Got this lighter about two years ago, and I came back for another. While it doesn't have the style of a Zippo, it is much more dependable, consistent, and trouble-free. It's versatility comes from the jet flame that lets you light in any position - great for candles in holders that a BIC cant get at, or lighting a grill through the match port. Its combustion chamber and catalyst coil produce a concentrated flame that is much hotter than other jet lighters, and it can start up a fire in damp kindling very quickly, even in the rain. Wind doesn't affect it whatsoever, it had no problem lighting fireworks on the beach at night with 40 mph winds. The butane tank holds enough for about 20 minutes of medium height burn (adjustable), which is plenty for a week of hiking, and the window lets you see how much you have left.
But the real difference that separates this rest is durability. It has two latching mechanisms to keep the top shut - they may look goofy but they work. When the top is closed it is next to indestructible, I've dropped in a lake, had a coal melt through part of the rubber, kicked it across a parking lot, even ran it over with a truck (all by accident), and it still works fine. Simply put, if there is gas in the tank, it will light up on the first try, period. When functionality and dependability are more important than style and aesthetics, this lighter is the best choice.
