Cigar Lovers' Lighters: A Personal Collection

As a passionate cigar smoker, I have been using lighters for almost four decades, perfecting my cigar lighting ritual. In this article, I will share my collection of two butane flame lighters and delve into my personal experiences with cigar smoking and lighters.

Long-standing Favourites

I currently own two lighters, both butane flame models, and I have been using variations of my favourites in different colors for over 37 years. My primary lighter is used for larger cigars and features a specific canister of butane fuel. I usually opt for lime green or yellow as they are easy to spot. Though the BIC lighter is often the go-to choice recommended by smokers, it was inconvenient when the company removed the volume switch, as it was instrumental at times.

Disposable Lighters

Any disposable Bic butane lighter works just fine for me. I keep one or two on hand for emergencies. I have let people who forgot their lighters use mine, and it has even come in handy for lighting fireworks. When the end of the world (or something similar) approaches, I'll be prepared to answer the call of Surtr.

Zippo and Beyond

Alongside my BIC lighters, I also own a Zippo lighter that I received from a Mac Tools truck. However, I have never used it or even purchased fluid for it. Contrarily, I do not rely on a lighter for any other habits or activities. For more robust tasks, such as heat shrink and soldering, I use a durable butane lighter that has proven to be versatile.

A Brief History of Smoking and Lighting

Now, let's take a moment to look back at my cigar smoking and lighting history. At present, I use a flint yellow lighter that costs just ￡1 per pack of four. While I have a few Zippo lighters in my collection, I am not a dedicated collector. Despite my appreciation for their craftsmanship and functionality, I currently have no pictures of any Zippo lighters in my possession.

For cigar smokers and lighter enthusiasts, understanding the functionality and versatility of different lighters is crucial for a satisfying experience. My personal collection and experiences can offer valuable insights into how to choose and use a lighter effectively.