I’ve been carrying and using the Exotac nanoSTRIKER XL for a few months now. It has been a great, reliable, and compact fire steel. But where does it fall into the mix when it comes to my woods kit and everyday carry?
I’ll go ahead and say right up front that the nanoSTRIKER XL is THE BEST EDC Firesteel in my opinion. But let’s read on and I’ll tell you why in my full Exotac nanoSTRIKER XL Review!
Shown Above: Benchmade Proper 319 and Exotac nanoSTRIKER XL
Compact but Capable
What I love the most about the Exotac nanoSTRIKER XL is how compact it is, without sacrificing usability. This little everyday carry sized ferro rod allows you to easily get a strong grip on its handle. While still having a good grip on its super sharp tungsten carbide striker as well.
What’s even better for everyday carry? Since the entire nanoSTRIKER XL ferro rod resides in an Aluminum and waterproof body, you are not going to break it. That’s always been a huge concern for me when trying to EDC other compact firesteels.
Exotac nanoSTRIKER XL Quality
As with everything I’ve owned from Exotac, they put a lot of work into this product. Going back to the Tungsten Carbine striker – These are hands down the best strikers on the market. They’re incredibly sharp and don’t lose their edge over time. I mentioned it back in my Polystriker XL Review and I’ll echo it here, I wish every firesteel had this exact striker.
As for the rest of the firesteel: It’s phenomenal. The ferrocerium rod itself throws very hot sparks, hasn’t worn down a lot with my usage and it’s replaceable, which is super cool. And, as I made mention of earlier – The Aluminum body is fantastic. It not only gives great protection for the ferro rod, but it has fantastic grip and is precision machined right here in the USA.
Shown Above: Exotac nanoSTRIKER XL and Cold Steel Finn Hawk (previously reviewed here)
Used as a Primary Firesteel?
Often times, with smaller firesteels they aren’t quite up to par for being used as a primary firesteel (more as a backup). But, I must say, I would trust the Exotac nanoSTRIKER XL without hesitation if it were my only firesteel in the field. I’ve had fantastic results from this little guy!
Exotac nanoSTRIKER XL Review (10 out of a 10)
This was a very easy product to love and recommend to you guys & gals. It fits a very specific spot in my EDC that I’ve been looking for, for a very long while. At the same time, it doesn’t sacrifice usability for its small size. It performs reliably, as all of us dedicated outdoorsman (and women) need when it comes to being in the outdoors. If you’re looking to buy the Exotac nanoSTRIKER XL, I would recommend it without hesitation!
Update February 2020: Head over to Exotac.com and use coupon code “anthonyawaken” for 20% off!
Shown Above: Helle Wabakimi, Hidden Woodsmen Haversack, Crud Gjora Gloves, and Exotac nanoSTRIKER XL
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