The Sparklite must be considered as a unit, which includes the splendid tinder. I've never experienced a failure with disposable lighters, and @ $1 they are a bargain. The previously mentioned altitude limitation and a finite fuel supply leave it on par with the Sparklite sans tinder. I could start a cyber flame by mentioning the sources of both units, but that won't heat anything but passions and I haven't had my coffee yet ( lousy slow burning ESBITS) <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />