First Impression: Zippo Lighter with Thunderbird Butane Insert
Time Stamps:
Zippo Intro: 0:24
Zippo Unboxing: 1:02
Zippo Closer Look: 1:27
Thunderbird Unboxing: 3:14
Thunderbird Closer Look: 3:28
How Thunderbird Works: 6:28
Refilling A Thunderbird Insert: 4:20
Putting Them Together: 6:57
Final Summary: 7:28
Outtakes: 8:30
In this video I unbox and go over my first impressions of a Replica 1941 Zippo lighter with a Thunderbird Vector butane insert.
Second Look Video: • A Second Look: Zippo L...
If you like the video give it a Thumbs Up and consider Subscribing! If you have a question or a thought worth sharing, please leave them in the comments below. Thanks for watching!
SUBSCRIBE:
kzhead.info_c...
LINKS:
** Please Support the channel by using these Affiliate Links **
Lighters:
Zippo Lighter: amzn.to/2BBkFnH
Vector Insert: amzn.to/2I8G79l
High Quality Butane Fuel:
Zippo: amzn.to/2Xk3SgM
Vector: amzn.to/2LznzPE
How to Refill Thunderbird: goo.gl/oDMTKC
General Amazon Affiliation: amzn.to/2S4w88R
LET'S CONNECT:
Website: www.bengeldreich.com/
Instagram: / bengeldreich
Facebook: / bengeldreich
Twitter: / bengeldreich
For possible video collaboration, sponsorship and joint ventures feel free to email ben@bengeldreich.com.
#HisPNWLife #zippo #edc
You're supposed to fill them upside down. The head of the insert pointing towards the floor as you fill it as it's meant to store the fuel as a liquid and if you don't invert it it goes into the thunderbird as a gas which takes up more space and doesn't let you fill it as mucn..
Hey Crkr!! Oh wow!! I didn’t know that! Thanks for the heads up, I’ll try that the next time I have to fill it up!!
::Thunderbird insert fix:: If anyone has an issue with getting this insert to light after changing the flint. USE A BIC FLINT from a disposable bic lighter. Zippo flints for some reason will not ignite a flame in these inserts. Trust me and save yourself a headache. The bic flint works flawlessly. Hope this helps someone
Thanks for letting us all know. I'm sure this will save people loads of time!!
@@BenGeldreich very welcome
Great tip. I actually use trimmed down BIC lighter flints in my regular Zippo's. Couldn't find my spare flints the other day so I harvested 2 dead BIC's and cut them down to the right size with a pair of small side cutters.
I ordered a Vector KGM Thunderbird and possibly will run into this in the future. Good to know. Thanks
I only knew of the torch inserts for Zippos, thanks for this video, I'll have to pick one up to have that soft flame option.
Hey Jerome!! Thanks for the comment! Yeah I prefer the soft flame and pretty glad that Vector makes one as it helps keep my Zippo looking like it’s original.
I liked the Vector insert so well that I bought 4 of them so that I would have one in all of my Zippo lighters. I don't smoke either so I use them infrequently but after two years I have not had to refill them. I collect Zippo lighters and love the one you bought. I did have a problem with one of them because it leaked butane and emptied in 4 days. The replacement worked fine.
Hey Frank!! Thanks for sharing your experience. I’m happy that the Thunderbird inserts are working well for you!
I'm a big zippo fan and I've been looking for a butane insert with a soft flame that still has a spark wheel to give it that traditional look. I will be ordering this one soon! Thank you for the video it help me out. 🔥
Hey Hulk Midget! Thanks you for the comment. Glad the video helped out!
That’s the wrong butane my man, those are meant for portable stoves, they are filled with impurities, oils, and other dirty minerals. Use premium lighter butane like Xikar purofine butane, or calibri premium butane, they are specifically meant for lighters.
Hey Jose!! Thanks for the comment and the information / suggestion for butane fuel! I didn't realize that there was a difference between the butane fuel used for camping stoves and the fuel used for lighters. I guess, now that I think about it, one doesn't typically light a cigar / cigarette from a camping stove. LOL! That said, seeing as I don't smoke, I'm curious why I shouldn't use the butane fuel canisters that I have kicking around? Do you think that these impurities could affect the thunderbird insert and prevent it from working Thanks!
Ben Geldreich Actually yes, it can cause lighters to clogged up and prevent them from lighting again. Premium butane is pretty expensive compared to portable stove can butane, but they will for sure help your lighter last for years. On eBay there’s premium butane for around $8-$15 per can , I put a link here Incase your interested , it’s Xikar purofine premium butane rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F272572836701
Mine dosnt work
Hey@@wolf2562! You're thunderbird doesn't work anymore because of the butane you used? Or what exactly isn't working?
Ben Geldreich I don’t know i used the same type of butane u used and it leaked into my hand but i would not light
I have had one for about a year and rarely use it. When I do it works well. I like the direct flame useful in lighting candle wicks aiming down ect. I have only had to refill it once.
Hey CM Silver!! Thanks for the comment! I believe Thunderbird also makes a pipe insert which I was tempted to get for the purpose of lighting candles and incense etc. Not that the normal insert wouldn't work, I think the pipe insert may be easier to use upside down. I don't smoke so couldn't really justify the purchase of another insert.
You've only had to refill it once? That's remarkable. I've heard some people complain that it evaporates for them after 2 weeks.
These inserts are outstanding and last a VERY LONG TIME
Hey Joseph!! I’ve only had mine for 9 months or so but it’s been working flawlessly. How long have you had one for?
Ben Geldreich Years and never had any problems and a single recharge lasts a few months with average use
Wow that’s great to hear! Out of curiosity what butane fuel do you use?
Thanks for video! You can also use the flash on Your smartphone for fuel-level-control. Just put together a white area on the tank's bottom with working flash-diode.
