As experienced pipe smokers can attest, the quality of the smoking experience is dependent upon the quality of the equipment. In other words, poorly designed pipes will make it hard to draw the smoke and keep a light, and the negative byproducts of tasteless or bitter tobacco go without saying.
However, many pipe smokers—some of whom have been enjoying tobacco for several years—are unaware of the perks, benefits, and advantages of investing in a specially designed best pipe lighter. Today’s top pipe lighters make it easier to light pipes and assure that they stay lit. What’s more, is that these pipe lighters are affordable and built to last for years down the road.
The best lighters for pipe on the market are reviewed and analyzed here, and by taking a look at this information, tobacco enthusiasts can assure that their pipe lighting is as easy as possible and that their smoking experiences are as pleasant as possible.
Let’s see what makes eight of today’s top pipe lighters so special. Below are seven of the best pipe lighters found anywhere, chosen for their quality of assembly, power, and auxiliary features. A Buyer’s Guide will follow to help you narrow down the best choice for your individual preference. Also, check our guide about tobacco pipes.
Best Pipe Lighters: Comparison Table
[table id=25 /]1. S.T. Dupont Ligne 2 – Best Premium Lighter For Pipe
For world-class, state-of-the-art quality, look no further than S.T. Dupont’s Ligne 2.
Design and Build
Crafted to suit the needs of veteran smokers while also being simple to use for the sake of new tobacco fans, the Ligne 2 is made from the finest materials around. The lighter’s design emphasizes both lightness and ease of transport. Plus, at just over two inches tall, the Ligne 2’s small frame provides users with a surprisingly powerful flame.
Aesthetic Features
As one would expect, the S.T. Dupont Ligne 2 is proudly made in Paris, France. Thus, the best old-world design is seamlessly fused with the wonders of modern technology. Given that S.T. Dupont aims to make internal mechanisms equally as fantastic as appearance characteristics, the Ligne 2’s unparalleled reliability is complemented by a durable body, an engraved logo, and a multilayer protective finish.
Flame Quality
Because the Ligne 8 utilizes a dual-flame lighting style, it consumes a bit more fuel than the other listed lighters. However, it’s also capable of more quickly lighting pipes, and so the feature more than justifies the piece’s fuel consumption.
The Bottom Line
The Ligne 8 looks awesome, feels incredible, and allows pipe smokers to achieve even-burning lights in style. For those who want the best of the best, the Ligne 8 is the way to go. It’s expensive, but it checks all the boxes.
- Dual flames
- Sleek design
- Stellar quality
- The lighter’s quality comes at a price
2. IM Corona – best tobacco pipe lighter
This chrome-plated, adjustable-flame, butane-saving lighter is ideal for those who wish to gain control over—and maximize the value of—their pipe smoking.
Aesthetic Features
The Corona Old Boy looks—and feels—like one of “the classics”—the lighters that smokers previously used to keep their pipes operating smoothly. The parallel-line design, the chrome finish, the flint lighting—all these characteristics are a “throwback” to the old days, but it’s important to understand that the aptly named Old Boy isn’t stuck in the past.
Design and Build
On the contrary, these features are accentuated and improved upon by reliable components and a smart internal setup. In other words, while the Old Boy looks and feels like an “old boy,” its durability and minimal fuel usage are advantages that could only be offered by a lighter made in the modern day. Users will instantly recognize that the Old Boy offers “the best of both worlds.”
Flame Quality
As if this wasn’t enough, the Old Boy model, which is handmade in Japan, limits its butane usage; it’s not hard to refill the lighter, but even for frequent smokers, these instances will be few and far between. While other lighters focus on bigger and hotter, the Old Boy is specifically designed to efficiently offer the ideal light for pipe smokers. Plus, with the piece’s easy-adjust flame, every size and type of pipe can be accounted for.
The Bottom Line
Anyone in the market for a reliable, handmade, and efficient best pipe lighter should consider trying the Old Boy. In a sentence, the unit honors lighters of the past while simultaneously looking forward to what the future will bring.
- Affordable cost
- Solid appearance
- Handmade
- Uses butane
- Flint striking might not please unaccustomed smokers
3. Kiribi Kabuto – best soft flame pipe lighter
As the most affordable lighter featured in this piece, the Kiribi Kabuto Short Lighter could be written off by some pipe smokers. However, doing so would be a mistake to say the least, as Kiribi Kabuto has created a tremendous, easily recommendable lighter here.
