Lighting A Cigar With A Zippo

Where cigars are concerned, Zippo lighters are something of a controversy. Zippo, of course, is the most well-known manufacturer of fluid-filled lighters. Any fluid-filled lighter will be the subject of the same controversy as are that manufacturer’s. The debate stems from the fluid itself and how it affects”or doesn’t affect, depending upon who one asks”the flavor of the cigar.

Lighter fluid burns with a distinctive smell. It has an oily consistency which makes it highly-prized for its being able to burn in even very windy conditions. Lighter fluid has a taste which is detectable by some individuals and not at all detectable by others. Different fluids are said to affect this characteristic, as well. Whether or not this is true is entirely up to the individual to decide. Some cigar smokers would not for a minute consider giving up their prized Zippo; others would hesitate to light a fine cigar with anything other than a wooden match or a cedar strip.

Butane lighters are another popular choice. When these lighters came out, they were almost universally cheap and disposable. Today, there are lighters that use butane for fuel that are of as high a quality as any fluid-filled lighter. Many of them are windproof, offering some stiff competition to fluid-filled lighters in that regard, as well. While this may be a concern when out in the elements, however, most cigar smoking is done in much less-extreme conditions and most choices in lighting devices are made according to taste more than they are according to concerns regarding their ability to function in trying conditions.

Fluid-filled lighters are still very popular and, because many are given away to mark special occasions, many individuals have a nostalgic attachment to them. There are several brands of lighter fluid available which are formulated to eliminate the chemical taste. Even if a lighter fluid does give this taste, it is usually only for the first few puffs and it dissipates quickly.

Some smokers claim that they can’t taste a thing and, if one is using one of the high-quality fluids, this is likely true. If a Zippo happens to be something to which one is very attached, consider using a high-end lighter fluid to ensure the best smoking experience. It’s not only good for taste; it’s good for the lighter.

Ryder is the owner of an online specialty refillable butane lighter store and has expert knowledge of smoking accessories, including lotus lighters.

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