Hey What’s Up Doc! Thanks for the suggestion. I’ll have to give that a try
@@BenGeldreich OK! Good Luck!
i bought the zippo brand butane insert with the torch flame. very nice.
Hey Jacob! Glad you enjoy it! I love mine!
Now I want one of those for my USAF lighter.
Hey Cipher TheDemonLord! I got mine off Amazon and have had no problems with it.
Nice video! I have a Zippo from Smokey Mountain Knives that has morse code engraved on the side, and a butane insert that has a dual blue pencil flame. I went with that insert to make it easier to start a fire. Besides, I don't smoke...unless I get too close to the fire!
Thanks Boyd! That sounds like a pretty cool Zippo! What exactly does the morse code engraved on the side stand for? Is your butane insert a Thunderbird insert? Well I hope you don't catch on fire anytime soon! LOL!
@@BenGeldreich yes it is a Thunderbird insert. www.smkw.com/zippo-sos-lighter Not just painted on but engraved, then filled with paint, not likely to rub off easily!
Thanks for sharing Boyd! I think that's a smart engraving for a lighter! Especially if you use it for back country type camping. I haven't seen a morse code chart since Boy Scouts!
The brass Zippo really does look nice, and I'm sure over time it will look even better. I'm still stuck whether the soft flame or torch is for me. I love the classic flame, but being able to withstand wind more with the torch is appealing.
Hey Adrian! Thanks for the comment. Yeah the brass has aged lovely. I’m sure it will keep aging nicely. I don’t smoke so can’t speak about the advantages from that point but I chose the soft flame version to help keep the look and feel of the original lighter. I haven’t had any issues, wind or no wind, with the soft flame to date. If you order from Amazon you can get both and see which one you like and return the one you don’t. Let me know how it works out for you.
@@BenGeldreich great idea, thanks!!
They make gold plated Zippo ones pipe lighters too !
I have this same combination. I was initially disappointed that mine would not light like the one in the video. I realized that there might be some slight discrepancies in production, and that my fuel was flowing right past the spark without being lit. So, I tried tilting the lighter to one side, so that the fuel flows over the spark wheel, and that works. It doesn't look exactly like in a Bogart film, but it works.
Hey Jim!! Glad it all worked out for you!!
I got the Thunderbird g insert and it is the superior transparent version, really useful as I can see how much fuel I have. It's really good the only downside is it is an extremely tight fit in all my classic cases, I have to wiggle it to get it out. The flame size is good no matter how big you need, but it gets hot fast.
I didn't realize that Vector made a new insert. That's great. Mine is still working fine so I won't upgrade unitl this one dies. The old insert is still a tight fit and I too have to wiggle it a bit. Hope you are putting it to good use.
PNW ❤️❤️❤️ great video thanks
Spencer L Thanks Spencer!! 🙌🏻
Very nice
Thanks Zamri!!
Good job justcwatched a video where a guy who ordered rubber gaskets for zippo lighters.
Hey Mr. 2cents!! Thanks for the comment. I know KZhead user cutlerylover has been experimenting with those rubber gaskets. I can’t wait to see the results.
Hah! Same. All hail the Algorithm!
You have my Zippo :o
Hey Zekeskater3!! Well then I guess you and I have have a similar sense of style!
Ive had the Thunder Vector insert in 2 of my Zippos for over 4 years. The only malfunctions ive ever had were when the insert was nearly empty so more of a low fuel warning than a malfunction. I will use these inserts in all my Zippos as they are THE best option.
Hey WarGrrl3!! Thanks for sharing your experience. I love mine and don't see changing it anytime soon! For style points, I do wish they made a optional brass insert and I also wish Vector could put some sort of fuel level indicator on the insert. Outside of those two wishes, I can't complain. The Thunderbird hasn't failed me yet.
@@BenGeldreich I so agree, it would be great to know how much fuel I have. Also, before you put the butane in, just do a REAL QUICK vent to let some air out; it allows you to get more fuel in when you are refilling. Peace.
Thanks WarGrrl3! What a great idea!! Out of curiosity what do you use to let the air out? The edge of the fuel canister, a paperclip etc? Thanks for sharing!
@@BenGeldreich i vent the insert w either a paperclip that i have w the canister or i use a q-tip so no fuel hits anything. Lol. It actually does let you fill it more fully.
Thanks WarGrrl3! I'll give it a try!
So i have a standard "walmart" chrome Zippo that i paid 10 bucks for. I just purchased a Thunderbird soft flame insert for that case and im going to put up the stock Zippo insert for spare parts for my Brass armor Zippo that i carry from time to time. In that lighter i use one of the rubber gaskets that replaces the felt pad at the bottom and i also wrap a couple layers of plumbers tape around the bottom of the insert and both of those tigether increases fuel life a good deal. Im going to use the walmart Zippo with the Thunderbird insert for my EDC loadout.
Sounds like a nice plan!!
The Zippo is a great lighter design, and for it's time was the best you could get. From World War II up through the 1960s (before the Butane lighters came on the scene) the Zippo ruled the day. But today a Zippo is to lighters what a flintlock rifle is to firearms. It was a classic, and still kept around for nostalgic reasons, but there's just a lot better options now due to modern design.
Hey Nauncolar! Thanks for sharing! I couldn't agree with you more. I own mine mainly for nostalgic reasons, although with the butane insert it makes the lighter a lot more practical!
Personal choice - I never use anything but zippo, and I started using in my teens, and I am 50 this month.
I love zippos even today. They come up with butane jet flame, but I wish zippo would make their own soft flame inserts and not 3rd party ones. I find that liquid fuel evaporates and sometimes does not light up, also a bit stinks when used inside.
I totally agree!!
nah the zippo is the 1911,. bic and other plastic lighters are glock
Shine a light thru the insert to confirm its full. Don’t force the insert into the Zippo case, as it may become lodged or stuck. I had the insert get stuck in my replica ’41 and the chimney snapped off try’n to remove it to refill. It fits most armor and dime store cases. Just FYI.
Thanks Tyler!! I appreciate the advice and you sharing your experience. I'll try the light technique the next time I'm about to refill it!
Very good product! I remember using a zippo for the first time, I pocketed it and was like “damn this sun is shining bright on my thighs, not realizing lighter fluid was leaking in my shorts
Hey Mark! I can definitely relate. LOL! Thanks for sharing and enjoy the day!
Horrible scared my leg in the same situation
keep doing videos! great content :) i sub'd
Hey Senór Ningúno!! Thanks for the comment! I appreciate the kind words and motivation to keep going! Enjoy the day!
I went backpacking with my adult kids this summer. My eldest daughter was showing off a Pizo Electric torch lighter similar to this one. (not the same one though.) She had just purchased it for the trip and was pretty jazzed about it. She even poked a bit of fun at me for being "old school" and using an outdated Zippo. Her new torch worked fine at our 5000' elevation home. But, it would not work at all at just over 10,000'. The Zippo worked just fine during the trip, and never failed once. Her Butane lighter began working again when we came back down to the 5000' elevation. I would not depend on a Butane torch lighter if you get much over say 6000'. Just keep your Zippo filled up.
Hey angryagain68! Thanks for sharing your story! I’ve read a bit about butanes performance in the cold and at altitude. I haven’t done much testing on the Thunderbird above 6000 feet yet. If I find myself in that situation, I’ll report back my findings. Enjoy the day!
@@BenGeldreich Thanks. I do plan to get one of these anyway. I carry a Zippo at all times, and sometimes need it to thaw a frozen padlock at my work. The Butane lighter might be a good option for that purpose. Thanks for the review video!
Mainly applies to the torch lighter at altitude. A soft flame should still light which is what he’s using. It’s butane fueled but no torch element. All in all I do agree it’s hard to escape the traditional zippo but everyone hates refueling. The biggest drawback on butane is when they get cold like a BIC it will not light. Usually you warm it up with your hands or keep it in your pocket. The traditional zippo won’t have any of those issues except your out of luck when the fuel is gone.
@@ksull72487 Possibly. But, "should still light" just isn't good enough 10k feet up in the backcountry many miles in. A Zippo is still at least a spark wheel even when out of fuel. The same goes for a Bic. Just at a MUCH, MUCH lower level of quality than a Zippo.
Like that zippo
Hey Alex!!! Me too! :)
how’s the resistance though?? i love how windproof the traditional zippo is
You can add a frezer bag corner to the bottom of your brass insert after you fill it with Zippo fluid this will help a lot with evaperation ! Fuel econemy , i use a Zippo butane single torch in mine did you know the plastic bag trick ?
Hi Scott! No I hadn't heard of that. Is there a video of blog post about how to set this up?
I had a jet liter but it was too finiky. i ha to adjust the flame to get it to work and when i refilled i had to adjust it again. i got the soft flame and it works really nice. set the flame to the size you want and it works every time with no finicky adjustments. Have any of you note how long the refill lasts with daily use? UPDATE. i just found that if i put a bright desk light behind the insert i can see the fluid level in the lighter to check if it is full. neat.
Hey goldassayer93555! Thanks for the comment and sharing your experience! I especially appreciate the update comment about using a bright desk light. I'll have to try that next time I want to fill it up. With regards to refilling the insert, I haven't needed to refill it yet and I'm almost a year in. Still lights up and burns brightly so lasts a really long time. All that said I don't use it too often in the winter months. I would be curious to know what others experience is for refilling their inserts, so please update us all a bit when you get a bit more experience with the insert. Enjoy the day!
I have one of the jet flame inserts and it doesn't fit in certain cases for some reason and as far as I know they are the same except for color.
Hey ucity metalhead! I remember reading somewhere that Zippo had a lighter with a different size insert which made the Thunderbird way to tight. I thought it was the Vintage lighter but I may be mistaken. If concerned you could alway email Vector I’m sure they know.
@@BenGeldreich yeah that's what I suspected if I remember correctly it was slimmer than the one that fit the insert.
Like this vidio.❤
Thanks Moch!!!
I'm always down to experiment with different fuel sources and inserts but there's just something about the smell of lighter fluid that does it for me
I do like the smell. I don’t smoke but I’ve heard many people don’t like the taste.
I love the inserts, but the liquid fuel makes for a more aesthetic flame. Kinda like the difference between a gas fireplace and a wood fireplace. Wish Zippo could come up with a way to seal it.
Hey Sheldon, I couldn't agree with you more!! Love the the flickering of the flame when the liquid fuel is used, but really don't want to carry fuel with me when heading out on a multi day hike or bike adventure.
Is it still windproof after you put the thunderbird inserts?
Hey Mateo!! I've had no problem whatsoever with the Thunderbird insert. Went camping a few weeks back and experienced wind, rain, cloud and sun and every time I struck the Thunderbird it lit up and kept burning until I closed the lid. That said, I don't believe they advertise windproof, rather wind resistant. For me a small price to pay for not having to cary fuel with me in fear that I'm gonna run out. Hope that helps! Enjoy the day!
Man, zippo should release soft flame versions, too. Using a jet flame insert does a good job on my cigar, but it literally burns off my tip of my cigs
Yeah I couldn't agree with you more. Although I think they won't because why would they continue to sell the original inserts if they had a butane one?
I am actually looking for a torch insert with maximum butane capacity and piezo pushbutton ignition. Maybe Tbird has a different model for me? I'm jazzing my CamelFilters coupon Zippo lighter, It's really pretty solid, just want gaseous fuel, for reasons. Wish there were a PROPANE conversion!
I don’t know of any propane conversions for a zippo. But yes that would be another cool insert option.
