You can use a knife to strike a ferro rod to create sparks for fire-starting purposes. In fact, many survival knives are designed with a 90-degree edge on the spine specifically for this purpose. However, it is important to note that you should never strike the ferro rod with the sharp blade of your knife.
When you strike a ferro rod with the sharp edge of your knife blade, it can cause the blade to get dull very quickly. The force and friction generated when striking the ferro rod can quickly wear down the cutting edge of the blade, reducing its sharpness and cutting ability. This is something you definitely want to avoid, especially in a survival situation where having a sharp knife is crucial for various tasks.
Instead, it is recommended to use the flat, squared-off back edge of your knife blade to strike the ferro rod. This part of the blade is typically thicker and more durable, making it better suited for striking the ferro rod without affecting the cutting edge.
It’s worth mentioning that not all knives have a 90-degree edge on the spine, so it’s important to choose a survival knife that does have this feature if you plan on using it with a ferro rod. This squared-off edge provides a better surface for generating sparks when striking the ferro rod.
In terms of technique, you can hold the knife firmly in your hand, with your thumb resting on the spine of the knife. Position the ferro rod on a stable surface or against a tinder bundle, and then use a swift and controlled motion to strike the ferro rod with the back edge of the knife. This should create sparks that can ignite your tinder and start a fire.
While you can use a knife to strike a ferro rod, it is important to avoid using the sharp blade of the knife. Instead, utilize the flat, squared-off back edge of the blade to strike the ferro rod and create sparks for fire-starting. By doing so, you can avoid dulling the cutting edge of your knife and ensure its usefulness for other tasks in a survival situation.