Zippo vs Thunderbird Butane Lighter Insert

[@kylelangston6119]

I'm sorry for your loss. I lost my mother and stepfather 4 years ago. Keep your head held high man. We love you.

[@HaiTran]

Thank you!

[@BuffaloNickel9]

You're awesome Kyle! Kind Words

[@PrashantKhanolkarUSA]

God bless your dad's soul. Nice of you to hold on to his memory with his Zippo lighter, I am sure it is priceless for you. Why wouldn't it be. Nice.

[@HaiTran]

It’s one of those things that I carry around even though it hardly ever gets used. Thanks for watching!

[@smellyerbs8653]

Hai Tran , if I get the slim shell by zippo, will a regular zippo insert fit it? This is what it’s labeled as, “Zippo Slim High Polish Chrome Pocket Lighter” thanks I’d appreciate it

[@HaiTran]

The two are different sizes.

[@smellyerbs8653]

Hai Tran thanks

[@AutoSearPin]

No joke, I was really going to buy a thunderbird just because it was cheaper. The honest review helped a LOT. Just ordered the zippo, thank you so much, god bless your dads soul.🌹

[@HaiTran]

Thanks a lot brother. Hope you enjoy the insert!

[@rob4227wtd]

A well done review, very clear, unbiased, informative, and covered everything. A great Zippo story, respect to your Dad.

[@HaiTran]

Thanks for watching!

[@donettatrump2025]

@@HaiTran any test of the piezo ignitions failure rate? Thx, 😊 informative video, was expecting to waste 6 mins but instead am engaged.

[@HaiTran]

Considering that piezo ignitions are designed to last the life of a product and likely beyond, I have no intention of activating my lighters until one fails. If it happens to fail that's more of a fluke and likely warrants a warranty claim.

[@whiskymedic]

I had the thunderbird for 6 years before it gave up the ghost. I replaced it with the newly available zippo insert which has given me tons of problems. After watching your video I adjusted my igniter to match the position in yours and it works perfectly now. I guess it just came out of the factory bent. Now it lights every time reliably and works at lower settings. I agree with you. The fitment is much better than the thunderbird and I can adjust either with my thumbnail. Overall I prefer the zippo now. Thanks for the close up views!

[@HaiTran]

Hopefully the Zippo will last you a long time 👍

[@kellywilliams9586]

This was a very good review and helped me decide which one to purchase. More than anything I liked the fact that you honor your father by using his zippo case. Just like you, my father always used a zippo. If I can locate his old case I will probably use it.

[@HaiTran]

I’m very glad that I was able to save my dad’s Zippos since it was so often associated with him. Thanks a lot for watching!

[@GadgetsGearCoffee]

I got the thunderbird, single yellow flame for my zippo (TH-INSERT-G), and it works great it doesn't come out at all and it lasts forever and is so easy to refill! What I like about the Thunderbird is that I can see the amount of butane in there is in there cuz the bottom is somewhat see through so I can see the liquid in there

[@HaiTran]

Glad it’s working out for you 👍🏽

[@stickytourbus]

We came for the inserts. We leave with thoughts of your father. Because of the way you honor his memory. Such a loving gesture has moved our hearts. You’re a pretty cool dude. 👍 “Cuộc sống là một bến đỗ tạm thời, cái chết là hành trình trở về nhà.”

[@HaiTran]

Cảm ơn rất nhiều!

[@epthproduction6052]

I like the stock fuel insert it's more classy in my opinion :)

[@HaiTran]

Whatever works for you 👍🏽

[@RR9sf]

Yup that has such a badass feel to it, but butane torch flame is more practical for everyday use (for non smokers)

[@kylelangston6119]

The review we all needed. thanks so much! Gained a subscriber 🤙

[@HaiTran]

Thanks for the support!

[@RayTeerlink]

Love the way you honor your father.

[@HaiTran]

Thank you 👍🏽

[@ndane2]

New vector inserts are transparent, allow you to see fuel amount which is better in my opinion

[@HaiTran]

Whatever works for you 👍🏽

[@cemetery895]

I have the Zippo soft flame butane insert, it is probably the best lighter I have and it is the only one I can use to get quality smoke. I have never had a Thunderbird ever since all the good ones just aren't on amazon.

