Windmill Lighters?

Jedi Knife

Jedi Knife

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May 6, 1999
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What is the general consensus here about Windmill lighters? I noticed them in the 1SKS store and they intrigued me. I don't smoke, but I do realize the need to have a heat/fire source handy. I am not interested in any other particular brands, makes, including the disposable Bics, and I've read all the earlier threads regarding lighters, but I could not gather any definitive answers on whether or not these lighters were good, (i.e. reliable, rugged). Any experiences with these?

Thanks,

JK
 
I've got a Windmill, black rubberized version. I'm not a smoker either, and this lighter is really more geared toward smokers it seems. The cap gets in the way when trying to light a fire or light a candle. I think I would rather have gotten the Blazer MicroTorch instead, since that one looks more useful for lighting fires, brazing, etc.
 
I have a couple Delta Windmills. I like them.

If you compare the core lighter mechanism, it is identical to the Brunton Helios.

I have the Brunton also, but prefer the Delta because of the rubberized housing.

Yes, in some situations the lid gets in the way, and the lighter mechanism gets hot when ON for a long time, but I have not had any other problems. It has always lit.

Mike
 
There are a few threads in this forum that discuss the "best lighter", you may want to do a quick search- there is plenty of dissent regarding butane lighters.

I have two Windmill Delta's, one about a year old and the other about two years old, and both continue to work well. They are sensitive to gas flow and need to be carefully adjusted, but once set they've been reliable for me. They don't light as reliably if they are low on fuel, but once refilled they've always lit consistently with one or two strokes.

The lid can be obtrusive, but they seem to be pretty tough, and they stay lit in conditions that will drown or blow out a zippo or disposable.
 
After re-reading your post, I noticed you indicated you've read the previous threads on the subject, so you know not everybody has had good luck with the Windmills.

Based on the two I have, I would recommend them without reservation - they are much more durable than a disposable, and will light reliably after sitting unused for long periods, unlike a Zippo.

Plus, they have a definite gadget factor, with a glowing piezoceramic igniter and nearly invisible flame.
 
Thanks for the replies. Well, so far it seems that most people responding seem to like the Windmills. Now, for the sake of comparison, could anyone point me to an online USA dealer with a website who sells the Blazer MicroTorch?

JK
 
I like them a lot. The do use fuel pretty fast, so plan ahead. I recommend them

Doug
 
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