Is a thicker 6-inch ferro rod worth it over a compact 4-inch one?

Reviewers and specialist communities generally say the thicker 1/2-inch by 6-inch rods are easier to grip with cold hands or gloves and throw a heavier spark shower, while 3/8-inch by 4-inch rods are lighter and easier to carry in an EDC or survival kit. The trade-off is portability versus spark volume; both light fires reliably according to verified-purchase and community feedback.