Zippo Lighter Review: Is It Worth It?

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the world of Zippo lighters. These iconic windproof lighters have been around for almost a century, and you've probably seen them in movies, heard about them from your grandpa, or maybe even own one yourself. But are Zippo lighters really worth the hype in today's world of disposable butane lighters and electric arcs? Let's find out!

What is a Zippo Lighter?

So, what exactly is a Zippo lighter? Simply put, it's a reusable metal lighter manufactured by Zippo Manufacturing Company of Bradford, Pennsylvania. The first Zippo was created in 1932, inspired by an Austrian windproof lighter. What sets Zippo apart is its rugged construction, windproof design, and, most importantly, its lifetime guarantee. That's right, if your Zippo ever fails to work, the company will repair it for free, no matter how old it is! This commitment to quality and durability has made Zippo a cultural icon and a favorite among smokers, collectors, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

The classic Zippo design consists of two main parts: the case and the insert. The case is typically made of brass, though other materials like stainless steel and sterling silver are also used. It features a hinged lid and a distinctive rectangular shape. The insert is the working part of the lighter, containing the wick, flint, and packing material that absorbs the lighter fluid. To use a Zippo, you simply flip the lid, strike the flint wheel, and a flame appears, shielded from the wind by the chimney-like design of the case. Refueling is easy: just lift the insert out of the case and saturate the packing material with Zippo lighter fluid. Replacing the flint and wick is also a straightforward process, ensuring that your Zippo can last for decades with proper care. Zippo lighters aren't just functional tools; they're also collectible items. The company has produced countless designs over the years, featuring everything from military insignias and company logos to intricate artwork and commemorative editions. Some rare Zippos can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars in the collector's market, making them a potentially valuable investment. Whether you're a smoker looking for a reliable lighter, an outdoor adventurer in need of a windproof flame, or a collector seeking a piece of American history, the Zippo lighter has something to offer.

Key Features and Benefits of Zippo Lighters

Zippo lighters come with a bunch of features that set them apart. Let's break down the most important ones:

