Matches have been around for quite some time, they have been carried, and used by most outdoorsmen. Matches tend to be frowned upon these days as a reliable ignition source for fire due to the match stick breaking (this can be attributed to the individuals technique the majority of the time), or the head of the match becoming too wet to ignite. I see a lot of survival kits and fire kits nowadays that include several items for getting a fire going, but the match is typically not one of those items. Granted, technology and innovation have brought us a long way in providing us with many great options for starting fires. Even with all these options, matches are still an easy-to-use, low-tech way to get a fire going that anyone can use.

When I’m out in the woods, even if it’s only for a short day hike I have matches in my pack, and in my pocket. In my pack I keep my UCO Titan Stormproof match kit. The matches are contained in a larger waterproof container, along with spare strikers. In my pocket, along with my knife, is my old school match case with UCO Strike Anywhere matches. I figure that if I experience a worst case scenario, where I get separated from my pack and am unable to make it home. I’ll be able to survive through the night as long as I have my blade, and a way to make fire. I’ve tried other brands of the strike anywhere matches over the years, but the UCO brand seem to be the most reliable for me.

UCO Stormproof Matches and Strike Anywhere Matches

UCO Gear has been one of those companies that provides innovative products for the outdoorsman. UCO stands for Utility, Comfort, and Originality. All of these traits can be found in their many products including their line of stormproof matches, and strike anywhere matches. UCO has taken the original match and crafted it into an extremely reliable match for use in extreme environments, or lighting up the family barbecue. The UCO Titan Stormproof Matches are designed with a more rigid stick to eliminate the possibility of the stick breaking, and are extremely resistant to the elements (wind and water). Since testing these matches over the past several months, they have become a staple in my small, effective fire kit. Lets take a look at some of the features and advantages of the Titan Stormproof Matches.

• Received Gear Junkie “Best in Show” 2015 Award.

• Received Backpacker Magazine Editor’s Choice Snow Award 2015.

• Longest-burning windproof and waterproof matches.

• Matches are easy to light and will relight after being submerged in water.