Very interesting. It does seem like the flints have swelled in size, indicating oxidation.
Any thoughts on ways to "innoculate" the flint of a new Bic against corrosion?
Sometimes rotating the spark wheel in the "opposite" direction will remove the oxidation without destroying the flint. Thus allowing the lighter to function as advertised.
Notice I said
SOMETIMES......
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I do the things that I must, and really regret, are unfortunately necessary.
RIP OBG