The **Zippo Armor High Polish Lighter w/ Click**: First Use to Final Thoughts
As a seasoned gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I approach each product review with a critical eye and a commitment to authenticity. The Zippo Armor High Polish Lighter w/ Click caught my attention for its promise of enhanced durability and the iconic Zippo “click.” My initial need for a more robust personal ignition tool arose from a series of frustrating experiences with flimsier lighters that failed in less-than-ideal conditions. I was tired of unreliable flames when I needed them most, whether for a quick task in the workshop or during an unexpected power outage.
Upon first unboxing, the weight and substantial feel of this Zippo model were immediately apparent. The polished finish gleamed, giving it a premium look that suggested more than just a utilitarian purpose. Compared to standard lighters I’ve used, this one felt like it was built to endure, a welcome departure from the disposable nature of many alternatives. My initial impression was one of solid craftsmanship and a reassuring sense of permanence.
My early consideration also briefly touched upon other reputable butane lighters, but their sealed nature and often complex fueling mechanisms didn’t appeal to my preference for simpler, more accessible maintenance. The Zippo’s refillable design and classic mechanism offered a familiar, reliable path forward. My immediate reaction was a pragmatic satisfaction, a feeling that this might indeed be the robust solution I had been searching for.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Zippo Armor High Polish Lighter w/ Click** to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Zippo Armor High Polish Lighter w/ Click began in my home workshop, a place where dust, grease, and the occasional drop are commonplace. Lighting a stubborn pilot light on a furnace or needing a quick flame to check a solder point are frequent occurrences. The distinctive click of the lid opening and the subsequent ignition were satisfyingly crisp, far more pronounced than with my previous lighters.
The windproof design was put to the test on a breezy evening, and I was impressed. While no lighter is truly invincible in a gale, this Zippo held its flame admirably, allowing me to light a small campfire without significant difficulty. Refilling it for the first time was straightforward; the familiar process of adding Zippo premium lighter fluid and replacing the wick and flint was intuitive, even after some time away from these types of lighters.
There were no significant issues on first use, but I did notice that the polished finish, while attractive, showed fingerprints quite readily. This is a minor aesthetic point, but one worth noting for those who value a pristine look.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several weeks of consistent use – lighting candles, starting campfires, occasional workshop tasks, and even as a backup emergency light source during a brief power outage – the Zippo Armor High Polish Lighter w/ Click has proven its worth. The all-metal construction, notably the 1.5 times thicker case than standard models, has resisted the minor scuffs and knocks that inevitably happen. I’ve accidentally dropped it a couple of times from workbench height onto concrete, and it emerged without a scratch or performance degradation.
Maintenance has been minimal, primarily involving refilling the fuel and occasionally replacing the flint. The lifetime guarantee is a significant selling point, providing peace of mind that this is an investment rather than a disposable item. Compared to the budget lighters that often fail after a few months, this Zippo’s durability is a stark contrast, justifying its higher initial cost. I haven’t encountered any stiffness in the hinge or lid mechanism, which has been a common failure point in other lighters I’ve used over the years.
Breaking Down the Features of **Zippo Armor High Polish Lighter w/ Click**
Specifications
The Zippo Armor High Polish Lighter w/ Click boasts a robust construction, featuring an all-metal construction that is notably thicker than a standard Zippo case. This thicker shell provides a significant increase in perceived durability and heft. The lighter is designed to be windproof, a crucial feature for outdoor use, and includes the signature Zippo “click” sound upon opening.
It is refillable for a lifetime of use, a testament to its sustainable design philosophy. For optimal performance, the manufacturer recommends using genuine Zippo premium lighter fluid, flints, and wicks, which are sold separately. The fuel capacity is approximately 10 ml, providing a decent number of lights between refills, though this can vary based on usage and conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Zippo Armor High Polish Lighter w/ Click – reliably producing a flame – is executed with impressive consistency. The windproof design is genuinely effective; I’ve managed to light cigars and campfires in breezy conditions where other lighters would have faltered. The flame produced is a steady, recognizable Zippo flame, neither too weak nor excessively large.
Its greatest strength lies in its sheer reliability and the satisfying tactile and auditory feedback it provides. The distinctive Zippo “click” is more than just a sound; it’s an assurance of its robust mechanism at work. A minor area for potential improvement, though subjective, is the learning curve for optimal fueling. Overfilling can lead to a slight fuel smell, but this is easily managed with a bit of practice and adherence to recommendations for genuine Zippo premium lighter fluid.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this Zippo model prioritizes both form and function. The Armor case with its high polish finish is visually striking, lending a touch of class to a utilitarian item. The added thickness of the case provides a comfortable, substantial grip, making it feel secure in the hand.