Design and Build
Simple in design and appearance, this handmade (in Japan) lighter is comprised of the finest steel, aluminum, and brass. A style that’s made specifically for pipes is complemented by unheralded fuel efficiency; this Kiribi Kabuto model can provide many, many lights on a single fill.
Aesthetic Features
Additionally, the small (just over two inches tall and about one and one-fifth inches wide) is simple to operate and transport. Presentation isn’t overlooked at Kiribi Kabuto, and each of these units ships in a gorgeously designed gift box, which also doubles as a protective case.
Flame Quality
Both in terms of temperature and size, the unit’s flame is ideal for pipes. It’s apparent that Kiribi Kabuto designers crafted this lighter’s blueprints with pipe smokers in mind, and to be sure, their effort paid off.
For affordability and understated functionality, this Kiribi Kabuto lighter is a great choice.
The Bottom Line
Affordable, handmade, and without any real drawbacks, this lighter will please pipe smokers for years to come.
- Low price
- High overall quality
- None to speak of
4. Zippo – Best Pipe Lighter For Outdoors
Zippo has long been a staple for smokers throughout the world. The brand is widely known for producing lots of different colors and designs on the recognizable square-shaped form of its exterior. Even non-smokers have been known to buy them for such things as lighting fireplaces, camping in the woods, and grilling at the park or in a backyard.
What makes Zippos Unique
You’ll find that it enabled you to turn the zippo sideways with a continuous flame, making it easy to use in most pipes.
It also covers a large area (the fire). Just make sure you’re putting enough lighter fluid inside the rayon, which is accessed by taking the exterior body off and opening the fabric lid at the bottom.
Squeeze the lighter fluid a few times until the rayon is covered. But don’t overdo it; adding too much may result in a flame that’s too big. If you’re an outside smoker and live in a region that receives a lot of wind, this might be necessary. Still, Zippos tend to function well under gusty conditions.
Manual in the Purest Sense
It’s truly a “manual” operated lighter. As mentioned, the only way to control the strength of the flame is through the level of lighter fluid added to the bottom. And if you’re more familiar with butane lighters, the closing mechanism for turning and extinguishing the flame might seem a little odd.
This is often left up to personal preference, however. Some users find this to be a signature feature of Zippos. And be sure to stock up on flint when you can. The flint is located at the lower portion of the wheel.
The only way to access it is through the small screw by the rayon. A screwdriver might be needed to open this, but some people can do it with a finger alone. Make sure that you place the spring back as it was when you do a replacement because the flint won’t work if it’s not behind the screw.
Overall, you should consider a Zippo for pipe lighters. As long as you perform upkeep on the device, it could last for a lifetime. And one of the best things is how the cases are interchangeable. If you find a Zippo cover you like more than this type (silver), it’s easy to look for something more appealing. Recommended for both casual and pipe smoking enthusiasts.
- The lighter can be used in a horizontal or vertical position
- Once lit, the flame envelops a wide portion of the lighter itself, where only one inhale is necessary for tobacco to remain burning
- The lighter is wind resistant and stays ignited, even when blown with moderate gusts
- The lid must be closed for the lighter’s flame to extinguish
- Flint wears down quickly when used heavily
- The rayon must constantly be fed lighter fluid for the Zippo to produce a flame
- Difficult to adjust the flame
5. Soft Flame – Best Soft Flame Pipe Lighter
Soft Flame by PROMISE Store was made for those who don’t like to carry around all the tools required to upkeep and clean their pipes or don’t have access to them when needed.
There are three separate utensils: a reamer, tamper and pick. All three of them fold out when pulled and cannot be unfolded separately from the body of the lighter. As for the design, it’s straightforward, having a body built from stainless steel parts that are sold in a neat little box.
Getting the Angle Just Right
This is to make it easier for you to press down on the switch without moving it at awkward angles when you’re about to smoke. The flame is very strong. So strong, you should be advised about its default adjustment being on the highest setting. When you fill it with butane for the very first time, adjust unless you want to be surprised with a large blowtorch-like ignition.
Fuel-Efficient and Long Lasting
As for drawbacks, multiple clicks to ignite might occur, even when the lighted is filled with butane. And, like many butanes, adjusting the flame’s output means purchasing a separate driver. Crosspoint screwdrivers work best, so if you don’t have one laying around in your garage or toolbox, try to acquire one at the same time the lighter is bought.
And you might find that the tools are a little too small for certain types of pipes. For instance, when attempting to use the tamper or scraper, the bottom of the lighter might hit the pipe’s edges, making it harder to clean around its base. Regardless, the Mr. Brog lighter scores high for its fuel longevity, and refills won’t happen as often as its competitors.
