Choosing a permanent match lighter—also known as an infinite or forever lighter—can be tough with so many models out there. Here’s your all-in-one guide to the best permanent matches, how they work, pros and cons, and maintenance tips.
What Is a Permanent Match Lighter?
A permanent match typically features:
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Metal fuel reservoir filled with lighter fluid
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Wick/tube “matchstick” that, when struck against a flint strip, ignites
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An overall durable, pocket-sized design
These tools combine the convenience of a lighter and the tactile feel of striking a match—ideal for camping or survival kits.
Best Permanent Match Reviews
1. Throne Permanent Match Lighter
The Throne Permanent Match Lighter combines classic vintage charm with practical modern design. Engineered for durability and thousands of reliable ignitions, this refillable lighter is ideal for outdoor adventures, emergencies, or daily use. It features Korex electromatch technology, functioning as both a trench-style lighter and a reusable fire starter.
Crafted for sustainability, it uses standard lighter fluid (not included) and eliminates the need for disposable matches, making it both eco-friendly and cost-effective. Its compact keychain design ensures it’s always within reach, while the antique aesthetic adds stylish flair.
Whether you’re camping, hiking, or gifting a thoughtful tool to a loved one, the Throne lighter is a smart, rugged, and classy choice for anyone who appreciates form and function.
2. SOMGEM Permanent Match Keychain 2 Pack
The SOMGEM Permanent Match Keychain is a compact and reliable fire starter designed for outdoor survival and emergency preparedness. Made from durable nickel alloy, its ultra-mini size makes it highly portable—perfect for attaching to your keys, slipping into your pocket, or clipping to your backpack.
This reusable match features a refillable kerosene tank and a high-quality flint striker, capable of enduring up to 10,000 strikes. Its unibody waterproof design includes an improved seal and larger fluid reservoir, offering consistent ignition even in wet or cold environments.
Whether you’re camping, hiking, or preparing for emergencies, this lighter offers a simple and effective way to start a fire. It’s a great gift for outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists alike.
3. Laicengo Vintage 2 in 1 Permanent Match Lighter
The Laicengo Vintage Lighter stands out with its 2-in-1 ignition system, allowing you to light it using either a traditional flint wheel or a clever match-style pull rod. This creative design makes it both functional and fun to use, perfect for lighting up a campfire, BBQ, or pipe.
Crafted from high-quality alloy with a vintage knurled finish, this trench lighter blends rugged durability with old-school charm. Compact and reliable, it’s great for outdoor adventures or as part of your everyday carry.
It’s also a unique gift idea for men, dads, and smokers—ideal for birthdays, holidays, or Father’s Day. While fuel is not included, its reusable, kerosene-based system ensures long-term use. Backed by responsive customer support, the Laicengo lighter is a stylish, practical pick in the permanent match category.
5. BIASTNR Permanent Match Lighter
Pros & Cons
Pros:
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Reliable in rain and wind
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Refillable and reusable
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Compact and easy to carry
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Versatile with added tools in some models
Cons:
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Fluid can evaporate or leak—O-rings degrade
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Some models are “gimmicky” and unreliable
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Traditionally two-handed operation, not ideal for quick needs
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Requires maintenance: wick/flint replacement, fluid refills
How to Use & Maintain
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Fill reservoir ~¾ with naphtha-based lighter fluid—don’t overfill
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Ignite by striking the metal matchstick against the flint strip
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Let it burn briefly, then extinguish, soak in fluid, and repeat as needed
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Replace wick/flint as they wear
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Store upright and check O-rings to prevent leakage
Are They Practical?
Opinions vary:
“Great party gimmick… not reliable.”
“Tricky to light… fluid leaks.”
“Fun novelty, but a BIC lighter is better backup.”
“Fun for camping, but wick and fluid issues.”
In short: They’re neat gadgets—but not foolproof. Best suited as secondary options in your fire-starting kit.
Buying guide
What to Look for in a Permanent Match Before Buying It?
When choosing the best permanent match for survival or outdoor use, it’s important to consider a few key features to ensure reliability, durability, and ease of use:
1. Material Quality
Since permanent matches are often used in emergency or harsh environments, durability is essential. Look for models made from stainless steel and ABS plastic, as these materials offer resistance to wear, corrosion, and impact—perfect for rugged outdoor conditions.
2. Waterproof Design
A reliable permanent match should work even in wet or cold conditions. Whether you’re camping, hiking, fishing, or facing unexpected weather, waterproof construction ensures that your match will ignite when you need it most. Always verify the waterproof feature and check user reviews for real-world performance.
3. Strike Capacity
Durability isn’t just about the outer shell. Make sure the match has a high strike count—at least 10,000 to 15,000 strikes. A permanent match with a premium magnesium core striker can serve you for years, earning its reputation as a “forever” or “never-ending” match.
4. Portability & Convenience
Choose a compact, easy-to-carry design that can attach to your keychain, belt loop, or backpack, or fit snugly in your survival kit. Lightweight, pocket-sized models are ideal for both daily carry and emergency use, ensuring you always have a fire source at hand.
Taking these factors into account will help you choose a permanent match that’s dependable, long-lasting, and ready for any adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a permanent match lighter?
A permanent match lighter, also known as a forever match or eternal match, is a reusable fire starter tool that typically combines a flint striker and a wick-soaked metal rod inside a small fuel reservoir. When struck, the flint produces sparks that ignite the fuel-soaked wick, producing a flame similar to a matchstick.
2. How do you use a permanent match lighter?
To use a permanent match:
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Fill the fuel reservoir with lighter fluid (e.g., Zippo or kerosene-based).
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Unscrew the metal striker rod from the container.
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Strike the rod along the flint strip on the side of the case to generate a flame.
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Blow it out and return the striker rod into the container.
Tip: Always ensure the striker wick is soaked with fluid before striking for best results.
3. What type of fuel do permanent match lighters use?
Most permanent match lighters require Zippo-style lighter fluid, kerosene, or other naphtha-based fuels. These fuels are readily available at outdoor or hardware stores. Note that butane, alcohol, or gasoline should not be used, as they can be hazardous or ineffective.
4. Are permanent match lighters waterproof?
Yes, many permanent match lighters are designed to be waterproof, making them suitable for camping, survival, or emergency use in wet conditions. Always ensure the lid is tightly sealed to prevent fuel leakage and maintain waterproof integrity.
5. How long does a permanent match last?
A quality permanent match can typically last 10,000–15,000 strikes, depending on the material and usage. Regularly replacing the cotton wick and keeping the flint in good shape will help maximize the lifespan. With proper care, these lighters can last for years.
Final Thoughts
Permanent matches offer a nostalgic and functional twist on traditional fire tools—environmentally friendly, aesthetically pleasing, and refillable. However, they demand maintenance and careful handling. Think of them as elegant backups, not everyday essentials.
Related Resources:
- Best Refillable Lighter Reviews
- Best Butane Fuel For Lighter Reviews
- How Does A Permanent Match Lighter Work? Why Use It?
- How To Use A Permanent Match? How To Fill It?