Zippos luckily can burn most fuels which make them great for preppers who plan to pick things up as they go in a bug out situation. Learn what fuel substitutes will work the best below:
Zippo Lighter Fuel Substitutes
But this brings up an interesting possibility. Although we can’t use combustible liquids (diesel fuel, kerosene, mineral spirits) in a Zippo, can we substitute other flammable liquids (gasoline, Coleman fuel, acetone)? Will they work?
Let’s start at ground zero. Zippo and/or Ronsonol lighter fluid. Do they work in a Zippo-style cigarette lighter?
Yes.
Coleman fuel. Does it work in a Zippo lighter?
Yes. White gas with a dash of perfume equals cigarette lighter fluid.
Note that Coleman fuel sells for $10 per gallon whereas Zippo lighter fluid sells for $88 per gallon when purchased in 4 oz. cans.
Gasoline (petrol), lacquer thinner, acetone – do they work?
No. At least not the way I’d hoped.
The problem is the Zippo wick.
Perhaps it is too small in diameter. Or too big. Or too dense. Or too fluffy. Or the wrong material (Zippo wicks are asbestos). After all, it was engineered to lift one specific fuel, white gas, from the fuel tank to the flame. Acetone was not a consideration.
BUT if you put two drops of acetone (or other flammable liquid) directly on the wick of a Zippo and spin the striker wheel, the acetone will ignite and burn for 30 seconds. And thirty seconds of live flame is not bad. Plenty of time to light a twist of paper or splinter of wood which can then be used to light your candle or your campfire.
Putting a Zippo in a bug out bag is an excellent idea, especially since a typical butane cigarette lighter can leak or get stuck in your bug out bag. If that happens, you won't be able to use it when you need it the most.
Plus, a Zippo also won't break or leak due to its metal body and hence can last a very long time if you take care of it. Compare that to a Bic lighter which has a limited lifespan and after it's broken will no longer be useable.
It turns out a Zippo is very useful for long-term survival, and you should add it to your bug out bag if you haven't done so already.
For more information on Zippos and lighter fuels, visit Backdoor Survival.
Like pocket burn? Lol. Sucks
a zippo would be my last resort they suck i use and carry ferro rod and also flint and steel everywhere i go i have not built a fire with a lighter in 20 years i only use flint and steel and i spend alot of time in the backcountry year round and always have a fire
Next page next page blar blar blar
Tara Portillo
Good advise. I have a zippo. It seems I have to refuel it every time I want to use it. These days it usually just takes up space in a drawer.
Use mine all the time!
Raider Johnny
While I agree with all that is said, lol I don’t think the author has ever goofed and put one upside down in pocket. The resulting chemical burn sux.
Well even if you don’t overfill it. If you put it in your pocket the fuel can leak out and cause a irritated skin problem
Nick Dobraska this is for you ✌
I’ve carried one since I was 15
Still USA MADE !
I have couple Zippo’s if anybody interested
They are great for Hand warmers as well.
I already know that is why I have one
Be careful if you own too many of them! The police call that drug paraphernalia!
I have actually used Wild Turkey in one.
This is my Zippo, its great but not something I’d rely on in an emergency. Zippo’s tend to dry out in a relatively short period of time, I prefer my ferro rod.
This is my Zippo, its great but not something I’d rely on in an emergency. Zippo’s tend to dry out in a relatively short period of time.
Michael A. Witherspoon
Atticus Holmes
NAPTHA
Not to mention the benefit that you can change the Flint when it wears out and keep on using it ….
While I like my Zippo, it’s really a terrible design in that the fuel evaporates really easily
They might not tell u this but u can run white gas pump gas or tire buffing compound
To help with the leaking fuel problem, I use a ranger band on mine. It help to prevent lot of leaking, and it also extends the life of the fuel a little bit. Been carrying my grandpa’s lighter now for years.
I have that same one. I have a leather pouch so I can carry it on my belt and not worry about it leaking.