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UCO Stormproof Matches

rated 5.0 of 5 stars
photo: UCO Stormproof Matches fire starter

The UCO Stormproof Matches are great for all types of weather. No matter the conditions, you can count on getting a fire started with these matches.

Pros

  • Flames lasts a long time.
  • Product lives up to claims of being stormproof.
  • Comes with extra striking surfaces.
  • Waterproof container.

Cons

  • Striking surface does not appear to be stormproof

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These matches are amazing. They are definitely stormproof. I’ve taken these matches with me in all seasons in all sorts of weather conditions. They haven’t failed me once. I live in Washington where it’s wet and cold seven months out of the year. I’ve started a fire with these in the rain and snow as well as in the humid summer air.

These matches have a long burn time too, so if something doesn’t catch right away, that’s okay! You have some time to adjust some things before the match burns up.

There’s enough space in the top of the containers lid to store some firestarting material. The product originally came with some cotton balls. You also get a couple extra striking surfaces to replace the one on the outside once it’s all used up. It’s pretty easy to replace.

The only downside to this product is that the striking surface is not stormproof, so using it to strike your matches on can pose a challenge if you didn’t store the container in a dry place. I’ve only had a problem with that once. I recommend only taking out the matches container when you’re ready to use it so you don’t risk the striking surface getting too wet.

Background

I’ve had this product for about three years. I’ve had a great experience with these matches.

Source: received it as a personal gift

Dependable flame, every time.

Pros

  • Nearly impossible to blow out
  • Ignites after getting wet
  • Burns through torrential rain
  • Long burn time (compared to most matches)

Cons

  • Long burn time—could be a hazard in dry conditions!

At one point in my life I was a professional pyrotechnician and owned my own business. We shot professional shows and designed electronic firing systems. After having to ignite fireworks in practically every weather condition imaginable (and after having just about every failure you can think of!) the one thing that always worked for us was Orion road flares.

These matches are just like emergency road flares. They strike when wet. They burn reliably and predictably regardless of wind or rain. They burn long enough to start a stove or get a campfire going. 

Just remember that they'll keep burning even after being doused in water. You have to let them burn out before dousing them or risk starting a brushfire!

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $2.97 for a pack of 25 at WalMart (cheapest source found so far)

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The UCO Stormproof Matches is the same as the UCO Stormproof Match Kit.

Specs

Price Current Retail: $5.99-$9.95
Historic Range: $2.75-$9.95
Product Details from UCO »

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