accidentally burn themselves with a BIC...

Take a random sample of 100 12 - 13 year olds, put them outdoors, and have them do something simple with a match - like light a candle. It's eye-opening.

I can still obtain kitchen matches, but it's getting harder for the reason you stated. And the penny-pinchers (or legal worriers?) have in fact reduced the tips. I have some "vintage" ones and there is no doubt.

Tom