Lighters

Lighters in this category are BIC flint models with Doodle print, prepared in collaboration with the brands Purize and BIC. They come in two formats: classic and compact MiniBic. Below we describe how they differ, how a flint lighter works, how it differs from a jet mechanism model, and what to pay attention to when choosing and storing.

Purize and BIC: two formats

The BIC Purize lighter has the classic BIC format, convenient for everyday use. The Purize MiniBic is a compact version that fits in a small pocket, fanny pack, or backpack. Both models have the same Doodle print and a steel burner cover.

For the MiniBic, the stated efficiency is up to 1450 ignitions. Both models belong to the collectible Doodle series, and the body in both cases is made of plastic.

How a flint lighter works

In a flint lighter, you rotate the ignition wheel, which creates a spark and ignites the gas flowing from the burner. The steel cover around the burner limits the influence of wind and protects it from overheating. The flame is constant: the manufacturer designs BIC models without height adjustment.

The plastic body is lightweight and resistant to mechanical damage, but it does not like falls and sudden impacts. Clean the print with a soft cloth and do not expose it to contact with water and chemicals, as they may damage it. Occasionally clean the burner cover from dirt.

Flint or jet mechanism

The second type is a torch lighter with a jet mechanism. Instead of a soft, yellow flame, it produces a narrow, focused stream of blue color, pushed under pressure through a nozzle. It does not extinguish in the wind and works at any angle, but it is hotter, so it requires more caution around plastics and hair.

You can find the Prof torch lighter with a motif of Mexican skulls, measuring about 6.5 by 4 by 1.5 cm, with a flame height regulator and a filling valve at the bottom of the body, in the Accessories category. Its nozzle remains hot for a while after extinguishing.

How to choose a lighter

Start with where the lighter will be used and how you carry it. Before purchasing, check a few things:

• format: classic BIC or compact MiniBic for a small pocket
• type of ignition: flint wheel or jet flame nozzle
• burner cover that limits the influence of wind
• flame adjustment and filling valve, if you need them

Outside and in the wind, a steel cover or jet mechanism works well. If you want to adjust the flame height, choose a model with a regulator, as in BIC lighters the flame is constant.

Lighters: safety, cold, and storage

The lighter contains flammable gas under pressure. Do not store it near heat sources, in the sun, near a radiator, or in a heated car, and keep it away from children. Do not use a damaged lighter or one that is leaking gas.

After use, ensure that the lighter is extinguished and cooled before storing it. Do not use it near flammable materials and do not attempt to modify it. Store it in a dry and cool place.

The gas in a pocket lighter evaporates less effectively in frost and at high altitudes, so ignition may be less reliable then. If a spark appears but the flame does not, it may also be due to running out of gas or wind.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between BIC Purize and Purize MiniBic?

By format. BIC Purize has the classic BIC size, while MiniBic is a compact version for a small pocket. Both models have Doodle print, a steel burner cover, and flint ignition with a wheel. For the MiniBic, the stated efficiency is up to 1450 ignitions, and the body in both models is made of plastic.

Can the flame be adjusted on a BIC lighter?

No. The manufacturer designs BIC lighters with a constant flame, without a regulator. If you need adjustment, choose a model with a flame height regulator, like the Prof torch lighter. The Prof also has a filling valve at the bottom of the body, and its dimensions are about 6.5 by 4 by 1.5 cm.

Why does the lighter spark but not ignite?

The most common causes are running out of gas, very low temperature of the lighter, or wind extinguishing the flame at ignition. In the wind, a steel burner cover or jet flame helps. In frost and at high altitudes, gas evaporates less effectively, which is why ignition may be less reliable then.

What is a jet flame?

It is a narrow, focused stream of blue color, pushed under pressure through a nozzle. It does not extinguish in the wind and works at any angle, but it is hotter than the flame in the flint model. It requires more caution around plastics and hair, and the nozzle remains hot for a while after extinguishing.

How to store a lighter in summer?

Away from the sun and heat sources. Do not leave it in a heated car, as the gas in the tank is under pressure and flammable. The best place is a dry, cool spot out of reach of children. Do not use a damaged unit or one that is leaking gas.