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.
Windproof butane lighters are generally of the torch variety. These lighters feature a high-pressure flame which can be directed to any angle, even upside down. This flame is also extremely resistant to being blown out or to being blown around by the wind. In fact, it is generally not necessary to shelter this flame with one’s hands when lighting the device in the wind. This makes them very popular with cigar and pipe smokers who require a controllable flame.
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.
Where fluid-filled lighters are concerned, there is a caveat. These lighters may produce a very large flame when under high-wind conditions. The flame may also fly to the side of the lighter which can present a hazard. The butane models have the strong jets which prevent this from happening. While fluid-lighters are reliable and time-tested, torch lighters have the advantage of cutting-edge technology. Either will provide excellent and reliable service.
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.