Ion Flashlight Firestarter

Designed by pilots for pilots, the Ion Flashlight Firestarter could become your new best friend if you enjoy fly-in camping or have the misfortune of experiencing an emergency landing away from civilization. Produced by Solo Scientific in New Hartford, New York, the ion is an all-electric unit that combines an LED light source, a fire starter and a magnetic tool.

The pocket-size, 4.64-ounce unit is powered by two AA batteries, which are included, and Solo Scientific claims the batteries will power the flashlight for 48 continuous hours or provide enough power to light hundreds of fires. The single-bulb white-light LED has a life expectancy of 50,000 hours and comes with a lifetime replacement warranty.

Beside the LED, what looks like the tip of a lighter is actually a protective cover beneath which lies a small metal coil that is capable of reaching 1,250 degrees F — plenty of heat to ignite combustible material and start a fire. The element can also be used to cauterize wounds, though you may not want to experiment with that unless you are a medical professional.

The protective cap is magnetic and can be attached to the magnetic base of the flashlight. The magnets can also come in handy if you need to pick up small metal pieces, such as a bolt or a nut from your airplane.

You can purchase the ion Flashlight Firestarter at Aircraft Spruce for $129.95.