A windproof lighter is a simple machine, which is exactly why it can outlast you if you look after it. The catch is that "refillable" only helps if the parts that wear are replaceable too. Here is what to check before you buy one, and how to keep it running.
Fuel and flame
These are kerosene (naphtha) lighters, not butane jets. Standard lighter fluid is widely available and cheap, and a full fill gives days of ordinary use. The flame is soft and steady rather than a blue torch, which is what makes it usable for a candle, a campfire or a pipe without scorching. Fuel evaporates slowly even when unused, so a quick top-up after a few weeks of sitting in a drawer is normal.
What actually makes it windproof
The perforated chimney around the wick shields the flame and keeps a pocket of hot vapour around it, so a gust bends the flame rather than extinguishing it. It is not magic in a storm, but it handles a breezy street or a campsite far better than an open-flame disposable. Check that the chimney is properly seated and its vents are clear of lint.
Parts that wear
Three consumables: fluid, flint and wick. A flint lasts hundreds of strikes and drops in from the bottom screw; a wick is trimmed or replaced when it chars down. Both are inexpensive and take a minute. Metal bodies with engraved detail need no special treatment beyond a dry wipe — never use abrasive polish on a recessed design.
Travel and everyday carry
Always travel with a lighter that is empty of fuel; airlines vary on whether an empty lighter is permitted at all, so check your carrier before packing. At home, keep it away from prolonged heat and direct sun. If you want artwork on the body, our guide to engraved versus printed finishes explains which option survives this kind of daily handling.
Common questions
What fuel should I use?
Standard lighter fluid (naphtha), available at most convenience and tobacco shops. Do not use butane or petrol.
How often do I replace the flint and wick?
A flint typically lasts several hundred strikes. Trim the wick when it blackens; replace it when it becomes too short to hold a flame.
Can I take it on a plane?
Rules differ by airline and country, and most require the lighter to be completely empty. Check before you fly and never pack a fueled lighter.
Does engraving affect the mechanism?
No. Engraving is on the outer shell only; the fuel chamber, chimney and ignition are untouched.