[@HaiTran]

Glad it's working out for you 👍🏽

[@danwijangco8646]

I bought a Z-plus dual torch insert back 7 years ago used it everyday. I gave it to a friend after I purchased a zippo dual torch insert thinking I was upgrading. I literally hate this thing compared to the Z-plus. I cannot tell how much butane is in it and it lasts for about 6 lights and then it just won't stay lit. I use my lighter daily for solder and heat shrink on wiring so when I'm trying to butt connect two wires together and I'm out of butane it's incredibly annoying I want to love it but I don't I'm going to be going back to the Z-plus insert. Great review btw, thank you!

[@HaiTran]

Hopefully, going back will work out for you 👍🏽

[@waddac2]

Great review. I have ordered the single burner butane Zippo insert but waiting for a delay in arrival. Your video makes me feel good as other reviews of Zippo butane complain it does not work.

[@HaiTran]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@glenn2595]

Thanks for the review. I am disappointed that Zippo didn't include a flint-wheel design in their line up. The piezo ignition is nice as the gas doesn't escape until you push it, again like a BIC, but I want the nostalgic striker. There's nothing wrong with the plastic case, all BICs use plastic, however I prefer the metal case because a standard Zippo case is metal. I've looked at others but something to be said about the Thunderbirds is they fill-up easily without spray. I don't think Zippo is going to make a flint-wheel, so I'm going to get the Thunderbird for every day carry.

[@HaiTran]

Hope you like it 👍🏽

[@josehernandoch6431]

Ya hay zippo gas butano con pedernal

[@SirSnowman]

Every Day Carry: Jetflame butan insert, nothing evaporates and it works At Partys: I use the classic fuel insert. The clicksound, the sparks, the flame and the smell... that sometimes attracts one or two glances :D

[@HaiTran]

Whatever works 👍🏽

[@bloodbushcraft2467]

I always carry a bic but I love zippos I just hate constantly re filling when I do use it often.

[@HaiTran]

Whatever works 👍🏽

[@annekedebruyn7797]

I went with the signle Zippo tho I wished it had a small window to let you see how much gas is in it still.

[@HaiTran]

It is what it is 👍🏽

[@81BOOKS]

As you pointed out Zippo has a much better fit and finish. Great video

[@HaiTran]

Thank you!

[@jimaltair1854]

Excellent comparison. Thanks.

[@HaiTran]

You're welcome!

[@arifyigitaydn3020]

bro I was here for a review not to cry at the sentimentality of your lighter 😢

[@HaiTran]

All good, thank you 👍🏽

[@tariqkamil7853]

It’s your reason why u carry the zippo, I can’t think of a better reason, and the butane option “allows” for peace of mind when u visit ur dad

[@HaiTran]

Thank you!

[@cryptoknight3009]

Hi is there an insert where you can see how much fuel/gas their is

[@HaiTran]

The Thunderbird to a degree.

[@WhisperExtreme]

How's the thunderbird holding today? The gas lasts long?

[@HaiTran]

Like I said in the video, I don't use a lighter often so mine is holding up just fine.

[@AbyssalTentacle]

Plus , butane just burns so much cleaner

[@HaiTran]

True 👍🏽

[@AlexeyDnepr]

Is the single torch available in brass color?

[@HaiTran]

You would check the manufacturer’s website.

[@ketchupwitfriesplz7545]

Thank you for your video. 🕊️

[@HaiTran]

Thanks for watching!

[@lucalone]

can you use the zippo upside down? the first zippo butane lighter called zippo blu couldn't do it ! the flame turned off when you switched the lighter

[@HaiTran]

I actually just gave away my Zippo insert to someone who wanted it and haven't picked up another yet so can't test it out for you. Hopefully, someone else will be able to answer this.

[@fujiwara4580]

yo, mine arrived yesterday and you can for a second, after that it turns off.

[@williamcampbell9859]

For other readers (I'm sure lucalone made their choice by now) mine works fine upside down.

[@midori195]

that origami crane case is awsum 😊

[@HaiTran]

Definitely one of my favorites 👍🏽

[@change5190]

I absolutely love the Thunderbird because I can see exactly how much fuel I have left. I don't want to be caught out and accidentally think I have more fuel than I actually do. I always make sure it is filled before I store it away, but I might forget one day.. and that's the day I hope I don't absolutely need it to light.

[@HaiTran]

Sound reasoning 👍🏽

[@greekveteran2715]

On the other hand, you have to refil your lighter only after it completely runs out of fuel and you also have to bleed out, even the very last drop of gas, before you refill your lighter again. At least, that's how I was tought to do it, I'm no expert.

[@MrJames_Bondage]

They need to make a soft flame

[@HaiTran]

Something to tell the manufacturer.