• Windproof Design: This is probably the most famous feature. The chimney design surrounding the wick does a great job of blocking the wind, so you can light up even in breezy conditions. This makes it super useful for camping, hiking, or just hanging out outside.
• Durability: Zippos are built tough. The metal case can take a beating, and the internal components are also designed to last. Plus, with the lifetime guarantee, you know Zippo stands behind its product. The robust construction of a Zippo lighter ensures it can withstand daily wear and tear, accidental drops, and exposure to various weather conditions. The solid brass case, for example, is resistant to corrosion and can maintain its integrity even after years of use. The hinged lid is designed to withstand repeated opening and closing without becoming loose or damaged. Inside the case, the insert is equally durable, with a sturdy flint wheel and a well-protected wick. The packing material, typically cotton or rayon, is designed to absorb and retain lighter fluid effectively, ensuring a consistent flame. Even the smallest components, such as the flint spring and the rivet that holds the lid in place, are made from high-quality materials to prevent breakage or failure. Beyond the physical durability, Zippo lighters also offer a degree of resilience in challenging environments. The windproof design, as mentioned earlier, allows the lighter to function reliably in windy conditions where other lighters might fail. The ability to easily refuel and replace worn parts ensures that the Zippo can be kept in good working order for extended periods. Whether you're a smoker who needs a reliable lighter for daily use, an outdoor enthusiast who requires a windproof flame for camping or hiking, or a collector who appreciates the enduring quality of a well-made product, the durability of a Zippo lighter is a key factor in its appeal.
• Refillable: Unlike disposable lighters, you can refill your Zippo with lighter fluid. This not only saves you money in the long run but also reduces waste. The use of refillable lighter fluid in Zippo lighters offers several environmental and economic advantages over disposable lighters. Disposable lighters, typically made of plastic and containing butane fuel, contribute significantly to plastic waste and greenhouse gas emissions when discarded. Zippo lighters, on the other hand, are designed to be reused for many years, reducing the need for frequent replacements. The refillable nature of Zippo lighters also allows users to choose their preferred type of lighter fluid. While Zippo recommends using its own brand of lighter fluid for optimal performance, other brands of naphtha-based lighter fluid can also be used. This flexibility can be advantageous for users who have specific preferences or who may have difficulty finding Zippo-branded fluid. Furthermore, the ability to refill the lighter allows users to avoid the frustration of running out of fuel unexpectedly, as is often the case with disposable lighters. Refilling a Zippo lighter is a straightforward process that can be done quickly and easily with a few simple steps. The user simply lifts the insert out of the case, saturates the packing material with lighter fluid, and reinserts the insert into the case. The process is relatively clean and mess-free, and the lighter is ready to use immediately after refilling. Overall, the refillable nature of Zippo lighters is a key factor in their sustainability and long-term cost-effectiveness.
• Lifetime Guarantee: This is a huge selling point. If your Zippo breaks, no matter how old it is or how the damage happened, Zippo will fix it for free. That's some serious peace of mind! The lifetime guarantee offered by Zippo is a testament to the company's confidence in the quality and durability of its products. Unlike many other consumer goods that come with limited warranties or guarantees, the Zippo lifetime guarantee covers the repair of any Zippo lighter, regardless of its age or the cause of the damage. This means that if your Zippo lighter ever fails to function properly, whether due to a manufacturing defect, accidental damage, or normal wear and tear, you can send it back to Zippo for repair free of charge. The company will either repair the lighter to its original working condition or replace it with a comparable model if repair is not possible. The lifetime guarantee not only provides peace of mind for Zippo owners but also reflects the company's commitment to customer satisfaction. Zippo believes in building long-term relationships with its customers and stands behind its products with unwavering support. The guarantee is also a powerful marketing tool, as it differentiates Zippo lighters from other lighters on the market that offer limited or no warranty coverage. To take advantage of the lifetime guarantee, Zippo owners simply need to send their lighter to the Zippo Repair Clinic, along with a brief description of the problem. The company's skilled technicians will assess the damage and perform the necessary repairs. The repaired lighter is then returned to the owner, typically within a few weeks. The lifetime guarantee is a valuable asset for Zippo owners, as it ensures that their lighters will remain in good working order for many years to come. It also reflects the company's dedication to quality, durability, and customer satisfaction.
• Collectible: Zippos come in a crazy number of designs, making them popular with collectors. Some vintage or limited-edition Zippos can be worth a lot of money. The collectibility of Zippo lighters is a significant aspect of their appeal, attracting enthusiasts and hobbyists from around the world. Zippo has produced countless designs over the years, featuring a wide range of themes, styles, and materials. This vast variety makes Zippo lighters highly sought after by collectors who specialize in different categories, such as military Zippos, advertising Zippos, commemorative Zippos, and vintage Zippos. The value of a collectible Zippo lighter can vary greatly depending on its rarity, condition, and historical significance. Some rare Zippos, such as those produced during World War II or those featuring unique artwork or engravings, can fetch thousands of dollars in the collector's market. The condition of a Zippo lighter is also a major factor in its value. Lighters that are in mint or near-mint condition, with their original packaging and paperwork, are typically worth more than those that have been heavily used or damaged. The historical significance of a Zippo lighter can also contribute to its value. For example, Zippos that were carried by soldiers during wartime or those that were used in significant historical events are often highly prized by collectors. In addition to individual Zippo lighters, entire collections can also be quite valuable. Some collectors focus on assembling complete sets of Zippos from a particular series or era, while others collect Zippos that share a common theme or design element. The Zippo Collectors Club is a global organization that brings together Zippo enthusiasts from around the world. The club provides a forum for collectors to share information, buy and sell Zippos, and learn more about the history and collectibility of Zippo lighters. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, the world of Zippo collecting offers a fascinating and rewarding hobby. The vast variety of designs, the potential for investment, and the sense of community among collectors make Zippo lighters a truly unique and enduring collectible item.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Zippo

Okay, so Zippos are cool, but they're not perfect. Here's a quick rundown of the good and the bad:

Pros:

• Reliable: They work in almost any weather condition.
• Durable: Built to last a lifetime.
• Repairable: The lifetime guarantee is a huge plus.
• Collectible: Lots of cool designs to choose from.
• Reusable: Refilling is better for the environment than disposable lighters.

Cons:

• Lighter Fluid Smell: Some people don't like the smell of Zippo fluid.
• Fluid Evaporation: The fluid can evaporate even when you're not using it, so you have to refill it regularly. One of the most common complaints about Zippo lighters is the tendency for the lighter fluid to evaporate, even when the lighter is not in use. This means that you may need to refill your Zippo lighter more frequently than you would with other types of lighters, such as butane lighters, which are less prone to evaporation. The rate of evaporation can vary depending on several factors, including the ambient temperature, the humidity, and the type of lighter fluid used. In general, warmer temperatures and lower humidity levels can accelerate the evaporation process. To minimize evaporation, it is recommended to store your Zippo lighter in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. You can also try using a high-quality lighter fluid that is specifically designed to reduce evaporation. Some users also recommend wrapping a rubber band around the lid of the Zippo lighter to create a tighter seal and further reduce evaporation. Despite the issue of fluid evaporation, many Zippo owners find that the reliability and durability of the lighter outweigh this drawback. The ability to refill the lighter with fluid as needed ensures that it is always ready to use, even if it has been sitting idle for a while. Furthermore, the unique features and benefits of Zippo lighters, such as their windproof design and lifetime guarantee, make them a popular choice among smokers, outdoor enthusiasts, and collectors.
• Maintenance: You need to replace the flint and wick occasionally.

