Ferro rod or fire-starter cubes — which should I buy?

They solve different problems. Across specialist subreddits like r/Bushcraft and r/Survival, the consensus is that a ferrocerium rod is the most weatherproof, never-runs-out option for emergencies and bushcraft practice. Wax-and-wood-wool cubes are far easier and faster for everyday charcoal grilling, fire pits, and wood stoves. Many reviewers carry both: a ferro rod for the kit, cubes for the backyard.