[@noyolabassist]

Thunderbird makes a soft flame and it’s excellent

[@HazzerJ]

Hi Hai Tran, thanks for the video - I was looking for a review on these Zippo butane inserts and off the back of your video I purchased the Zippo (single torch all the way for me). Unfortunately, the insert rattles. It is clearly coming from inside the body and not the exterior, and only really rattles if you shake it up and down (not side to side). It renders it almost useless truth be told, because one wonderful aspect of the Zippo is the unmistakable sound it makes opening and closing and that is spoiled by this rattle! So my question is, does yours make a rattle or have I likely received a faulty one? Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks again for the video!

[@HaiTran]

That’s too bad to hear but to answer your question, mine does not rattle.

[@martinalex0331]

Hi there. I have bought both the single and double torch versions of the butane insert. Had same issue.. Solved it by simply using aluminium foil for cooking. Just wrap a small piece around the bottom. Does the job brilliantly!

[@doejon9424]

Huh ? I'm curious why rattling would render it useless ?? Unless it's an OCD thing ? Of course there's a small amount of rattling on ALL of them but it doesn't exactly have a negative effect the quality or performance. The unit itself has some rattle.. and if it's rattling in your Zippo case.. you need to wrap the butane insert once with tape or aluminum foil like previously said. OR bend the case inward with pliers or a vise so the case fits snug against the butane insert.

[@orion314]

do you know if there are any issues with fitting the thunderbird into an armor zippo case?

[@HaiTran]

I’ve never tried that so can’t guarantee anything. However, I can only assume that there is a good chance of proper fitment.

[@TangoDown229]

I've encountered an issue, well I will in a week or so. I've ordered a Thyrm PyroVault Lighter case for Zippo inserts BUT here's the rub, the Vector Thunderbird inserts like the butane dual jet won't work in them. Don't get me wrong, the insert will fit just fine BUT the mechanism that allows it to function won't. You see, the "clicker" on the hinge side is what opens the fuel line to allow fuel to flow to the jets. The inside of the Thyrm PyroVault Lighter case does not have the metal piece to cause the "clicker" to open as the top opens. So, I'm now searching for a modern butane insert, preferable a dual jet or even a single jet insert that will work in this new case. According to what I've read, there are ones that will work but they never told which ones. Anyone have any input?

[@HaiTran]

If you’re at the point where you’re buying an aftermarket case and an aftermarket insert, I personally do see the point in trying to look at Zippo stuff since you’re already so far away from a Zippo. Just buy a dedicated tactical lighter that’s going to be more fail proof that you can depend your life on.

[@Creelyblades]

Nice review, one advantage you didn't' mention is that the plastic housing allows you to see the fuel level

[@HaiTran]

That’s because it’s barely visible. The plastic is pretty cloudy. I didn’t find it to be an advantage.

[@GamesCooky]

Very cool that they made a butane version. If i'm going to be a little picky, then i'd say it's a shame that they decided to fill in the holes on the chimney of the lighter. It reminds me of when car manufacturers design cars with fake vents.

[@HaiTran]

I believe all the butane insert designs that I’ve seen have fake chimney holes so it may just be a required thing.

[@khiemluong-c6f]

I love your setup

[@HaiTran]

Thank you!

[@ralphmiyashiro9816]

What about the sounds the insert makes when you open and close the lighter? That iconic sound is what makes a Zippo so attractive. That sound that sound...

[@ralphmiyashiro9816]

By the way, great review.

[@HaiTran]

The clicks can be heard from both in the video when I demonstrated putting them in the case.

[@jeramybearamy8539]

Quick fix for the thunderbird movement problem: I cut two small pieces of gaff tape and placed them on top of each other and then placed them onto the thunderbird tank. I don't like that I have to do this and have ordered the Zippo insert now that I've learned it's available. Not a smoker, I just want a butane lighter that hasn't lost all of it's fuel when I go to use it. Do you know if Zippo has changed the design of the insert that comes with its lighters? Seems that might be a good idea.

[@HaiTran]

Changed their design how?

[@jeramybearamy8539]

@@HaiTran From the "add fuel to cotton material" to an enclosed butane tank. From my research it seems it's still the old school insert.

[@HaiTran]

I doubt they'll ever include an enclosed tank as the de facto. The current insert design IS the Zippo for the most part. That's why there is now an insert available for those who want something different. Most people don't buy Zippos because they are best lighters but simply for the design and the fact that it is a Zippo.