Ergonomically, it’s a classic Zippo design that’s been refined. The hinge is smooth and well-fitted, allowing for a satisfying flick of the wrist to open. The flint wheel is precisely machined and offers good traction for striking a flame. While the high polish is beautiful, it does tend to show fingerprints, requiring occasional wiping to maintain its gleam.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my extended testing, the Zippo Armor High Polish Lighter w/ Click is built for longevity. The all-metal construction and thicker case suggest it will withstand the rigors of regular use for years, if not decades. Maintenance is straightforward: refilling the fuel reservoir, replacing the flint when it wears down, and occasionally cleaning the wick.
The lifetime guarantee is the ultimate testament to the brand’s confidence in its product’s durability. I have not encountered any wear and tear that compromises its functionality, beyond the natural depletion of consumables like flint and fluid. Potential failure points are minimal, primarily residing in the consumables themselves, which are readily available and easy to replace.
Accessories and Customization Options
While the Zippo Armor High Polish Lighter w/ Click itself is the primary product, its ecosystem includes essential consumables. The most crucial are genuine Zippo premium lighter fluid, flints, and wicks. These are readily available at most retailers that carry Zippo products and are critical for maintaining optimal performance.
While not strictly accessories for the lighter itself, protective cases or custom engraving can personalize the Zippo. The brand offers a variety of replacement parts, ensuring that if a component like the flint wheel or hinge pin were to ever fail outside of normal wear, it could potentially be serviced.
Pros and Cons of **Zippo Armor High Polish Lighter w/ Click**
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The Armor case construction, being 1.5 times thicker, makes this model significantly more robust than standard Zippos, standing up well to drops and heavy use.
- Reliable Windproof Performance: It consistently produces a flame even in moderately windy conditions, making it dependable for outdoor activities.
- Timeless Design & Feel: The high polish finish combined with the substantial weight offers a premium aesthetic and satisfying tactile experience.
- Lifetime Guarantee: The “it works or we fix it free” promise provides immense confidence in the product’s long-term value and the manufacturer’s commitment to quality.
- Refillable for Lifetime Use: Its sustainable design reduces waste and cost over time, as it is designed to be refilled and maintained indefinitely.
Cons
- Requires Regular Fueling: Like all fluid lighters, it requires periodic refueling and flint replacement, which is more hands-on than disposable or butane lighters.
- Fingerprint Magnet: The high polish finish, while attractive, easily shows fingerprints and smudges, requiring frequent wiping to keep it pristine.
- Not for Precision Needs: For applications requiring a highly controlled or specific flame size, a torch lighter might be more suitable.
Who Should Buy **Zippo Armor High Polish Lighter w/ Click**?
This Zippo Armor High Polish Lighter w/ Click is ideally suited for anyone who values reliability, durability, and a classic, robust design. It’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, hikers, and anyone who needs a dependable ignition source in various conditions. Home workshop users, DIYers, and even those seeking a stylish, everyday carry item will appreciate its resilience and timeless appeal.
Those who should reconsider might be individuals seeking a sterile, single-use ignition source for highly sensitive laboratory environments or those who prefer the convenience of a disposable lighter with zero maintenance. People looking for a purely flame-torch type igniter for specific tasks like culinary work might also find it less suitable. Essential accessories to consider are genuine Zippo premium lighter fluid, spare flints, and perhaps a replacement wick for long-term preparedness.
Conclusion on **Zippo Armor High Polish Lighter w/ Click**
The Zippo Armor High Polish Lighter w/ Click is a masterclass in enhancing an already iconic product. It takes the legendary reliability and windproof performance of a classic Zippo and elevates it with a significantly more robust build. The Armor case not only adds substantial weight and a luxurious feel but also provides a level of durability that instills confidence for use in any environment.
Considering its construction, the lifetime guarantee, and the sheer satisfaction it provides with every click and flame, the price point of $76.89 is more than justified. This isn’t just a lighter; it’s a dependable tool and a piece of functional art designed to last. I wholeheartedly recommend the Zippo Armor High Polish Lighter w/ Click to anyone who appreciates quality craftsmanship, requires a reliable ignition source, and wants an item that will serve them faithfully for years to come. It’s an investment that pays dividends in performance and peace of mind.