The Zippo Lighter As A Well-Loved Brand

The zippo lighter was first produced in 1933 by the Bradford, Pennsylvania based Zippo Manufacturing Company. The lighter received its first patent in 1936. Amazingly, even this many years later, this stylish item remains a favorite among smokers throughout the world. Through the years, the style of the lighter has changed dramatically, but this has never affected its popularity.

Lighters containing inner cases that could be refilled with lighter fluid first came into vogue in America during the World War II years. At first, these items were formed from brass, but this later changed to steel. The zippo lighter changed styles right along with the rest of the industry, but certain of its characteristics remain the same. One of these would be its claim to being able to withstand strong winds and still remain lit until the lid is closed. The lighter also carries a superb lifetime warranty.


Every lighter filled with lighter fluid is surrounded with debate by cigar smokers, and this is certainly true with the zippo. Smokers contest that lighter fluid ruins the flavor and scent of their pricey cigars and also leaves an oily feeling behind. Some kinds of lighter fluid are now being produced that apparently leave behind none of these bad tastes. These could perhaps solve the problem for cigar smokers. Butane is also beginning to be used in some styles of lighters but so far the zippo brand has not begun to produce these. Therefore, many aficionados of cigars prefer the simple match for lighting.





Pipe smokers do not typically have this particular problem with the zippo. This brand produces special lighters that have been proven to never damage a pipe. The high quality of these is similar to the previously described design, but the style is slightly different. These are made with metal built around the area of the flame permitting the lighter to be placed inside the pipe. A bonus is that the same insert can be used in the traditional type of lighter as well as the specialty one for pipes.

A seemingly endless array of designs is offered by this brand. A variety of patterns can be purchased or specific words or pictures can be placed on the case. This is perfect for someone purchasing this lighter as a gift or for a company that wishes to place their logo or contact information on a special commemorative case. Because these cases are so durable, many survive the decades and become precious heirlooms.


Hundreds of thousands of zippo lighters have been purchased through the years. This proves that it is a trustworthy and well-loved design that will certainly please any tobacco user. These lighters are sure to continue their lengthy history of use in the years ahead.