[@ThisIsMeArnold]

Hello. There isn't any information about this online - are you able to blow out the flame jets of the Zippo buthane version?

[@HaiTran]

With enough wind, the flame jets of either will go out.

[@ThisIsMeArnold]

@@HaiTran It's different than a soft buthane flame, no? They look and sound like they would be quite resistant to it.

[@HaiTran]

A torch flame is very different from a soft flame. You would think the torch flame would be more resistant to wind but it doesn't provide much of an advantage.

[@Mike1614YT]

cant figure out why Zippo didn't start with the soft flame

[@HaiTran]

That would be a question to ask Zippo.

[@Mike1614YT]

@@HaiTran Ha, I won't ask. Zippo is a good company and makes a great classic lighter, but their attempt to make a butane lighter, the Zippo Blue was a flop, the lighter is pretty bad IMHO. They took a long time to get around to making their own insert. but at least they've gotten started.

[@HaiTran]

I suppose when you're essentially THE lighter company, you can move as fast as you want.

[@kylegwyn]

I’m wondering if I’m there’s something wrong with my zippo butane insert. It’s the double flame butane. it will warm and light a single cigar, and then next time I use it (within a day or so) it won’t light.. I’ll go to refill it and it acts up, barely flames, and (seemingly) needs to be refilled.. is this normal?? I weighed it fully bled (about 48g) then after filling (doesn’t seem to fill beyond 49g)

[@HaiTran]

It’s hard to think that that would be normal. Perhaps you should contact the manufacturer about a warranty.

[@kylegwyn]

@@HaiTran That's what I'm thinking. Seemed super weird, I just couldn't really find any info regarding similar issues. I'll probably just order another to compare and send the original back if it turns out it's just faulty.. What I am ALSO considering is that I've been keeping it in the garage, and it's been fairly cold, like high 30's~ I know butane can be temperamental and pressure drops with low temps.. That could potentially be the issue. Tested it just now, didn't work. 10 minutes later 'm in the house, its room temp, sparked up just fine....

[@HaiTran]

That preliminary test does seem to imply something but you never know.

[@rafaeltorre1643]

@@kylegwyn butane is liquid under pressure. If it’s cold of course it wont light. Theres very low pressure. Try heating up your insert hot then try it. It will be under extreme pressure and be forcing its way out. Look up clipper lighter big flame. You’ll see exactly how butane works.

[@AlfredFJones1776]

Also the inserts are good for cigar smokers.

[@HaiTran]

There are specific inserts for cigar smokers.

[@In4Th3Kill]

Awesome review

[@HaiTran]

Thank you!

[@paulbaird8798]

Standard Zippo is no use for lighting cigars. The butane torch is better suited.

[@HaiTran]

👍

[@MsMiguelrl]

Hello, I'm thinking of buying, but I'm undecided between the single and the double.. What do you recommend?

[@HaiTran]

The double just outputs more fire. They're identical in every other way.

[@MsMiguelrl]

@@HaiTran My doubt goes through the duration of the gas. I do not smoke, I want the insert to edc, I do not know if it will have advantage to have a lighter more powerful but losing durability. Do not know what to do xD

[@HaiTran]

If anything, they're pretty cheap so just buy both.

[@bianchivendingportugal3567]

Hello Hai, thanks for the video. I have one Zippo double flame, and can you help me with the right procedure of refill? As it doesn't have the level I never now if it's already refilled or not....Thanks in advance! Regards, Alexandre Peres

[@HaiTran]

The official Zippo KZbin channel has an instructional video for this that you may want to watch as it's from the primary source.

[@MlleVB]

How long does the zippo butane double torch last?

[@HaiTran]

This depends on a lot of variables.

[@arun300]

I can’t get the case ?

[@HaiTran]

I don’t know, can’t you?

[@DopeFiend]

Anyone selling these thunderbirds in Europe?

[@iceman3577]

does it fit on 1941 model ?

[@HaiTran]

I haven’t tried. I only know that the insert will fit anything that fits the current Zippo gas inserts.

[@MakroPoskoci]

I have a single-torch butane insert, and it fits the 1941 Zippo replica perfectly. ;-)

[@martinalex0331]

@@MakroPoskoci Thank you very much. I was wondering same thing.

[@BobPaulson200]

Very good review: I am curious about the long term results. I've heard the Zippo insert doesn't last long, and about a week ago I went to the single burner. I will say I've had to refill the dang thing every other day almost, and I only use it four or five times a day. For those commenting about wanting to have a Zippo butane that retains the flint from 05 to 16 they made the Zippo blu that had that. I have a first run one, and it's hinky at best and that's why I never took to using it full time. But you can still find them here and there online.