Are there any butane slides for the slim Zippos? I haven't be able to find some at popular suppliers and retailers.
Not that I’m aware of. If I were on the hunt id search on cutlerylovers KZhead channel. He may have come across one or two.
Hey, good clip mate. I never knew they made gas inserts for zippos! Another thing to consider is that butane can has a bent siphon straw on the inside. If you lay it down with the cutaway on the rim pointing up, you get gas. if you roll it over so the cutaway is facing down, you get liquid. These canisters are designed to deliver gas in the upright position or on its side with that cutaway facing up. You need the butane in its compressed liquid form so you will need to orientate the can accordingly. It might get more complicated as that can empties. I'm with the others, the expensive lighter gas has been filtered. If you're in a pinch, it's good to know that cooking gas works!
Hey Machete Bushcraft Australia!! Thanks for the comment! I really appreciate you taking the time to give a detailed explanation on how butane gas and how to properly fill lighters. I also try and recommend higher quality butane, but I’m a bit stubborn and don’t like wasting things so am still using the butane canister in the video to fill my lighter when it needs it. Once it’s finished I’ll switch to something a biter higher grade. Thanks again!!
@@BenGeldreich Stubborn!? You and me both brother, It must be a Ben thing. I would have done the same.
Mine works OK, but when i near empty, the flame starts to shoot way up about 4-5 inches or so no matter how much gas i set to release with the adjustable valve at the bottom. I don't like that the hinge is so loose with the insert inside though. Those of you having trouble knowing when it's filled: applying your butane can for like 1 second fills the thing. remove the sticker on one side then you will be able to see through the container if you hold it up to the light
Nice tip on removing the sticker. Thanks for sharing that! I haven't heard anyone complain about the flame being super high near the end of the butane! Mind you I don't think I've ever let it completely run out.
Do you have a new link for the insert on amazon? The one in the description doesn’t work.
Hey Sean! Yes I'm aware. Apparently Vector isn't really selling the soft flame inserts on Amazon anymore. Not sure why. If you are also looking for a case some Amazon sellers are selling the case and soft flame insert together.
I carry and use zippos for many reasons, and one of them being if its a flammable liquid it will light in my zippo. Yes, I know all the exceptions, but I have carried zippo since my teens, and have used just about everything flammable. I travelled cross Canada and the United States by hitch hiking, and by car and by motorcycle.
Thanks for sharing! When did you hitch hike across Canada?
@@BenGeldreich total of 4 times, early 90s
Good for you for getting out there and seeing the world any way you can! I've only hitched hike when I needed some support due to car or bike issues. Never to travel, at least not yet!
@@BenGeldreich lol, if only I would stop. UK, Thailand, China, Hong Kong and Philippines now.
My Thunderbird fits loosely in my Zippo housing. I added two pieces of gaffers tape to the insert to pad it a bit so that it wouldn't slide out, which works, but I don't feel you should have to mod your insert. My lighter is the 2007 Limited Edition Sailor Jerry model. How does yours fit after 1 year of use?
Hey JT! Mine fits as snug as it did the first day I placed it inside the Zippo case. I do remember reading about a few Zippo models that the Thunderbird had troubles fitting into but don't remember reading about any being loose. Gaffer's tape is a good fix and I'd probably do the same if mine ever loosens up. I don't take it out of the Zippo often, only to refill it and that happens maybe once a year.
Conversely the Thunderbird insert I purchased (the model g - soft flame) is almost impossible to remove from my zippo.
From my earlier research I read that it all depends on which model of zippo you are using as there are slight differences in the thickness and shape of the case.
Apparently there's 2 versions of the Model G - The one you have with the opaque plastic and the older one (which came in the mail today (with the clear bottom section.) The clear version is a P.I.A. to remove. The version you (and I have - I have 2 thunderbirds) fit in all my zippo's - models from the 80's to now.
@@stevenb3442 Well there you go then. I heard good things about the earlier model except that it was a tight fit on some models. I seem to remember watching a video where someone actually broke the thunderbird while trying to get it out of the Zippo! Did you purchase the older version off of ebay?
just make sure you use a pen or something to release the rest of the remaining gas before you refill it. you can blow a seal that way
Thanks for sharing. I don’t tend to release the remaining gas before refilling. Should this be done every time?
@@BenGeldreich That has been my understanding in the butane torch cigar smoking world at least. "Bleeding" the tank prior to refill. However, I will say I'm definitely not an expert. But I can say that since following that SOP some time ago I have not had any issues. I really liked this insert btw. Thank you for your video
Thanks for sharing your experience. I’m sure it will help others.
I bought the same flint wheel Thunderbird you have in the video. The cam doesn't snap closed well (not snappy) it's sort of sticky and the lid will open slightly and butane will vent. This happens if the insert is in the Zippo or not. I contacted KGM Vector and got one email about troubleshooting, but after I explained that the cam doesn't operate correctly they have not responded. Disappointed. Not sure if I will spend money to try another insert. I'd use this for cigars. Also, the Zippo insert closes the lid and keeps the lid aligned. The Thunderbird does not, the lid is crooked when using the Thunderbird.
Hey Gunnar! Thanks for sharing your experience. I’m sorry to hear that you are having trouble with your Vector Thunderbird and that Vector isn’t responding to you. I hope they will replace it for you as I seem to recall the Thunderbird having a lifetime warranty. Are you trying to find another insert besides the stock zippo insert because you don’t like the taste of zippo fuel with your cigars? If so I will be reviewing an electric zippo insert soon that may do the trick. It’s a tad heavier than the Thunderbird but from my testing so far the battery last a long time!!
