Burn, baby, burn: Lighters

Need fire, not fuss? Go with a lighter. Just don’t depend on it. Fuel or flint may run out when you need it most. Butane lighters are notoriously fickle when used at or below freezing temperatures. As with all things mechanical, beware of Murphy.

Brunton Helios $85 GearScout Approved
PRO: Intense flame that is impervious to wind. The best choice for a lighter, if you can afford it. A set of tight seals keep it waterproof. We lit ours while hanging out a car window with no problem. It blowtorch-like flame will light the most difficult to burn material. A worthy survival tool.
CON: The downside is high cost and how quickly it burns through it’s butane fuel. Also be aware it may not work well at altitude or below freezing.

Zippo Slim $19
PRO: Practical and relatively inexpensive. Doesn’t burn through fuel like a butane lighter. Almost a survival tool. Will work in the cold.
CON: The flame is relatively weak and won’t work when wet. Fuel level needs constant attention. Even when left unused, the fuel slowly evaporates.

Bic $2
PRO: Cheap, light and ubiquitous. Not very durable or reliable. Not a survival tool.
CON:It can break easily and not work at all at altitude or when cold. Not a survival tool.