A windproof lighter is a basic piece of equipment for those who enjoy the outdoors. These devices come in several different designs. There are different characteristics that make them windproof. Some of them are made windproof by the flame they generate and some by the fuel they use. Others simply have extended wind guards that provide extra shelter for the flame. No matter what method is used, these are very useful devices for luxury and for emergencies.
There are two basic types of windproof torches: jet lighters and fluid-filled lighters. They offer their windproof performance for very different reasons. The jet lighters use a high-pressure flame. The butane is ejected from the jets with enough force to keep it close to the ignition area, even in the wind. Standard butane lighters will have their fuel dispersed by the wind which results in the user doing the classic move of sheltering it with their hand while lighting it.
Fluid-filled lighters use their fuel as their means of insulating the flame against the wind. Lighter fluid is an oily substance which is slow to evaporate. Unlike a standard butane lighter, the fuel cannot be blown away from the wick. These lighters are also very waterproof which makes them suitable for rainy conditions. The lighter fluid is less attractive to cigar and pipe smokers, however, because of the taste it imparts to tobacco.
Windproof torches with multiple jets also tend to garner a few style points with those who see the lighter in action. The strong blue flames have the appearance of an actual torch which makes them quite a sight. Where lighting a cigar or a pipe is concerned, there are other advantages. Lighting either requires that the flame be held to the tobacco for a time. In windy conditions with a standard butane lighter, this will prove to be impossible in most cases. Even fluid-filled lighters cannot offer the same efficiency.
In many cases, which lighter proves to be the best option simply has to do with the preference of the user. Those who prefer the classic look will likely go for a fluid-filled model. Those who are enamored of the newest technology will likely prefer one of the butane models. Most of these lighters are very high quality and can be counted on to endure the most rugged conditions and to provide reliable service for years.
Dave Sabot is the owner of specialty cigar lighters store. With expert knowledge of cigar accessories, including windproof lighters, Dave also owns an online cigar humidors store.