@@BenGeldreich Hi Ben- Correct, Zippo lighter fluid just doesn't work well with cigars. I have butane torches, and a Fuego electric element lighter, and want a butane soft flame so I have all 3 lighting options (for fun). One thing I want is a soft flame that doesn't require holding the button down (more fun just like the original), hence the flint version. I got a #218 Zippo matte black case and a black Zip Guard. I'll try one more time with KGM Vector but I won't be spending money to mail back and forth. If they don't send another one I'll take this one apart and see if the cam/leaf spring is repairable. Not sure if it needs more tension, or if the cam isn't riding properly on the leaf spring, or maybe the hollow rivet is the problem. Interestingly, I noticed in some older internet photos/videos from 5 years ago, the Thunderbird soft flame/flint insert was a different model with a coil spring/cam rather than a leaf spring (see Z-Plus)...so not sure what company actually manufactures these items.
Yeah I do remember seeing an older model on some youtube videos as you are describing. I read somewhere that the version 1.0 was better built and I believe that is the version you are speaking about. Unfortunately I too am not sure who manufactures them so I can't really help. Hopefully things get resolved and or you find a solution!
@@BenGeldreich Bought another Thunderbird soft flame/flint insert. The cam/spring works better, but the cam/spring is definitely not nearly as strong as the original Zippo lighter fluid insert. So the Zippo case lid rattles and if you move quickly will open ever so slightly and and close. Not ideal and detracts from the cool Zippo experience but certainly not the end of the world. Especially since it's only used every couple of months. Don't know if this is inherent to the soft flame/flint model since it's slightly different than the other models. Doesn't seem ready for prime time if you ask me. Someday may encounter something better. Thanks for the input!
I have 2 seperate Soft flame Thunderbirds and both have issues with minimal use. One has a broken flint wheel pin, and other doesn't want to light. They offer lifetime warranty but alas, living in Sydney Australia makes it cheaper to buy new one...hence why I have 2
Hey haunmcinnes! Sorry to hear that you have had trouble. I've been there with other products and understand the annoyance. Have you tried completely emptying the one that won't light first and then changing the butane you are using with it? Maybe you can write vector and ask for their guidance?
@@BenGeldreich Hi Ben, thanks for response. Yes, I have emptied it completely a number of times and refilled with Samba and Ventti butane (not sure if you have these brands), and changed flints, but no improvement. I have 6 other butanes and have always managed to iron out any issues using the usual techniques ie purge before refill, warm in hand before lighting etc. Funny thing is, when I do a long swipe down leg it often works and burns perfectly (recommend wearing jeans). Good idea re contacting Vector, I will do this and see what options they have. I live in Sydney, Oz so not worth sending back since would be cheaper to buy new. Cheers
I want to get one
Hey Levi! I got mine off amazon. Love it and have no problems with it.
CMIIW, but i read somewhere that the insert of authentic zippo is stamped Mde in Zippo, not Made in USA like this one?
Hey Dedy Gunawan! I haven’t come across that information myself so I can’t speak about it. The link below is to Zippo’s website where it talks about all the markings on the bottom of a Zippo. www.zippo.com/pages/date-codes
If you are not a smoker and you own a zippo you have no reasons not to use kerosene. It has a much higher ignition point than zippo premium fuel and because of that, it doesn't evaporate so fast. From my tests, at this moment, after 2 months and 1 week the zippo I have refilled with kerosene (lamp fuel) still works like in the first day (I have used the lighter to about one or two times a week for period of 9 weeks and still continue the test untill is dry...). If you are a smoker and use a zippo, kerosene might be a little bit smelly for your cigars :) affecting the taste or something (not a smoker tho...). PS: kerosene is also alot cheaper than zippo fuel.
Hey Aibatt! Thanks for sharing your experience. I will have to look into that as I have a few Zippo inserts just lying around.
Hey man, they sell a seal on Amazon that goes in the bottom which deals the fluid in the lighter so evaporation is eliminated. And if you use butane, use the proper gas for lighters. That stuff you bought is for camping stoves. Do some research for yourself. That gas you have is full of oils and impurities that will clog your lighter.
Hey Mike! Thanks for the comment and suggestions. Are you referring to this seal that fellow KZheadr cuttlerylover tested? kzhead.info/sun/h8eAgqtwamZrfnA/bejne.html With regards to the butane fuel, I am aware that the fuel I used in the video has impurities and isn’t made for lighters. I’m a bit frugal at times ... wanted to use what I had first. Enjoy the day!
Those seals don't stop all evaporation because the wick will still promote fuel evaporation in a Zippo.
If you fill it too much with gas? Can it explode or something? Is this safe? Also, how do you know when it’s filled?
Hey Duke! No it won’t explode. These inserts have been around for a long tine and if they weren’t safe Vector wouldn’t be selling them. I’d suggest reading the instructions to better understand the insert. Knowing when it’s full is the hardest part of the process. Sometimes I put the insert up against the light to see if I can see how full it is but it doesn’t always work. Probably the worst part about the Thunderbird design.
Good video. Thanks for filming it. I was literally just wondering if anybody had come up with a solution to the leaking problem. The insert seems quite tight, though. How do you get it out?
Hey Budding Survivalist! Thanks for the comment! The Thunderbird insert is indeed a tight fit. It isn't too tight though, it's a tad tighter than the original Zippo insert which I really like as it feels more secure. To take the Thunderbird insert out I simply pull up on the sides of the insert with a tiny bit of effort and slowly rock the insert from side to side which helps eases the insert up. Sounds complicated but It only takes about 1 second more than removing the Zippo insert. I wouldn’t recommend pulling on the insert too hard as I would imagine one could pull the whole top of the lighter off. I actually took footage of taking the Thunderbird Insert out of the case, but while editing, I recognized that I was rambling on about some things that didn't really matter. LOL! I can post a quick updated video for you if you want to see how I take it out? Let me know either way. Enjoy the rest of your day!
Cool. I'd like to see a video of you pulling it out to see how difficult it seems to be. BTW, do you ever plan to do a video on your overall EDC you carry around?
