The Soto Pocket Torch

This isn't exactly a post on stoves.  This is however stove related.  I've got a "make your life easier" gear tip for you.  Today's featured gear?  The Soto Pocket Torch.

A Soto Pocket Torch

Um, gosh, Jim, isn't that just, um, a lighter?

Well, I guess, but it's pretty darned nice lighter.  Let me tell you what I like about it.

First, it's got a piezoelectric ignition.  A good one.  One that works pretty reliably.  It usually takes two clicks, but it very consistently lights on the second click.

Second, it's a torch.  In other words, that flame comes out of the nozzle with some force.  It's not like a candle flame that can be blown out easily.  It's got decent wind resistance, and I can turn it different directions including sideways and straight down which is pretty nice for lighting certain stoves.


What's that you say?  Hand held lighters with piezoelectric ignitions don't work very well at altitude?  Well, you're absolutely right about that.  I've had lighters with piezo ignitions fail as low as 8,000 feet/2400m and succeed as high as 10,000 feet/3000m.  Somewhere in there, most piezoelectric ignitions on hand held lighters are going to fail.  But that's really not a problem with the Soto Pocket Torch.  Just pull the head off, and underneath the covers is an everyday Scripto lighter.

A normal Scripto lighter resides inside the body of a Soto Pocket Torch

That Scripto lighter has an ordinary flint and steel type striker which is not affected by altitude.

The flint and steel wheel type ignition on a Scripto lighter.

Another nice thing about that Scripto lighter:  If you want to know how much fuel you've got, just hold it up to the light.

Checking the fuel level on a Scripto Lighter

Update 14 Feb 2012:  I went to the local shop to get a new Scripto lighter.  They were out.  On a whim I tried a Calico brand lighter in the Soto Pocket Torch.  It worked just fine.  And of course it should.  I just checked their website and Scripto is owned by the same company.  Just a tip then:  If you can't find Scripto brand, try Calico.

So, there you have it, Hikin' Jim's recommendation for a lighter.  It's not exactly ultra light, but it is ultra convenient.

Hope that's a helpful gear tip,

HJ