Re: Beginner Questions (Ask Them Here!)
I need help using and maintaining my torch lighters.
My luck with butane torch lighters is so bad that at this point it can't be bad luck, I must be doing something wrong. I've now purchased two expensive, dual-torch lighters (I'm not sure of the brand of my first, got it at a B&M years ago) and a Xikar Element.
The old one takes a dozen attempts to get a flame, which then goes out instantly. A few more dozen attempts and I either get a flame that lasts long enough to light a cigar, or I give up and use a cheap disposable.
The Xikar Element never lights on the first try (but always on the second try). After trying suggestions I read on here and adjusting the flame level, I made it worse. Now it takes several attempts to get it lit. I'm on my first "fill up" of the Xikar and I haven't even used it to light a cigar yet.
What I'm doing with the old one:
When fuel is low, I empty it completely by taking something small & pointy and pressing it to the refill nozzle thingy. I make sure it empties completely. I turn the lighter upside down, insert the butane refill, press and hold for a few seconds until the fuel indicator window looks filled. I have the flame adjustment knob set usually between 60-90% of maximum flame height.
The result is a hard time lighting them, and sputtering flames that look like there is too much air mixed in with the fuel. Oh, and I don't know what people are talking about when they use these things in the wind. A gentle breeze blows them out. Sometimes the old one goes out because it's too close to my face and my exhaling puts it out.
What am I doing wrong!?
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