Ok, I'll film footage of me removing the insert soon and let you know once it's done. I'll pin a comment on this video with the link as well. With regards to what I cary for my EDC, I have a few more videos to shoot and edit first, but will defiantly add that to the list!
@@BenGeldreich Cool. Thanks. I just bought a Zippo last night. I will probably upgrade to the modification this modification if doesn't look too hard to get out. Also, I don't recall you saying how much it cost. Do you recall?
No problem! What kind / model Zippo did you buy? I believe the Thunderbird insert cost me $15. I bought it here amzn.to/2I8G79l
Inserts are the way to go......................
Hey BennyCFF!! Yeah for now. Maybe Zippo will make something in the future. Do you own a Thunderbird or a different brand of insert?
how did he put the sticker on the box?can i get full instructions?
Hey Bill! I just slowly peeled the sticker off, and then placed the sticker on the back of the Zippo box.
Instructions? You put the sticker on the box 💁♂️
Hey does this change the sound of the ping at all?
Nope. At least not on mine.
@@BenGeldreich Ok thanks, didn't expect a reply from a 2 year old video but really appreciate it man!
The best thing Zippos has created they could have done many years before. Now they can create Monopoly in lighters market.
Yeah, I know they now make butane inserts but still not a soft flame version like the one Vector makes.
Wipe insert with olive oil for easier insert and to take it out
Hey Gadget in VT! Thanks for the comment and suggestion! My zippo and insert isn't that tight to warrant putting oil on it. However putting a lubricant on the thunderbird or the inside of the Zippo isn't a bad idea for those who find the fit a bit too tight for their liking. Out of curiosity any reason why you suggest olive oil, besides other lubricants?
ZIPPO BUTANE GAS BLESHDER, FOGGREHL & SHAEGLOCHT BOUBIE. UPWITHITS WITH OOT END AND GALORE 👍 👍 👍 👍 👍 👍
Hey Jeff, not 100% sure I understand your comment, can you elaborate?
Mine didn't last long. Build quality is so-so at best. Stopped working after maybe four fill ups. Near impossible to see level of fluid. Mine in particular was an electronic spark version with the dual modes, flame or torch. Also, the Thunderbird I had also did not fit the authentic Zippo casing very well, it was loose and needed a piece of electrical tape around the insert to make it stay put.
Hey Whatmakesittick! Sorry to hear that! Mine still ticking after a year and a bit. That said I don't use it all that often. Camping and the occasional indoor use. Maybe try the soft flame thunderbird like the version I have. It's a tight fit for me and my 1941 replica. Also the single flame style doesn't have as many functions which hopefully means less chances of something breaking.
Does anyone know how the cam works? Like when its flipped up its off but when flipped down its on and releasing gas. How does that work?
Hey Justine! I haven't taken one apart so anything I'd say would be based on assumptions. If you are asking because you want to fix something then I'd suggest writing Vector directly and see if they can help. I believe the older version of the Thunderbird soft flame insert was made of a different plastic material and it was easier to see the moving parts and the fuel level. You could try looking at images on the web to see if that helps you out.
Do you still have the brass insert? Can i have it?
Hey BathTime Nordstrom! No I'm keeping it for a backup and in case I ever have to send my zippo in for repair I will need both case and insert. Zippo does sell the inserts including a brass one for around $15 .... amzn.to/35RbprJ
Can you use this for fire tricks
I don’t see why not! The only difference is the fuel used and of course the container for the fuel. The way in which the lighter is lit remains the same.
Ben Geldreich cool! I'll look into getting one!
Is the dent in lower right face a replica too!? I wouldn't have wanted that lighter because of the face dent, an being taped up without inspection, that was a failure! I just saw walk through of Zippo, an woman flashing through final inspections but this one got past her!
Hey Tim! LOL! Good eye! I never noticed the dent until I was editing the video. It actually looks worse in the video than in person. A lot of time has passed since I shot this video and the zippo has developed a few other dents and scratches from use. I do like a good patina so I'm ok with it however it turns out! Do you own a Zippo?
Where can i buy this thunderbird insert?
I bought mine on Amazon. However It isn’t always available. The next best option is to buy directly from Vector.
Does it still make the ping sound?
Absolutely!!!
@@BenGeldreich hell yeah
That is pretty cool thanks for the review but I think I'm going to stick with my standard Zippo the smell of the Zippo fluid is part of it along with the click strike click sound, I've seen those on Amazon thinking of ordering one for shits and giggles though for one of my old Zippo cases.
Hey Redeye Jedi!! Thanks for the comment. Yeah I agree about the smell. It’s definitely a missing experience with the new setup. The click strike or closing sound is still there. It sounds and acts like a a Zippo, minus the smell and fuel source. BTW ... great user name!!
@@BenGeldreich lol, thank you, I actually just got a Zippo with red eye Jedi engraved on it, have you tried or seeing the butane torch lighter insert for Zippos?
Yes I’ve seen it but it didn’t appeal to me. I wanted to keep the look and feel of an original zippo.
@@BenGeldreich right on I can dig that, I was thinking of also getting one of those for one of my other old Zippo cases just to have as an extra backup, but to be honest the only time I use torch lighter is when I'm dabbing and I quit dabbing about a year ago.
I did look at the pipe lighter insert. It’s pretty cool as it has an opening at the side. I wanted something that would stay lit if I needed to use it hands free or as an emergency lantern.
👍
Да прикольная штучка! Закажу себе тоже.
Right on!
Oh man it looks cold out there because you’re hands went purple for a minute lol
Hey AriesR!! Yes I seem to remember it being quite a cold day when I filmed the video.
Nice im gonna get one. Tired of my fluid evaporating.
Hey Joshua!! Yeah that’s why I got one too!
