I haven't been too too enthralled with mine, although they're nice to have around JIC. I have several fire starting options stashed in the truck, as well as flammable materials, so it has really become a "which do I want to use" sorta thing<img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />. I find it difficult to get just the right amount of pressure to throw out the best shower of sparks, so it could just be me though. I prefer my magnesium block for pure heat output. They're not bad for the money though, and you can always use a knife to strike it if you have trouble with the lever.