Dec 15, 2021

Which is Better in Survival Situations Matches or Tactical Lighters?

Many preppers and survivalists wonder if they should keep matches or tactical lighters in their bug-out bag. Tactical lighters are more expensive than matches, but which one is better for survival? Tactical lighters can be used to start fires without the need for tinder, whereas you must use tinder with a match. Tactical lighters also offer windproof flame technology that makes them ideal for outdoor activities like camping or hiking. However, it's important to remember that this type of lighter does not work well when wet and needs fuel to function properly. With all of these factors considered, many people agree that both types of fire starters have their pros and cons; however, there are times when either one may come in handy!

Lighters

The age-old argument about which piece of equipment is superior. When it comes to lighting a fire, I've heard a lot of debates about lighters vs. matches and which is preferable. However, each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages when it comes to a survival crisis. Whether it could be a plasma lighter, flameless lighter or others. In contemplating including a survival pack in this area since it needs to break down some of primary survival lighters. The best tactical lighter is a must-have item for any Survival or Camping Bag, some has flameless innovation and can withstand adverse weather with durable waterproof casing adds as a handy tool. But how do you pick the finest one? We've done the legwork for you and discovered the best survival lighters.

BIC lighters

Because of their pricing, quality, and convenience of use. It's lighter with a built-in fuel supply (butane). A spark will appear almost every time you roll the striker wheel, lighting the gasoline.

Pros

Lightweight
Compact
Excellent quality
Affordable
Most stores carry it.
Long-term results (1,000 to 3,000 flint strikes)
Fuel that can be refilled
If they become wet, dry them out, and they'll function again.

However, it should not be stored in hot places or in direct sunlight. The fuel portion can break under extreme pressure.

Zippo Lighters

This is a classic survival lighter that I continue to use to this day. To reveal a wick, striker wheel, flint, and a windproof shell, flip the top (I love the clicking sound it produces). Pulling up the top piece reveals the fuel area, which can be refilled and the flint and wicks replaced.

Pros

Windproof. It's important to note that these aren't windproof. However, once a flame is lit, the cage surrounding the wick performs an excellent job of keeping it going, even if there is a gust of wind.
Flints are simple to replace.
It's simple to refuel.
Ergonomic and simple to operate

Cons

Fuel can seep out of the bottom of a lighter if it is not kept upright. This not only wastes energy but can also cause severe skin irritations.
Because the fuel in the lighter does not last very long, extra power should be carried.
It costs more than a butane lighter.

Electric Lighters

Unlike typical lighters, they do not produce a flame. Instead, they use electricity to create "plasma arcs" that can ignite a wide range of materials in an instant. Instead of utilizing regular gasoline, these lighters are "filled up" using a power source.

Pros

It's as simple as pressing a button.
Lightweight
Compact
Windproof
Survival Frog's Tesla lighter is rated for 300 ignitions per charge.
As long as there is a power supply and the lighter components are not damaged, it will work endlessly.
Some come with extras like a flashlight.

Cons

This is the priciest choice on the list.
It is reliant on a power source.
If you rely on a single charge, the number of ignitions is far smaller than with regular lighters.
Standard lighters are more sensitive to dampness and water damage than regular lighters.

Matches

Matches, like lighters, will break down this part into some of the many types of survival matches you might want to have in your survival kit. It's not a good idea to rely on matches to create fire because they struggle under challenging conditions. Each game gives you one and only one chance to make a fire. just plain science with smoke break and electric dual arc for easily blow in harsh winds for flammable objects.

They are, however, a top choice under normal conditions, so having some on hand as one of the multiple fire-starting methods is a brilliant idea. The lifeboat matches are the version that makes the most sense.

Paper Matches

These will be the most cost-effective matches available. Some stores even give them away for free when you buy certain items.

Pros

Meager cost
Lightweight
Compact

Cons

Moisture and water are easily absorbed. Therefore, they can't be utilized once they've become wet.
They can be difficult to light due to their flimsiness.
They rely on a striking surface to perform without a magnifying glass.

Kitchen Matches

This is the type of contest that most people envision when they think about matches. A stunning red, blue, or green wood body frame with a just over two-inch long striking head.

Pros

Affordable
Lightweight
Compact
Easy to use

Cons

Easily susceptible to moisture and water, they cannot be used once they are wet.
If not careful, the wood body can snap during striking.
Without a magnifying glass, they are dependent on a striker surface to function.

Stormproof Matches

These are the next generation of matches and are the big brother to kitchen matches. They're windproof and waterproof, and once lit, they're nearly impossible to put out. Even if a lit match is put into a pool of water, it will continue to burn!

The Verdict Between Matches and Lighters

You might not like my first response, which is that you should always have a lighter and matches with you. Why would you limit yourself to just one tool for creating fire when the capacity to do so quickly and rapidly is essential? If you choose, I would recommend carrying a Bic lighter and stormproof matches.

But I'll play the game: if I had to choose between one type of lighter and one match, which would I select? Every time, a Bic lighter comes out on top. It's incredibly economical, simple to use, has long-lasting fuel and flint, creates an instant flame, isn't reliant on a secondary striker surface, is water-resistant, and can be found practically anyplace.