Buy a Pipe Lighter
Pipe lighters and a suitable lighter for pipes differ from ordinary lighters primarily in their sideways or angled flame. Our range includes refillable gas lighters with a soft flame, models with flint or piezo ignition, petrol lighters for pipes, as well as simple pipe matches. When choosing a lighter, the key factors are the type of flame, ignition system, tank capacity, additional features such as a tamper or pick, material and ease of use.
Why a Special Pipe Lighter Makes Sense
When smoking a pipe, the flame needs to be directed into the pipe bowl. A sideways or angled soft flame can be moved over the surface of the tobacco in a more controlled manner than the vertical flame of a standard lighter. This makes it easier to light the tobacco evenly and reduces the risk of scorching the upper rim of the pipe bowl. Highly concentrated jet flames, on the other hand, are only suitable to a limited extent because they apply considerably more heat to a specific area.
Gas, Petrol or Matches?
For regular use, gas-powered pipe lighters are the obvious choice: butane burns with comparatively little odour or taste, and many models can be conveniently refilled. Petrol lighters are less susceptible to wind, but can have a greater influence on the taste of the tobacco. Zippo offers special pipe models with a sideways flame. Pipe matches are a simple alternative, provided the match head is allowed to burn off completely first.
Choosing Flint or Piezo Ignition
When it comes to ignition, the main choice is between a flint with a friction wheel and piezo ignition. Classic friction-wheel models have a mechanical design and high-quality lighters are often easy to maintain. Piezo ignition produces a spark at the press of a button and is particularly straightforward to use. If you frequently relight your pipe, you should consider not only the type of ignition but also comfortable operation and a sufficiently large tank.
Pipe Lighters for Different Requirements
For a straightforward everyday lighter, our range includes models from SideKick, Imco, Jean Claude and Passatore. In the mid-range, you will find lighters from Pearl or Rattray's, with a greater focus on workmanship, feel and design. The Old Boy models from IM Corona are classics designed for long-term use; particularly elaborate designs are also available from Sillem's.
Tampers, Picks and Spare Parts
Many pipe lighters combine several tools in a single housing. An integrated tamper is practical if you do not want to carry separate pipe tools when you are out and about; some models also feature a pick or spike. For lighters intended for long-term use, the availability of flints, wicks, gas and spare parts is another important purchasing consideration. Particularly with classic designs, ease of maintenance can significantly extend their service life.
Choosing the Right Material and Finish
Metal is the most common material used for pipe lighters, although there are also versions with lacquer, enamel, wood or leather details, as well as simple plastic models. Chrome, black, silver, gunmetal or coloured finishes primarily affect the appearance and feel. For everyday use, weight, grip and an easily accessible ignition mechanism are generally more important than decorative details.
Which Pipe Lighter Is Right for You?
If you mainly smoke at home, a refillable gas lighter with a sideways soft flame is a practical solution for most applications. For frequent smoking, a well-maintainable model with a flint and readily available spare parts is worthwhile; if you prefer straightforward operation, you can opt for piezo ignition. For outdoor use, a dedicated petrol pipe lighter can be an interesting option. We explain further technical differences in our guide to pipe lighters.