[@HaiTran]

Mine still works as I expect it to 👍🏽

[@doejon9424]

Not gonna lie.. I thought this insert was gimmicky (all butane torches seem to have ignition failures after using them regularly) but mine hasn't failed yet. 6-7 months later.. the only "failure in ignition" has been when it's low/out of butane. Plus.. these butane inserts carry Zippo's warranty. They are surprisingly great quality. No loose button. Nice 1 inch flame on low. If you already bought a $20 Zippo.. I think $17ish for the butane insert is a way better deal than buying some $10- 15 torch that's going to stop having reliable ignitions with use. It's so annoying having a butane lighter.. that's clearly full of fluid.. but it takes 4 or 5 clicks to get a flame. Zippo is definitely on point with these. My only complaint is the button should have some more grippy / aggressive jimping. It's kinda rounded off. That's just a minor complaint. I put two tiny pieces of skateboard grip tape on mine & it's perfect for me now.

[@cthulu67]

I have the single torch Insert , but I think that is defective , I followed up all the instructions to fill it and it’s a little bit difficult to obtain the flame each time that I fill it , are you facing the same situation ??

[@HaiTran]

I am not. I just filled it and that's about it. I didn't even bother with the instructions since I figured they all filled the same way.

[@bluejay31]

Some time it can have a air bubble in the tank look up purge butane purge video and I keep it in my pocket the warmer it is the easier it is to light it have a nice day :)

[@rafaeltorre1643]

@@bluejay31 Butane is a gas. There is no gas with air bubbles. There is only air with gas in smaller or larger quantities. Gas comes out under pressure, there is no air bubbles.

[@troybyrne4427]

How long does the gas last after filling

[@HaiTran]

This depends on a lot of variables.

[@cscheatum]

I love my zippo butane insert.

[@HaiTran]

Good to hear that!

[@-Anthracite]

Which few weeks are you talking about i replaced the rayons with pieces of makeup removal pads to the point that there is no spot of air found inside brim that thing and it barely lasts 10 days 😂😂

[@HaiTran]

I can barely make out what you’re trying to say but I believe that you’re saying you get 10 days with your original Zippo insert? If so, don’t you think that 10 days is coming real close to 14 days aka 2 weeks aka a few weeks?

[@AlexT-md9df]

Zippo blows the thunderbird insert out of the water My thunderbird insert stopped working after about 10 uses, I sent it back for warranty and they just mailed it back and didn’t even open the envelope.

[@HaiTran]

Whatever works for you 👍🏽

[@AbyssalTentacle]

if only zippo made a soft flame insert too , such a miss

[@HaiTran]

If enough people demand it then perhaps they will supply it.

[@ulwimi_oluninzi]

@Hai Tran I hope they make it soon

[@escapetherace1943]

Thunderbird..... better warranty also mine's worked 8 years also it doesn't slide up when you use it, never has. If yours does it's not a problem, add a piece of tape

[@HaiTran]

Whatever works for you 👍🏽

[@tyronethechef4606]

Liked the story about your dad and agree with the official zippo gear sentiment, why use a zippo design if its not really zippo

[@HaiTran]

It made sense in the past when Zippo didn't make such a thing but now that they do, it only makes sense to buy the Zippo branded insert. Especially when it's a good bit cheaper!

[@tactical2010]

Hi thanks for the simple clear review. I followed your link to amazon and purchase the single torch zippo. My respect to your dad. Take care 🇺🇸🔥🚀

[@HaiTran]

Thanks a lot for the support!

[@spectruum]

Wait, zippo has 2 year warranty, and thunderbird has a lifetime? Wot??

[@HaiTran]

That was the case at the time of recording this video.

[@spectruum]

@@HaiTran I see. Good to know it has changed

[@eadgbe6215]

Is my earphone broken or this got no sound?

[@HaiTran]

That would be you.

[@eadgbe6215]

@@HaiTran bro i figured

[@eadgbe6215]

@@HaiTran thanks cuh

[@HaiTran]

All good.

[@Capozzi3]

Only thing i dont like about the zippo is taht you cant see how much fuel you have :/

[@HaiTran]

Give and take.

[@offroadguygavin6074]

I use it for fire works and the original one runs out in the 2 hours

[@HaiTran]

If you’re using the lighter a lot then switching to butane likely won’t help decrease fuel consumption.