- Has additional tools for preparing and cleaning pipes that fold out
- When activated, produces a very strong flame that resembles a blow torch (on the highest setting)
- Can last for up to a week before a butane refill is needed
- Does not always light up due to poor adjustment design, even when filled with butane
- Flame adjustment requires that a cross-point driver be used to move and is made from cheap plastic
- No instruction manual is sold with the product
- The tamper and stylet tools are too short to be used effectively with some pipes
6. Vector Elio Angled Flamу – Best Butane Pipe Lighter
The vector Elio lighter also comes with a nozzle that’s sideways. There are three types in total, one with a grip, polished chrome, and satin chrome. The gripped version is probably the better of the two since it’s easier to keep steady in your hands when the flame is up.
Precision is Key
Like the others (except for the Zippo), there is a tamper inside the lighter that extends out when pulled. It’s the only one available though, so look for more tools if this single utensil alone won’t suffice. Another key feature is the way it burns.
This is especially useful if you like to smoke with small pipes, a good way to have control over small segments of the bowl without all the tobacco going up in flames with one inhalation.
What to Know Before You Decide
Furthermore, don’t let the flame sit for a long period. Anything over 30 seconds might cause the handle to become too hot and/or slowly cause damage to the adjustment screw. And get ready to click more than once for activation, especially after you’ve used it for a while.
Although it’s not something that could happen with every user, multiple presses with a filled lighter is very annoying, especially when you’re smoking time is limited. Anyhow, the Vector Elio remains a great buy for casual and heavy smokers that like their pipes small.
- Has a leather-like grip around the handle that gives the user a better grip during operation
- Has a built-in tamper for packing and/or cleaning
- The flame adjustment wheel quickly opens for fast refills
- Give precise burns that char the tobacco fast with less smoke
- Must be clicked several times for it to work on most occasions
- May malfunction when the flame is lit for more than 30 seconds
7. Flint Stone Lighter – Best Chinese Pipe Lighter
The Tobacco Pipe Flint Stone might sound like a pun but it’s certainly not from the era in which the cartoon is fictionally depicted. The outer design has a great pattern that looks durable and easy to grip. As this is a butane lighter, you’ll have to look for fuel that isn’t liquid. When lit, the flame comes strong, quickly igniting anything in its path. Use caution if it’s your first attempt.
Extra Tool Features
There are a small reamer and tamper featured with this as well. The tamper is used to pack the pipe before smoking.
And adjustments won’t deviate from their original setting, a problem that’s likely to happen with cheaper butane lighters. You can set it and get the same flame height without moving the screw again until refilled. But don’t get too comfortable.
Find yourself a good screw for this, one that’s easy to use on small plastic pieces. If you unscrew too hard, the cog might break free and require a replacement from the manufacturer. And since the lighter is quite small, refueling is likely to happen, particularly with heavy smokers.
But these small hiccups don’t make the Flint Stoneany less of a contender among the other lighters reviewed. It’s made to withstand years of use without losing its ability to produce a strong flame for your pipe. And if it does, just clean it up and it’ll be as good as new.
- The pipe’s tools are well made and will touch hard-to-reach areas of the bowl during cleaning and preparation
- Adjustments do not change when placed at the desired position; flame strength is not altered (so long as butane is added when needed)
- Flame adjustment cannot be done by hand
- During adjustment, the cog may come loose and is difficult or impossible to place back
- Fuel capacity is small, making repeat refills likely to occur, even with moderate to occasional use
8. TISFA Dual Arc Electric Lighter – Best Plasma Electric Lighter (N/A)
TISFA Dual Arc Electric Lighter has several unique features that you’ve probably never seen before. It’s sort of the “e-cigarette” of its class, being entirely dependent on electricity to produce fire.
That means you won’t have to spend any money on butane with this product since it doesn’t operate with gas and liquid-based fuels.
A One-Of-A-Kind “Smart” Lighter
Instead, simply plug it into the USB port on your computer or portable battery. As such, taking the lighter on an airplane is possible.
Just remember that TSA compliance does not always guarantee that you won’t encounter issues, since it’s something that most agents may not come across on the regular. But even if you’re worried, you could always put it in your check-in luggage.
Keeping Things Pragmatic
The manufacturer claims that hundreds of lights are possible with the device. While it can be used multiple times without a charge, pipes tend to require additional time to get everything burning. As a result, you’ll find that the battery will drain out quickly if you’re a heavy smoker. And there’s no way to indicate when the light needs to be charged.