The only problem is that the button for the butane is the cam u can't close ur zippo without it slowy draining just like a normal insert
I want one where could I get one?
Hey Bam Bam! Amazon has them from time to time, eBay and if you want to order a bunch I'd say order directly from Vector. Vector has a minimum purchase limit so if you and a few friends want one then that would probably be the best solution.
Thanks for the video. Give a scratch on the chin to Rascal from me.
Thanks @smokeyvalley1304! Unfortunately Rascal passed away in 2020. He always wanted to be apart of my videos and I'm super grateful that we had that time together! Thanks for the comment!
They make a plastic gasket seal with sealed door for filling so you don't have to take it off to fill. Actually works well.
Hey Jimmie! Are you by chance talking about these? (amzn.to/2L36xtI) If so I know KZhead user cuterlylover is doing some test right now with them. I'm looking forward to seeing the results!
You have to fill butane lighters with the can upside down
Yep, I am aware. Wasn’t when we shot the video though.
How has it held up over time?
Hey Gavin! It’s been great. I haven’t had an issue with it. My only complaint is there isn’t a good way to tell how much butane is inside the insert.
Ben Geldreich thank you for the reply! Good to know
Did you break your pinkie finger at some point?
Hey Chris!! Good eye!! I actually dislocated my pinkie finger twice when I was a child. The ligaments got over stretched and as a result my that finger has a wider range of motion.
Does it still make the “Zippo click” when you open it?
Yep, it sure does!
@@BenGeldreich Thank you so much for your response. I didn’t think that you would respond.
@@Definitely.KZhead I do my best to always respond!
@@BenGeldreich I have a question. Is the insert durable? I have heard many people say that it is a waste of money because it is prone to breaking.
I bought mine a long time ago and it’s still working. That said I know Vector released a new version. I don’t have much experience with that version.
Hey Ben show us 2 ways 2 light it
Hey Robert! I’m not sure I follow? You light it the same way you light a zippo? Are you asking for tricks?
Ben the other videos I'm seeing one this particular insert is there any other ways to light the insert ps if you can do a tip video
Hey Robert, You light this particular insert the same way you would light a Zippo. Some of the other inserts torch style and typically with those you push a button on the side and that action release fuel and sparks the flint to light the fuel. Search for Zippo torch insert to see how those work. If you wanna try and light the lighter in other ways, I'd suggest searching for Zippo lighting tricks as some people are very good at Zippo tricks. Hope that helps!
i really want one of these inserts but there sold out everywhere and on the official website you have to spen a minimum of 30 dollars and i dont have that money lol. can anyone please help me out or does anyone have one i can buy from them?
Thanks for sharing!
Dont....they are a fire hazard. You can't even fill them up correctly the spit butane everywhere
Hey Alejandro! You might be using the wrong fuel tip adapter for the Thunderbird! Some butane fuel canisters come with an adapter that is needed for different lighters. The same thing happened to me until I found the right adapter. Also it doesn’t take too long to fill the lighter so you may also be overfilling it. All that said it would be easier if Vector would have designed a more translucent fuel container so one could see when it’s full.
@@BenGeldreich yea I threw it away. There is something clearly wrong with the insert I bought.
Sorry to hear that!
The hollow rivet is on the striker not the flipper.
Thanks neo71665!!
i like mine just for heatshrink
Excuse my ignorance, what exactly do you mean by heat shrink?
@@BenGeldreich heat shrink tubing
@@AdrenalineRushMX LOL ... I wondered if that's what you meant. I too have used my Zippo many times for that!
So if it gets cold we good
Hey ClawHeHeNum!! I guess that depends on how cold. When originally researching these inserts I came across a KZhead video where someone tested a zippo with and without butane in very cold conditions. I’ll try to find it and post a follow up link once I do.
Hey ClawHeHeNum! Here's the link kzhead.info/sun/hbWTidOKi4yDoJE/bejne.html. Hope this helps!
Could i have the old fuel insert?
No, I’m keeping it. If something happens to the case I’ll need it to send it in for repairs. If you need one they do sell just the inserts.
@@BenGeldreich i want a fuel insert. Not gas insert
@@Francesca456 Yes I got that. I'm keeping mine as I need it for warranty reasons. You can buy just the fuel inserts from zippo and I've seen them on amazon.
Is it still windnproof?
Hey Bobby! Vector claims it’s Wind Resistant on the package. That said I’ve been camping with it in some very high winds and haven’t had any issue lighting it for the length of time I’ve needed it. I haven’t used it as a torch in the wind or anything were the lighter is left on for more than a minute.
Awesome thank you, I will definitely get one asap. Thanks for the feedback.
Does this evaporate
I haven't noticed any evaporation! If there is any it'd be a very very slow process. I filled my lighter up at the end of the summer in 2019 and haven't needed to fill it up since. I use it more in the summer when camping so I've been quite surprised with the length I can get out if it. Hope this helps!
why do you need to pull the cam down before closing the zippo?
Hey SexyBeast! I was demonstrating how the butane is released while using the Vector Thunderbird insert. When one first inserts the Thunderbird into a Zippo case, one will need to put the cam down just like you would with a official zippo insert. If for some odd reason you wanted the Zippo to be open without a flame, then simply know that butane is leaking out when the cam is open. Hope that helps!
Gas leackage from zippo cover .how to solve it?
With a butane insert or simply the normal zippo insert?
I can’t find these on Amazon anymore
Hey Eric! Yes they been MIA for a while. I think the only place to get the soft flame version is directly from Vector. Only problem with that is they have a minimum spend so you may need to buy fuel or a couple lighter inserts. :(
Bro use zippo brand butane nothing less it’s a little pricey but honestly you can tell a difference
Hey Braiden! Thanks for the suggestion! That’s my plan, once the butane I have is empty.
