I thought for the holidays I would give my wife and myself a butane lighter as a stocking stuffer.

I shopped all over and settled on the Solo Storm for $10.99. Waterproof and worked ok and the price was right.

The day before christmas I go into Mavericks (gas station/ store chain here in Utah) to buy a newspaper and I saw some butane lighters with a compass. I checked them out and they were dual flame with adjuster. $7.99!!!!! They work way better than the Solo lighters and work great after an hour outside in freezing weather. In fact, they start up everytime, I am still amazed. I guess the crack-pipe crowd demanded a quality spoon heating device and Mavericks responded <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />.

They aren't water proof but they are waterproofable with some epoxy and some old bicycle tire strips.

I also found the key chain flint fire started reviewed by Doug that sells online for $12 to $14 for just $7.99 at my local sporting goods store and REI (recreational equipment incorporated) had the glass signal mirror reviewed by Doug for cheaper than online as well.

I think the 20mm compass will have to be an online purchase since nobody seems to carry them in stores. But you pick and choose your battles.

Cheers!!
My point is that one can often find good deals at the local shops and not have to pay shipping. You just have to be patient and shop around.