No warning light, no sound, no nothing. So if you’re worried about it cutting off, a second butane lighter might be needed.
You cannot use a wall outlet unless you have an AC adapter with a USB port. But with these small faults, the Zahara Plasma Lighter is great for mobile users, something that will surely come in handy in places where carrying around butane is either inconvenient or impossible.
- The lighter is safe to take on flights; TSA compliant (with check-in or carry-on luggage)
- Butane free; can be changed in a USB slot
- The burn is quick and produces a flame in less than ten seconds
- Two-hour charging time
- There is no way to indicate when the light needs to be charged
- The flame does not last long, especially for users who like to cover a bowl completely
- Multiple recharges are necessary, as the battery tends to deplete very quickly
Pipe Lighters – Buyer’s Guide
Find a Lighter that’s Long Lasting and Easy to Use
Although pipe lighters are small, there are differences in their design. Here’s a quick look at the main distinctions of each product so that you can get a glimpse of something that you favor in one over the others.
If you’re a pipe smoker, you know that preparation and tools are paramount to the level of satisfaction you’ll get with every session.
Pipe lighters are outfitted to make this easier by raising the flame’s strength over that of cheap disposable lighters. But there’s an abundance of pipe lighters available, making selection a bit difficult, especially for first-time smokers.
Best Pipe Lighter Brands
- IM Corona
- Zippo
- S.T. Dupont
Before you settle on one of the lighters reviewed, take a look at more information about butane lighters and helpful tips to aid in your decision below.
Why Should I Get A Pipe Lighter?
Smoking tobacco from a pipe is a hard thing to do with an ordinary disposable lighter or classic torch lighters. Such lighters are difficult to turn sideways without the risk of burning the user’s hand or burning too much of the pipe bowl’s contents. And as their name suggests, must be disposed of over a short period, during which they no longer contain lighter fluid.
Some disposables do contain screws that can be opened for refills, but the cheap construction of the lighters themselves makes them unsuitable for most tobacco enthusiasts unless there’s nothing else available.
Knowing this, having a higher quality lighter will last much longer than their more rudimentary counterparts. And while the name might imply that their use is exclusive to only pipes, they make great lighters for smokers of all kinds, including cigarettes, cigars, and hookahs.
Even if you only smoke seldom, the devices can accompany you to all sorts of outdoor events where a fire is required. They make indispensable items when used in survival kits of all kinds, particularly wick lighters such as the Zippo.
What Are the Differences between Best Pipe Lighters?
Most of the differences lie in the fuel used to ignite the lighter. There are typically two types used on lighters, including butane, a gas that’s highly flammable and sometimes liquified. Although it is stating the obvious, this type of most commonly found in butane lighters.
There are also wick lighters that use Naphtha, a liquid that’s easily ignited and sometimes used to clean rust. Charcoal lighter fluid should never be used with any type of lighter. It will destroy the wick and corrode the interior and shoot sparks from the nozzle when struck with flint.
Furthermore, wick-type lighters do not have a focused flame, so the fire resembles something you’d see in a fuel lantern. Butanes are more direct, sending the heat in small areas of the pipe. If you do not like to inhale too hard when your pipe is being lit, consider a butane lighter over one that uses a wick. Yet if you’re looking for something traditional and that will have multiple uses for things other than smoking, wicks will be your best friend.
FAQ Corona Old Boy Pipe Lighter
What is the best way to light a pipe using a flame lighter?
Lighting a pipe with a flame lighter requires a gentle approach. It’s recommended to use an angled flame, such as the one found in the IM Corona Old Boy pipe lighter, to evenly light the tobacco in the pipe bowl.
What makes the IM Corona Old Boy lighter an excellent choice for pipe smokers?
The IM Corona Old Boy lighter is specifically designed for pipe smoking. It features an angled flame that makes lighting a pipe easy and provides a softer flame that covers a wider surface area, ensuring an even burn.
Are there other lighters besides the IM Corona Old Boy that are suitable for lighting a pipe?
Yes, there are other options available, such as Xikar lighters and soft flame lighters. These lighters also provide a softer flame and are designed to be used with pipes.
Can I use a regular flame lighter, like a Bic lighter, to light my pipe?
While you can technically use a regular flame lighter, like a Bic lighter, to light your pipe, it’s not the ideal choice. Pipe lighters should be butane-based and have an angled flame to ensure an even burn and proper enjoyment of the tobacco.
