Regarding dryer lint, although it works either way, it is MUCH more flammable if you use dryer sheets. By the way so is the stuff that accumulates in your dryer.

As for firesteels, I've found a huge difference in the shower of sparks depending on the scraper used. The one that came with my Magfire is smooth and doesn't put out a ton of sparks. I used my buddy's serrated one and the difference was amazing. I'm going to tried and true pieces of a hacksaw blade from now on.

Vaseline soaked cotton balls always work for me and burn plenty long enough to get something going.