Anything 5x refined
It's a sham zippo could not do this in metal. Well it keeps the fluid unevaporate in normal zippo u have to keep the lighter vertical all the time or else it evaporates
Hey Devesh! Yes I thought it odd that Zippo still hasn't created a way to keep there fuel from evaporating so quickly. This is exactly why I purchased a Thunderbird Vector soft flame insert. I wanted to keep the Zippo appearing original but not run out of fuel so often. I haven't filled the zippo up for 4 months now!
Rusty Shackleford they do? Do you have a link. I can’t find any info on it.
Rusty Shackleford oh right I new that. They don’t make a soft flame version like the one i have. I don’t like the jet flames. I’d prefer it to look like an original zippo as much as I can.
Rusty Shackleford I’m not sure where vector makes their inserts. It may also be China.
Let us know how it works out if you end up getting a thunderbird! Happy Holidays!
🔥🔥 I live in india and this Thunderbird butane insert is not available in here. I will be happy to pay, if anyone of you brothers can get me the Thunderbird butane insert.
How much would you be willing to pay?
is it safe for cigars?
Hey Leonard!! I would suggest using a higher end butane if using the Thunderbird to smoke with. Maybe butane from Zippo or Vector? I’ll put a couple butane links in the description of the video for reference. Other than that I don’t see why you couldn’t use it with cigars. That’s said, I don’t smoke so maybe someone who does can add there two cents. :)
@@BenGeldreich Thank you so much, Do they make this same product for the "slim" line too?
Hey Leonard! I had to do a bit of digging and only found this youtube video kzhead.info/sun/jcmeXdCkpYBpgnk/bejne.html of someone using one. In the comments, the user mentioned that he purchased it from eBay. I did a quick search on eBay but couldn't find anything. Let me know if you find anything!
I use a Zippo insert that makes it a torch lighter for cigars. I bought mine from cigars international for maybe $10, it's my to-go cigar lighter.
Why don't the zippo come with the new fuel insert 🙈🙉🙊
Zippo does make butane inserts now but none like the soft flame version that thunderbird makes. Maybe one day!
How much do Brass ones cost???
They can range from $12 - $18 USD. I bought mine here ... @t
Ben Geldreich Oh I live in Switzerland 😬 by the way I think I messed up a expensive Gas Lighter by trying to put Lighter Fuel in it and now it doesn’t even spark even more 😬😬😬😬😬 Can you please help me ??
Hey The Grind Don’t Stop! What kind of lighter? Not sure if I’ll be much. If it were me I’d look at the manufacturers warranty and maybe they will repair it for you.
Ben Geldreich it says Dupond on it and it’s old I don’t have any sort of bill or warranty
@@N54_is Oh nice ... I like those old Gatsby lighters. Assuming it's like the one in this video? kzhead.info/sun/psdwiq6KoqNjlY0/bejne.html I'm sure like a Zippo these lighters can be taken apart and cleaned but I have no experience in that. My suggestion would be to search the web for a way to tear down the lighter so you can empty all the fuel out and try again. Good Luck!!
How about the flint? How to change it?
Hey Friedo!! Thanks for the comment. The flint can totally be changed and the procedure is the exact same as a zippo. There are a lot of how to change the flint on a zippo style videos out there on KZhead. Enjoy the day!
I'm sure that you have noticed by now that these Thunderbird inserts leak out all of their butane when you use them inside of a Zippo shell?
Hey T.Dubya! Nope ... I have had the opposite experience. Haven't had to fill the Thunderbird up in over a year, and it still has plenty of butane. Do you have the same model as me aka the soft flame?
@@BenGeldreich - Yes, I have 4 of them. And I've tried them on 5 different types of Zippo lighters. My problem is with the on/off lever on the Thunderbird and the loose fit into the Zippo shell. Maybe your type of Zippo is a tighter fit than any of mine?
I've not had that issue either and I own 2 of these. Since I only carry a zippo not necessarily for smoking it's been more than a few months and still lights retains fuel fine? Still using the butane from the first fill 🤷🏻♂️
I can no longer find this on amazon
Hey ReatedSphinx3, Yeah it appears so. I know when I tried to buy one for a friend it said unavailable as Vector was out of stock, once they got stock back in it took another couple weeks before third party companies were selling them again. You can still purchase them directly from vector [ vectorkgm.com/official/thunderbird-lighter/ ] but I believe Vector has a minimum purchase order, which can suck if you only want one insert!
you can get zippo brand butane inserts now
Hey@@todd6378! I was happy to hear that Zippo offered butane inserts, however I'd be happier if they sold a soft flame version to match the stock Zippo insert. I'm not a fan of holding the button down type action of torch or electric lighters. Do you own a Zippo butane insert?
@@BenGeldreich not yet but I plan to get the single torch. Ive had a different brand arc lighter before and it was almost useless for lighting cigarettes, so I wont be getting that one.
I’ve just got this and right away the insert has got stuck and won’t come out which is pretty damn annoying
What model of Zippo are you using? The older models of the Thunderbird insert were a tad larger and I read of many people having this problem. I haven't heard of anyone having this problem with the new Thunderbird inserts.
@@BenGeldreich Just a standard classic street chrome zippo. The insert was brand new. I had to use some WD40 and a pliers to get it out eventually.
Oh wow. I wonder if Vector changed their design! I haven’t heard of anyone having to do that since Thunderbird version 1
You can electroplated your new insert too. It's not that hard.
It’s not all metal though the container that holds the butane is hard plastic so I would assume disassembly would be needed.
Привет,сколько стоит такой инсерт????
Cost me $15 usd from Amazon, but they aren't always available so you'll have to check back from time to time. Currently this is the closest one I can find on Amazon. amzn.to/2Vu8SBM
i use methanol fluid now lol, no more awful smell in my cigarette
I can't really comment as I don't smoke and so don't have any experience with the awful smell, but I have heard many people complain about it.