What is the importance of using a lighter specifically designed for pipe smoking?
Using a lighter specifically designed for pipes ensures that the flame is angled correctly to evenly light the tobacco. It also provides a softer flame that covers a larger area, resulting in a better smoking experience.
What are the two types of lighters commonly used for pipe smoking?
The two types of lighters commonly used for pipe smoking are soft flame lighters and butane lighters. Soft flame lighters, like the IM Corona Old Boy, offer a more gentle and controlled flame, while butane lighters provide a reliable and consistent flame.
How important is the quality of a lighter when it comes to lighting a pipe?
The quality of a lighter is crucial when it comes to lighting a pipe. A reliable and well-constructed lighter ensures that the flame is consistent, easy to control, and provides an even burn. An expensive lighter, such as the IM Corona Old Boy, often offers superior craftsmanship and longevity.
Can windproof lighters be used for lighting a pipe outdoors?
Yes, windproof lighters are suitable for lighting a pipe outdoors. Their design prevents the flame from being easily extinguished by wind, making them a practical choice for pipe smokers who enjoy outdoor smoking.
How should I refill my pipe lighter?
To refill your pipe lighter, it’s best to use the specific butane fuel recommended by the manufacturer. Follow the instructions provided with the lighter to ensure a safe and proper refill process.
What are the best pipe lighters available on the market?
Some of the best pipe lighters available on the market include the IM Corona Old Boy, Xikar lighters, Dunhill lighters, and Zippo pipe lighters. These lighters are specifically designed for pipe smoking and offer excellent flame control and reliability.
How do you properly smoke a pipe using pipe tobacco?
To smoke a pipe, fill the bowl with pipe tobacco, tamp it gently, and light it evenly. Take slow, deliberate puffs, allowing the tobacco to smolder rather than burn. Enjoy the flavorful smoke with relaxed, measured draws.
What should you consider when choosing a lighter for smoking a pipe?
When selecting a lighter for smoking a pipe, it’s important to consider the type of fuel it uses. Ideally, pipe lighters should be butane-based to ensure a clean burn and avoid imparting unwanted flavors to the tobacco.
What are the benefits of using an excellent pipe lighter?
An excellent pipe lighter provides a consistent flame, ease of use, and proper flame control. It ensures an even burn, allowing you to fully enjoy the flavors and aromas of your pipe tobacco.
Can a gas station lighter be used for lighting a pipe?
While a gas station lighter can be used to light a pipe in a pinch, they are not the best option. Gas station lighters may produce a strong, harsh flame that can negatively affect the smoking experience.
Is it necessary to use a specific style of lighter for pipe or cigar smoking?
While there are lighters specifically designed for pipe or cigar smoking, they are not mandatory. However, these specialized lighters often offer features such as angled flames or softer flames, making them more suitable for a controlled and enjoyable smoking experience.
What should every pipe smoker know about lighting a pipe?
Every pipe smoker should know the importance of properly lighting their pipe. It’s crucial to apply an even, 90-degree flame to ensure an even and controlled burn throughout the smoke.
How should you refill your lighter to keep your pipe lit?
To keep your pipe lit, it’s best to refill your lighter with the recommended fuel according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This ensures a steady and reliable flame for continuous enjoyment.
Are there different types of lighters available on the market for pipe smokers?
Yes, there is a wide variety of lighters available on the market for pipe smokers. These include classic pipe lighters, butane lighters with angled flames, and soft flame lighters that offer a gentler approach to lighting your pipe.
What factors contribute to an enjoyable pipe smoking experience?
An enjoyable pipe smoking experience relies on factors such as proper lighting, quality tobacco, a well-maintained pipe, and a comfortable smoking environment. These elements come together to create a delightful moment of relaxation and delight in the art of pipe smoking.
How does the right lighter, producing an adequate flame, contribute to the delight of smoking a pipe?
The right lighter, providing an adequate flame, ensures a consistent burn and allows the tobacco to reach its optimal flavor and aroma. This contributes to the overall pleasure and satisfaction derived from the pipe smoking experience.
Conclusion
So which lighter is the best? That’s not an easy decision to make. Every piece reviewed has its style, advantages, and setbacks. Nevertheless, Zippo and S.T. Dupont are the leading picks on the list (numbers 1 and 2). While both are different in shape and flame adjustment features, the designs make them durable and easy to refuel. But this in no way lessens the others mentioned. As shown in the Buyer’s Guide, different lighters will be acceptable to different smokers. One of them is sure to make the practice more pleasant for you.
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