subject: Is Your Zippo The Right Choice For Lighting That Cigar? [print this page] If you are new to the world of cigars, it can be a confusing place, particularly the lighting process. You'll find a lot of information out there that's a bit conflicting. However, one of the first things that you should learn is what you can and cannot use to light your cigar. For instance, if you are contemplating lighting your cigar with a Zippo lighter, you should put the lighter down and back away. Why should you not use a Zippo to light up your smoke? What happens that's so important to avoid?
First, Zippos use standard lighter fluid. This is that smelly stuff that you don't want to get on your hands. However, while the fluid smells, the flame and the smoke from the flame do as well. Lighter fluid contains numerous impurities, which, when burned, put off a foul odor. If you use that lighter to fire up your cigar, you'll find that those tastes and odors are imparted to your cigar. This will ruin the taste of your cigar and leave you with a lackluster experience, to say the least.
A better option is to use a butane lighter, such as a torch lighter. These are available in single jet, dual jet or triple jet configurations. This allows you to ensure that the entire foot of your cigar is lit at the same time. In addition, butane does not have the same number of impurities that you'll find in lighter fluid.
Dedicated cigar smokers prefer to use matches, or matches and cedar shavings to light up. They do this because the aromas and tastes emitted from burning cedar can have a pleasant effect on your cigar. Of course, you likely do not have the time or patience for this method, so torch lighters should be your lighters of choice. In addition to the benefits derived from using butane, these lighters are windproof and available in single, double and even triple jet forms. That means you can light up in even a strong wind.
Hopefully, you can see that the use of Zippos is not a good idea and will result in a subpar smoking experience. Save your cigar's flavor and aroma by using a quality butane lighter. You will find that purchasing a dual or triple jet lighter will even help ensure that you're able to light that cigar on the first try every time.
