Carabiner with fire starting implement

Abstract

The invention relates to a novel carabiner that can create sparks or a sustained flame in order to ignite material during outdoor activities. The carabiner has utility as a connecting device as well as its ability to ignite materials. The carabiner can contain a fold out utility blade which may be used to cut materials the user intends to ignite. The fire starting capability may be conducted with one hand which is a clear benefit to any user.

1 - 6 . (canceled) 
     
     
         7 . A carabiner, comprising:
 a carabiner frame;   a cavity formed in the frame, the cavity defining a surface;   a spark wheel mounted within the cavity; and   a sparking material provided within the frame, wherein the sparking material extends outwardly from the surface of the cavity.   
     
     
         8 . The carabiner of  claim 7 , wherein the cavity comprises a slot between two portions of the carabiner frame. 
     
     
         9 . The carabiner of  claim 8 , wherein the cavity is located at a corner of the frame. 
     
     
         10 . The carabiner of  claim 8 , further comprising a hole formed through the frame, wherein the hole intersects the cavity. 
     
     
         11 . The carabiner of  claim 10 , wherein the sparking material is disposed in the hole and is biased toward the spark wheel with a spring. 
     
     
         12 . The carabiner of  claim 7 , further comprising:
 a gate pivotally coupled to a first portion of the frame and configured to engage with a second portion of the frame,   wherein the gate is configured to rotate between an open position where the gate is disengaged from the second portion of the frame, and a closed position where the gate engaged with the second portion of the frame.   
     
     
         13 . The carabiner of  claim 7 , wherein the spark wheel is configured to rotate in contact with the sparking material to project a spark away from the frame. 
     
     
         14 . The carabiner of  claim 7 , further comprising a cutting tool provided with the frame. 
     
     
         15 . The carabiner of  claim 14 , wherein the cutting tool is fixed within the frame. 
     
     
         16 . The carabiner of  claim 7 , wherein the sparking material is a ferrocerium rod.