It’s never a bad idea to be prepared for any type of emergency. If you one day find yourself in a situation where you need to start a fire for survival, having the right tool on hand could make a major difference. That’s why we were so excited to find this multifunctional lighter and bottle opener, which is designed to be a portable keychain.
The keychain weighs only 2.3 ounces and is less than three inches long. The two rings let you can attach keys to keep everything in one place, and you can use the carabiner to clip this to your bag, belt or somewhere else to keep it within easy reach. It’s waterproof and weatherproof, meaning yon can use the lighter in high winds, storms or cold conditions without issue. You can use the flint striker up to 15,000 times, making this a much longer-lasting purchase than a box of matches.
To operate the lighter, you do need to buy lighter fluid separately (the brand suggests only Ronson or Ronsonol lighter fluid, which you can buy on Amazon or at many gas stations or department stores) and fill the container up to half-full. Then use the striker against the steel rod to light a spark, and the flame will start burning the wick. From there, you can light candles, lanterns, propane, wood, charcoal and so much more with ease. Your purchase includes a spare wick for future use as well.
Providing a flame isn’t the only thing this handy keychain does, either. The keychain also includes a bottle opener for beer or soda bottles, so it’s a great tool to have on hand for camping, backyard barbecues or other outdoor occasions. This could even be a thoughtful gift for your favorite outdoorsy person or pragmatic survivalist.
Reviewers are impressed with the usefulness of this handy tool and the pocket-sized peace of mind it provides. “With the world on the brink of who knows what, I find myself taking emergency preparedness very seriously,” one reviewer wrote. “The permanent match is the ultimate for having fire no matter what the circumstances. The product is so portable, easy to use, and works every time. Buy one.”
Another reviewer praised the quality of the keychain, saying, “I’ve brought others only to find out they were made of plastic and always leaked and were a fire hazard nightmare. This one hasn’t leaked yet and is all metal so should last a lifetime. A great product.”
You never know what situation you’ll find yourself in, and having a way to start a fire could be a major factor in your safety and survival. For all that, $18 seems like a small price to pay. Below, check out some more promising reviews from people who love this practical gadget.
“Lights first try, everytime. Easy to use and even works well in the wind. Great addition to my gear! The extra wick and “O” ring that come with it are bonus. I have purchased multiple items from this seller. Great job SURVIVE for another well done product.” — Bombmom
“This permanent match fire starter is great! I have taken it camping and I love how it is easy to use and how I can just clip it on to my bag and also use it as a bottle opener.” — Andrea
“This has been my favorite key chain for many years, I had a similar version for a few years before the bottle opener part fell off and got lost. This one is nice and sturdy with with a little lighter fluid the lighter portion lights right up, great survival tool you can keep on your person. I really like the double key ring feature as well it makes sorting my keys easier.” — J.L
“Really liked the permanent match, it was super easy to fill and use. It worked as expected. I used Zippo lighter fluid and after scratching the protective coding of the rod it lit perfectly with one strike. I like that it’s small and has a bottle opener. The clip part works great and it’s something that I can easily clip on to my backpack. It’s not very thick but just right, it does feel really sturdy. I would definitely gift these to family and friends.” — Daniel Marrero
“Nice little thing to have around for when you don’t think you need it but you end up needing it, lol. I wouldn’t necessarily use this as my primary lighter, granted I don’t smoke, but it makes a cool gift or handy tool in case you were to ever need it.” — Martin
Looking for more emergency supplies? Check out these options at Target, rounded up by contributor James Barrett:
A solar generator from a reader-favorite brand
If you lose electricity, this solar-powered generator will become your new best friend. Weighing just over two pounds, it can fully charge two mobile devices, one laptop and one tablet. The best part? It uses environmentally friendly solar charging.
Coghlan’s Bear Bell
If you’re hiking in the woods, please bring a bear bell with you. This model comes with a magnetic silencer and carry strap for easy access to attach to your clothes or backpack. The steady ringing can warn bears when you’re around. When not in use, the magnet will alleviate any annoyance, halting the ringing sound.
A two-week supply of food
Keeping a food supply kit in your home is a good idea. This two week kit includes packs to make items such as: maple brown sugar oatmeal, cheesy broccoli rice, creamy potato soup, banana chips and more. Preparation is simple — just add water. Although it says it’s enough for one person for two weeks, there are 140 servings that can be shared.
A pair of two-way radios with built-in flashlights
In case you lose electricity and cell phone service, keeping a pair of two-way radios can keep the line of communication open in a tough situation. With 22 channels and 121 privacy codes, the radios feature NOAA weather channels and alerts, FM radio and a 35-mile radius. There are also built-in flashlights to help in a blackout.
A rechargeable LED lantern
Don’t depend on your phone flashlight in dire situations. This rechargeable LED flashlight can literally light up any room with its 360-degree glow of up to 1200 lumens. The lantern will keep you lit for up to 7 hours while also charging your device with a built-in USB port. Choose between different light settings from high, low and for a good night’s sleep, night light.
A canine first aid kit
This canine medical kit includes detailed instructions with supplies including: splinter/tick remover, cohesive elastic bandage and an instruction booklet that contains expert advice from a veterinarian and animal behaviorist.