The History of the Split Pea Lighter
by Winston Hughes on 01/09/14
Tiny and rugged, the Split Pea lighter is the perfect blend of masculinity and utility. Many people are familiar with its slightly less diminutive older brother, the Peanut lighter. Both are extremely small, water-resistant, and sturdy: perfect for a survival kit or everyday use.
The Peanut lighter made a splash among outdoorsy men when it was introduced. Made of heavy duty metal, the Peanut lighter weighs less than twenty grams and is just under an inch and a half long. However, the Split Pea lighter shows even more promise than its predecessor. The smallest production lighter in the world, it weighs in at 14.3 grams and is 0.5 by 1.3 inches in size. Like the Peanut lighter, it is made of copper, titanium, or stainless steel. In addition, it is water resistant and will be functional in all but the most extreme water events.
Once this lighter was introduced, sales took off. The Split Pea lighter quickly became a popular accessory among survivalists and urban lovers of upscale gear. It is small enough to be carried on a key chain and takes up almost no space in an emergency kit. Much of its popularity stems from its convenience; it is easy to fill, uses standard lighter fluid, and suffers few of the fluid evaporation issues that seem to plague other metal lighters due to an o-ring. The screw top makes it incredibly portable and perfect for a pocket or backpack, although it can also be hung on a key ring. In addition, the Split Pea lighter has a flat bottom so that it can be used as a candle in an emergency.
The Split Pea and Peanut lighters have been made exclusively by a military contractor since their introduction. The Split Pea in particular is a favorite among hunters and young urban gear collectors. This has made it somewhat difficult to find, especially for the customer who prefers a certain type of metal, but it is worth the trouble. The Split Pea lighter's distinctive shape and size combined with its usefulness make it a product worth buying.