Skunk,<br><br>Something occured to me today about Zippos. Zippos are generally not reccomended as survival lighters because the fluid evaporates whether you use the lighter or not. They can't be counted on to light on demand. Also, they're not particularly water/weatherproof. These are excellent points, but... they are packed with cotton that has presumably been repeatedly soaked in fuel (this may or may not be a help), and they contain a sparking device. Sounds a bit like the stuff many people (including myself) carry in their PSK's for fire-starting. I HAVE'NT TRIED THIS, but I'm thinking it's probably possible to use an empty Zippo to start a fire. I have several Zippos and will experiment with them, probably this weekend. I'll let you know if it works or not.<br><br>Also, if you're going to carry a Zippo, here are some things you should know.<br><br>1. Zippos will work with a variety of fuel. Kerosene, gasoline, diesel (but just barely), alcohol...anything liquid and flammable. Be careful when using anything other than lighter fluid. I'm not reccomending the practice, just say that it can be done. BTW, the alternate fuels will make cigarettes taste funny.<br><br>2. Be sure to carry extra flints. These are easily stored under the felt pad in the insert. If you have no tools, the edge of the case lid will turn the flint holder screw.<br><br>3. The flashy Zippo tricks (snapping the lid open, etc...) will reduce the life of the lighter significantly (sp?). <br><br>4. Never lay a shiny Zippo on a card table while playing cards. Other players will object strongly to you putting a mirror on the table whether you're cheating or not. How do I know this? Trust me, I know this... I suppose a shiny Zippo might make a poor excuse for a signal mirror as well...better than nothing for sure.<br><br><br>That's all for now.<br><br>Take care,<br>Andy