Matches and lighters are great when they work...when they are dry, when they aren't frozen, etc. Having a backup so you can start a fire - one of the rudiments of survival - is critical. A ferrocerium rod is a great option. When you slide the striker along the rod it shaves off flakes which ignite to 3000 degrees and can be used to light tinders on fire. You aren't going to light a log with it: cotton balls, wood shavings, fire tabs, WetFire will be your tinder of choice. 

Whats great about Ferro rods is they can be used even when wet and in the rain. 

UST makes a nice compact striker and rod combo that weights around an ounce and is only 3 inches long. They call it the Spark Force. They typically run for less than $8 and are a great addition to an EDC or BOB. 

The rod is a little smaller than others which can make it a little more challenging to strike with, but it's compact size makes up for it, since it's ultraportable.

If you buy anything with the links we provide on this page we get a small percentage of the sale. For more info click here.