I'm looking for a compact-ish (zippo size would be about max, peanuts are too small), dependable, refillable lighter that doesn't leak or evaporate fuel (so the classic zipo is out). Fluid is great but butane is fine too. What are you guys using that you like?
Lots of choices, Tru7h: Bic, Peanut XL, Tohil (my personal favorite), Thunderbird insert in a Zippo case (Gilatabar, I had the same problem as you; but, I just ever so slightly bent the bottom of the insert: perfect fit, now).
My fav is still the good old Zippo, I use mine with a Z-Plus torch insert (butane). The Ronson Jetlite might also be a nice and affordable option.
I like the UST floating lighter. Good size, very reliable, available in high or low visibility colors.
Here's a photo of the Peanut XL on the left and the Tohil on the right: Personally of the fluid lighters I like the Tohil.
I've been quite happy with both of my Ronson Jetlites. They're piezoelectric sparked butane torch lighters that are roughly the size of a Zippo Slim. Make sure you use decent butane in them though. They don't work with cheap butane. Ronson brand butane works fine for me.
Just get a bunch of BICs: They are lighter than a zippo, are pretty sturdy and cheap enough not to cry over if you lose one or even both. Some can even be pretty stylish.
Clipper stainless. I've had this 5-6 years. Solid piece of engineering and not that bad a price. Edit. Can't attach photo of my one. Probably due to lack of posts.
The first thing I do with any of the "decorated" Bics is peel off the wraps to get to the white lighter underneath becauses it's so much easier to see the fuel level. ATB, Sam
I bought a zippo insert for my edc zippo. I love it. It is quite strange not refilling my zippo every week to make sure it still works. I am going on 6 months and I haven't had to refill it yet. I just use it for small things like paracord or starting a fire at work. Going to buy a few more to add to my truck and bags.
lighters are dependable till you need them . haha thats always the case in my world. tried so many. i carry a zippo with a zippo fluid canister.. so the fuild doesnt evaporate. but i also have wood matches stored in a matchcap XL.. my fire making bases are covered
Iroda MJ-280. Throws a good flame, works in the wind, can be used upside down. It just works. And it's cheap.
I've had great luck with these refillable butane lighters from DX. The grey/black one is SKU 134890 and the white/clear one is SKU 142647. Lightweight, small, gaskets, refill, and adjustable flame. They also have a small shackle style attachment point. The lighter bodies are translucent, so fuel level is always visible. Can be had for $3.50 shipped. Will pick up multiples to have around. Lost a few and gifted several others. Great lighter for the money IMO. BIC minis are also a good option. Included in the photo for size reference.
As much as I hate it when folks recommend something outside the OP parameters, I'm going to be that guy, because I've joined the throngs who have given up on refillable lighters and gone with a Bic. I've never found a liquid-fueled lighter that won't dry out, and I've never found a butane refillable that works reliably after refilling. A Bic works every time and lasts a very long time for me (I don't smoke). When it dies, I can salvage the striker for outdoor use and replace it dirt cheap.
