Does anyone make a decent $20 cigar lighter?

Monday, November 29 1999

Q. Maybe I'm asking to much, but is there a $20 butane lighter that will last longer than 6 months?
- James in Pennsylvania

A. There are several I can recommend, but it pays to invest in a better lighter. For example the XiKAR lighters (of which I own two), are good. They have some Executive single flame torch lighters for $19.99, but in terms of reliabiltiy, I would lean more toward the $39 and up models.

Vector makes a very reliable product. You can pick up a Tizio triple flame model for $19.99.

Finally, I also like the Blazer cigar lighters, which may arguably be the most dependable for the money. You can pick up one of their Venture dual-flame torch models (shown) for under $20, too.