Alternatives to Zippo Lighters

If you're not totally sold on Zippos, here are a few other options to consider:

• Butane Lighters: These are more common and don't have the fluid evaporation issue. However, they're not as windproof and often feel less durable. Butane lighters offer several advantages over traditional Zippo lighters, including cleaner burning, adjustable flame height, and reduced maintenance. Unlike Zippo lighters, which use naphtha-based lighter fluid, butane lighters use butane gas as fuel. Butane burns more cleanly than naphtha, producing less soot and odor. This can be particularly appealing to smokers who prefer a cleaner taste and smell. One of the main benefits of butane lighters is the adjustable flame height. Many butane lighters come with a dial or lever that allows you to control the size of the flame, making it suitable for various tasks. This is especially useful for lighting cigars, pipes, or even candles with precision. Butane lighters also require less maintenance than Zippo lighters. There is no need to replace the wick or flint, as the butane gas is ignited by a spark or electronic ignition system. This can save you time and money in the long run. However, butane lighters also have some drawbacks compared to Zippo lighters. They are generally not as windproof as Zippo lighters, as the flame can be easily blown out by a strong gust of wind. They may also not be as durable as Zippo lighters, as the plastic components can be more prone to damage. Despite these drawbacks, butane lighters are a popular choice for many smokers and outdoor enthusiasts due to their clean burning, adjustable flame, and reduced maintenance. They offer a convenient and reliable alternative to traditional Zippo lighters.
• Electric Lighters: These are windproof and don't require fuel, but they need to be charged. Electric lighters, also known as arc lighters or plasma lighters, have emerged as a modern alternative to traditional flame-based lighters. These lighters use an electric current to create a small arc of plasma, which is then used to ignite combustible materials. Electric lighters offer several advantages over traditional lighters, including windproof operation, fuel-free design, and increased safety. One of the main benefits of electric lighters is their ability to function in windy conditions. The electric arc is not easily extinguished by wind, making them ideal for outdoor use. This is a significant advantage over traditional flame-based lighters, which can be difficult to light in windy environments. Electric lighters are also fuel-free, eliminating the need for lighter fluid or butane gas. This not only saves you money but also reduces the risk of spills and leaks. The lighters are powered by a rechargeable battery, which can be easily charged via USB. Electric lighters are generally considered to be safer than traditional lighters. There is no open flame, reducing the risk of accidental burns. The lighters also typically have a safety mechanism that prevents them from being accidentally activated. However, electric lighters also have some drawbacks compared to traditional lighters. They may not be as effective at lighting certain materials, such as thick cigars or damp tinder. The battery life can also be limited, requiring frequent charging. Despite these drawbacks, electric lighters are becoming increasingly popular due to their windproof operation, fuel-free design, and increased safety. They offer a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional flame-based lighters.
• Torch Lighters: These produce a very hot, focused flame, great for lighting cigars. Torch lighters are a type of lighter that produces a high-intensity, focused flame, often used for lighting cigars, pipes, and other combustible materials. These lighters use butane gas as fuel and feature a specialized burner nozzle that creates a concentrated stream of flame. Torch lighters offer several advantages over traditional lighters, including higher heat output, wind resistance, and precise flame control. One of the main benefits of torch lighters is their higher heat output. The focused flame can quickly and efficiently ignite materials, making them ideal for lighting cigars and pipes. The intense heat can also be useful for other tasks, such as soldering or brazing small items. Torch lighters are also generally more wind-resistant than traditional lighters. The concentrated flame is less likely to be blown out by wind, making them suitable for outdoor use. Many torch lighters come with an adjustable flame control, allowing you to customize the size and intensity of the flame to suit your needs. This can be particularly useful for lighting different types of cigars or pipes. Torch lighters also have some drawbacks compared to traditional lighters. They can consume butane gas more quickly, requiring more frequent refills. The high-intensity flame can also be dangerous if not used carefully. It is important to keep the flame away from flammable materials and to avoid prolonged exposure to skin. Despite these drawbacks, torch lighters are a popular choice for cigar and pipe smokers due to their high heat output, wind resistance, and precise flame control. They offer a convenient and efficient way to light combustible materials.

Final Verdict: Is a Zippo Worth It?

So, are Zippo lighters worth it? Honestly, it depends on what you're looking for. If you want a super reliable, durable, and iconic lighter that you can pass down to your kids, then a Zippo is a great choice. The lifetime guarantee is hard to beat, and the cool designs make them fun to collect. However, if you're bothered by the lighter fluid smell or the need to refill it often, you might be happier with a butane or electric lighter. Ultimately, it's a matter of personal preference. But one thing's for sure: Zippo lighters have earned their place in history, and they're still a solid option for anyone who needs a reliable flame.