Stogie Tip: Check Out the New Zippo Blu Cigar Lighter

Even though I completely stand by the post I wrote last May praising wooden matches, I’ll be the first to say that every cigar enthusiast should have at least one good butane lighter. You’ll no doubt agree that certain situations (inclement weather, for example) just call for a burst of clean-burning flame.

With winter in full swing and winds often at gale force, I’ve been using a new Zippo Blu lighter to light my sticks. Chances are you’ve already heard about this unique product via its website, an article in Cigar Aficionado, or elsewhere.

According to a Zippo press release, the U.S.-made lighter uses “patented two-stage burner technology” and features “sleek and contemporary designs, a signature ‘Z’ patterned chimney, large fuel tank, and quick refilling options.”

I’m no sucker for trendy cigar gadgets, but my Blu has really grown on me over the past two months. Perhaps its best feature is the element of surprise. The product instantly becomes the center of attention as fellow smokers – only used to Zippo’s familiar “click and snap” producing a flame worthy of cigarettes – see a sharp, blue torch emerge from the metal plating.

I’ve found that Blu works well in the wind and delivers a fairly consistent flame. Ignition takes some getting used to, though, as you have to hold the flint-wheel down for a second before spinning it. I should also mention that Blu is not ideal for lighting more than one cigar at a time; the flame requires a short recharge break of one minute or so before it will perform again.

Even so, this is a commendable piece of equipment that combines Zippo’s iconic characteristics with a cigar-friendly blaze. I am not bothered by the fact that you can’t adjust the flame (one size seems to fit all), and refills are a snap, especially if you use premium grade Zippo butane fuel.

Blus start at a reasonable $39.95, but you can pay much more depending on the metal design and finish. Each comes equipped with a lifetime guarantee. I would imagine Zippo Blus make wonderful gifts for cigar enthusiasts – even stubborn smokers like me who prefer wooden matches.

-Patrick A

photo credit: Stogie Guys