Tag Archives: Coghlans

Coghlan’s Sight-Grid Signal Mirror

Posted on by
Reply

As opposed to the BCB signal mirror (which has a shiny metallic finish) the Coghlan’s model has a glass reflection surface which is far superior when it comes to producing a strong flash of light. Metallic type finishes will soon lose their lustre, which dramatically reduces the brightness of flashes. Glass on the other hand, will provide you with much stronger and more powerful flashes for a very long time.

Although the Coghlan’s model is slightly larger, it’s by no means big and no less portable. It can easily slip into your pocket and is ultra-light. Additionally, the larger size of the Coghlan’s signal mirror is noticeably more ergonomic (making it easier to maneuver and less susceptible to dropping) and catches more light. The larger sighting hole also makes focusing and aiming less strenuous and less tedious.

The plastic sleeve it comes in can be reused and has a tab that can be tucked in, helping to protect the device from scratches. Because this signal mirror is literally a mirror, it can be used as such – something that is not really possible with the BCB model once it loses its reflective qualities. One similarity both models share are instructions on the back – a very handy feature.

  • Glass reflection surface for superior flash distance
  • Waterproof & Break-Resistant acrylic case
  • Instructions for use on back of signal mirror
  • Lanyard hole
  • Floats
Highly recommended

Made in Japan

Cost: Around CDN $12

www.coghlans.com

Coghlan’s Magnesium Fire Starter

Posted on by
Reply

Although the ubiquitous Magnesium Fire Starter has its share of drawbacks, for the price and convenience of having both a firesteel and reliable supply of tinder in a single “waterproof” package, you really can’t complain.

The idea that the magnesium doesn’t ignite in its block form, but only when shaved into fine pieces is absolutely brilliant (the magnesium shavings provide a flame source of 2,982°C). Having a readily available source of dry tinder in a survival situation can be a lifesaver. The entire device is unaffected by water and/or moisture, making it even more valuable when you need to start a fire in wet conditions.

The advantage this type of device has over traditional standalone firesteels is that it has a source of tinder attached to it. However, the drawback is that the firesteel rod on these blocks don’t stick out very far – it’s like having only a 1/4 of the rod available to you – the rest of it is buried inside the block itself. The other irritant of this otherwise fantastic device is the necessity of a sharp blade or some type of robust scraper to shave the magnesium block (the block of magnesium is quite hard). Scraping magnesium shavings off the main block can be time consuming and frustrating if you don’t have the right technique.

Cost: Around CDN $7