I've been wondering: why is the fire rod made with a 5/16" steel, instead of the 3/8" size that seems more common? Just curious.
I can't speak for Exotac, but I can relate my experience. Ferro rod manufacturers often sell rods by weight, with the price per kilo remaining the same regardless of individual rod size. With 5/16 in., you get a lot more rods per kilo than you would with 3/8 in. diameter. That means lower cost for Exotac, and they can then pass that savings on to the customer. Example from a recent quote: 25 kg of 3/8 in. x 4 in. rods: 525 pcs 25 kg of 5/16 in. x 4 in. rods: 750 pcs The price is the same either way, so the slightly thinner diameter is the standout winner.
