I need some good ideas from you guys!<br>I have been reevaluating my outdoor gear, especially my "First aid kit" and the "Repair kit". Now I want to add a gas lighter to both, but I dont know of any good ways to keep the lighters from leaking. Im going to try self-sealing tape (vulcanizing tape) over the gas-button. Does anyone have any other good Ideas?<br>Im having a lighter in the first aid lit to desinfect needles and to heat up a paperclip to puncture blue-blooded nailbeeds. In the repair kit I will use it for melting glue. My idea (not tried) is that liquid epoxy and similar will freeze at -15C and that melting glue still can be used.<br>Both can be used to light a fire in a survival situation.<br><br>Stefan, Sweden<br><br>

Stefan, I carry a Windmill lighter. I haven't had any problems, but then I haven't exposed it to extremes in altitude or temperature yet. I don't know if they are available in Europe. Lighters can go two ways; quality or quantity. When I took my first ( and last) hot air balloon ride, the 'pilot' looked like a street vendor. He carried no less than 12 disposable BIC lighters in case of burner failure. Thats like backing up a new Volvo with a Yugo and a E. German Trabant. I go with quality!<br><br>

If you are worried about gas leakage, I would recommend finding a Bic or Cricket disposable lighter with electronic ignition. In the US, and maybe where you live, these have child safety locks on the buttons that should prevent leakage.<br><br>

I have been using a prince pocket torch for more than a year. You may consider it a little bit bulky. But if you need a lighter which does not leak (it has a cap on it and it won't burn unless you remove it, connected with a chain to the lighter), which has a flame lock (a red button, when pushed it gives contunious gas flow) and a plastic stand to put it on when you are doing repairs.<br><br>The flame is jet powered and you may cut through soft metal and hard plastics. The flame jet works without consuming too much gas. You can fill it with ordinary lighter gas. I smoke about 30 cigarettes a day, do few repairs with it sometimes, light BBQs etc. and it lasts about 40 days without refilling. <br><br>you may find a review on http://www.reviewguys.com/202/004.html<br>order one from<br>http://www.hill.u-net.com/flame4.htm in europe<br><br>or just check out from tobacco shops.<br><br>I have used it in extremes (not in high altitude myself but someone else did) without any problem. It easily lights wet wood and you can point it to anywhere without burning anything else. You can use it with the lock on the stand to heat up a paper clip (takes about 5 seconds) leaving both hands free. Excellent for repairs, good flame control.<br><br>If you have the chance try it in a tobacco shop or etc. it is one of the best pieces on my kit.<br><br><br><br>Survive and Protect