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Bushcraft Bob.
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March 4, 2025 at 2:40 pm #2183
Peak Packer
ModeratorWindproof Lighters vs. Regular Lighters – A Totally Scientific Experiment
I wanted to see just how well my windproof lighters compared to the average convenience store Bic, so I did some “extensive” backyard testing (translation: I stood outside for 10 minutes like a weirdo with a handful of lighters).
Test #1: The Gentle Breeze Challenge 🌬️
- Regular Bic: Flicked on easily. Not bad.
- Windproof Plasma Lighter: Arced up like a sci-fi weapon. No issues.
- Torch Lighter: Instant jet flame. Basically a pocket dragon.
Test #2: The “Blow On It Like You’re Trying to Cool Soup” Test
- Regular Bic: Went out instantly.
- Plasma Lighter: Didn’t even notice my breath attack.
- Torch Lighter: Still lit.
Test #3: The Fan on Full Blast Test
- Regular Bic: LOL.
- Plasma Lighter: Winner. No effect.
- Torch Lighter: Held strong, but had to angle it right.
Final conclusion? Windproof lighters are worth every penny. I’ll still keep a regular Bic around for emergencies, but when I’m camping in gusty conditions, plasma or torch lighters are the real MVPs.
March 9, 2025 at 10:55 am #2215The RV Way
ModeratorLighter Maintenance – Because Even the Best Need Some TLC
You wouldn’t expect your car to run forever without an oil change, right? Well, the same goes for lighters. If you want your trusty windproof lighter to last, here are some simple things I do to keep mine in top shape:
For Plasma Lighters:
🔌 Charge it before trips. Seems obvious, but I’ve forgotten more times than I’d like to admit.
🧽 Keep the electrodes clean. A little dirt or soot can mess with the arc. I use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol for a quick clean.For Refillable Butane/Torch Lighters:
⛽ Purge old butane before refilling. Trapped air can make it sputter. I press the refill valve with a small screwdriver before adding fresh fuel.
🔥 Adjust the flame height. Some lighters let you tweak the flame size—handy for different conditions.Taking five minutes to do this now and then means I don’t end up with a non-working lighter when I need it most. Because nothing’s worse than standing in the cold, flicking a dead lighter, and questioning your life choices.
March 12, 2025 at 11:31 am #2270Bushcraft Bob
ModeratorWindproof Lighters vs. Matches – The Fire Starter Showdown
I used to be a “matches guy.” There’s something about the old-school flick of a wooden match that makes me feel like an expert survivalist… until the wind kicks up, and suddenly I’m just a guy cursing at a pile of soggy matchsticks.
So, let’s break it down:
🔥 Matches – Pros & Cons
✔️ Cheap & lightweight
✔️ No need to refill or recharge
✔️ Great for looking dramatic when striking one in the dark
❌ Useless in wind
❌ Soaked in rain = campfire dreams crushed🔥 Windproof Lighters – Pros & Cons
✔️ Works in wind, rain, and all-around bad luck weather
✔️ Refillable or rechargeable = long-term use
✔️ Feels like carrying a tiny flamethrower (responsibly, of course)
❌ Needs fuel or charging (so don’t forget!)
❌ Slightly bulkier than a matchboxMoral of the story? Windproof lighters win every time for camping. Matches are fine as a backup, but I’d rather rely on something that won’t betray me when I need fire the most.
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