The Tag-Z Doan Fire Starter is an exact replica of the Doan Government Military Issued Fire Starter, adopted by the US Armed Forces for use in their survival kits. This is one life-saving tool no outdoorsman should be without. Its size makes it convenient for pocket or tackle box. You can count on it to work, wet or dry, even with damp kindling. HOW IT WORKS By scraping the "shaving edges" with the blade, you will accumulate a pile of magnesium shavings. Simply scrape the "sparking insert" to ignite the shavings to temperatures of 5400°F, hot enough to light even the most stubborn campfire! STEP 1 Support edge of tool on ground. Scrape narrow side of tool marked "SHAVING EDGE" with knife blade held perpendicular to tool. Amass small pile of magnesium about the size of a quarter next to tinder. (paper. leaves, small twigs, bark, etc.) STEP 2 Support edge of tool on ground within 1" of magnesium shavings at approximately 45° angle. Scrape entire length of side marked "SPARKING INSERT" rapidly with knife held perpendicular to SPARKING INSERT. This action will cause generate sparks, causing the magnesium shavings to ignite, providing a white hot flame. If you don't want to dull your knife, a small hacksaw blade works great!