especially as a non-smoker. I do own this one (Honest brand) from DX... it doesn't hold much gas but as a non-smoker it is absolutely sufficient. I like that it is very slim and because of that matte almost rubber like coating.. it doesn't dangle around in pockets. I own it for 2 years now and refilled about 6 times. I also own a classic brass zippo with gas insert, but it stays home most of the time due to its bulkiness.
They are high polish chrome and brass. The Armor models are 50% thicker which gives them a much more substantial feel over the standard models. The only disappointment is they didn't improve on the hinge. It's the weak spot on all Zippos. They do come with a lifetime warranty. If you're interested, I got mine from this ebay seller.
I like Zippos and the like but it seems oil lighters are always dry when you need them most.
Jet lighters are best for wind, emergency soldering/brazing, and the next best thing to a knife. Jet lighters will cut through a seatbelt like butter or cut packing tape on a box in a pinch. Look for the brand "Honest" if you want a quality but inexpensive jet lighter.
The nicest and most reliable EDC lighter for me though are a series of lighters from Yibao. Built like tanks and extremely elegant at the same time. It's also fun to hand one to someone and watch the stupid look on their face as they try to figure out how to light it. They also come in beautiful boxes for gift giving or storage.
I've never smoked but I usually carry a lighter with me. I started out with Zippos and got tired of them leaking in my pocket. I switched over to a tri-flame Colbri and never looked back... All of their triple-jet models are awesome!
Just click the pics. Each pic I posted is linked to its DX page where I bought them. They are around $5-$6 each. You really have to get at least one to try and you will be sold. They light every time and a little steam punkish too.
I don't like the flavour a butane lighter will leave on the first drag.
For non-smoking purposes, I'd always opt for disposable BIC-style butane lighters, though. Most models available in Europa have stricter safety features these days. Not as easy to accidentally light one up as it used to be.
Ever had a chemical burn at your groin from Zippo fuel leaking through your pocket? Holy hell! Talk about pain! I had to stop the car in the middle of the street, jump out, and drop trousers to see what the hell was eating my inside thigh. Mutha F’er, that hurt!!
Not sure what the heck that has to do with the smell of Zippo fuel but mentioning the fuel brought back a painful memory I thought I'd share.
I also have a Yibao Tri-S (Shiny Silver Stylish). It's much smaller than I thought it would be. And I had a hell of a time trying to figure out how to light it! In fact, out of my entire lighter collection, this is the only one I couldn't figure out.