Coghlans Plasma Lighter Review

First Thoughts on the Coghlans Plasma Lighter

The Coghlans Plasma Lighter promises a modern, windproof flame solution for outdoor enthusiasts. Priced attractively at $17.49, this USB-C rechargeable lighter from Coghlans offers a compelling alternative to traditional butane lighters and matches. It boasts a flameless arc ignition, promising reliable operation in challenging conditions.

My need for this arose from years of frustration with fickle butane lighters that fail me in wind or after getting slightly damp. I needed a reliable fire-starting option for backpacking trips, one that wouldn’t let me down when I needed it most.

The Coghlans Plasma Lighter arrives in simple, no-frills packaging. The lighter itself is surprisingly lightweight, constructed of what appears to be durable plastic. Its sleek, minimalist design is appealing, but the true test will be its functionality.

I considered several butane windproof lighters before settling on the Coghlans Plasma Lighter. The appeal was its USB-C rechargeability and the elimination of the need for fuel refills, which can be messy and inconvenient in the field. Other options, while potentially more robust, lacked this ease of use and environmental friendliness.

My initial impression is cautiously optimistic. The light weight and compact size are definite positives. The promise of windproof operation is extremely appealing.

Real-World Testing: Putting Coghlans Plasma Lighter to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Coghlans Plasma Lighter on a weekend camping trip in the nearby Angeles National Forest. The campsite was at a higher elevation, exposing it to gusty winds. I attempted to light a small campfire using tinder made of dried leaves and pine needles.

The Coghlans Plasma Lighter performed remarkably well in the wind. The plasma arc easily ignited the tinder, even with strong gusts blowing. It only took a couple of seconds of contact to get the fire going.

The lighter also proved effective in slightly damp conditions. The tinder wasn’t soaking wet, but it had absorbed some moisture from the morning dew. The plasma arc managed to ignite it without issue. This would have been impossible with a standard butane lighter.

The lighter was incredibly easy to use right out of the box. It features a simple on/off switch and a button that activates the plasma arc. The only slight adjustment needed was finding the optimal distance between the arc and the tinder.

After the initial use, I did notice the lighter housing getting slightly warm after extended use (lighting a few fires in a row). This wasn’t alarming, but something to monitor with future testing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Coghlans Plasma Lighter continues to impress. I’ve used it on multiple camping trips, backyard bonfires, and even to light candles indoors. It has consistently performed well.

Durability has been surprisingly good. The plastic housing has held up well to being tossed in a backpack and subjected to some rough handling. There are no visible signs of cracks or damage.

Maintenance is incredibly simple. There’s no fuel to refill or flints to replace. Occasionally, I use a small brush to clean any debris that might accumulate around the plasma arc points.

Compared to my previous experiences with butane lighters, the Coghlans Plasma Lighter is a clear winner. It’s more reliable, easier to maintain, and doesn’t require carrying extra fuel. It far outperforms matches in windy conditions.

Breaking Down the Features of Coghlans Plasma Lighter

Specifications

• Flameless Arc Ignition: The Coghlans Plasma Lighter uses a flameless arc to ignite materials, eliminating the need for butane or other fuels. This offers significantly improved wind resistance compared to traditional lighters.
• Windproof: The lack of a traditional flame makes it virtually impervious to wind. This is a crucial feature for outdoor use.
• USB-C Rechargeable: The lighter is powered by a rechargeable battery that can be charged via a USB-C cable. This offers convenience and reduces waste compared to disposable lighters.
• Weight: While not specifically listed, the Coghlans Plasma Lighter is remarkably lightweight. This makes it easy to carry in a pocket or backpack.
• Materials: The body appears to be constructed from a durable ABS plastic, providing a balance between weight and resilience.

These specifications translate to a highly portable and reliable ignition source for outdoor adventures. The flameless arc and windproof design are particularly valuable in challenging environments. The USB-C charging capability eliminates the need for disposable fuel and reduces environmental impact.

Performance & Functionality

The Coghlans Plasma Lighter performs its primary function – creating fire – exceptionally well. Its windproof design guarantees ignition in most weather conditions. It is far more reliable than a standard lighter in adverse conditions.

The Coghlans Plasma Lighter‘s strength lies in its reliability in windy or slightly damp conditions. A minor weakness is the relatively small arc, which requires precise placement to ignite larger tinder. Overall, it significantly exceeds my expectations for a lighter in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Coghlans Plasma Lighter boasts a simple and functional design. Its lightweight plastic construction makes it comfortable to hold and easy to carry.

The lighter is extremely user-friendly. The on/off switch prevents accidental activation, and the activation button is easily accessible. There is practically no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The ABS plastic construction appears durable enough to withstand normal outdoor use. While I wouldn’t intentionally abuse it, it feels robust enough to handle being tossed in a pack.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning of the arc tips with a small brush. The USB-C charging port is conveniently located and protected.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Coghlans Plasma Lighter comes with a USB-C charging cable. There are no other included accessories.

There are no readily apparent customization options for this product. It’s a straightforward, self-contained unit. Compatibility with third-party accessories is not a factor.

Pros and Cons of Coghlans Plasma Lighter

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Who Should Buy Coghlans Plasma Lighter?

The Coghlans Plasma Lighter is perfect for campers, hikers, backpackers, and anyone who needs a reliable ignition source in outdoor environments. It’s also a great option for preppers and survivalists looking for a dependable tool for their kits.

Those who require a lighter that can withstand extreme abuse or who need to ignite large quantities of tinder quickly might want to consider a more robust (and expensive) option.

A small ferro rod striker could be a useful backup ignition source to carry alongside the Coghlans Plasma Lighter, particularly for extended trips.

Conclusion on Coghlans Plasma Lighter

The Coghlans Plasma Lighter is a remarkably effective and affordable tool for outdoor enthusiasts. Its windproof design, USB-C rechargeability, and ease of use make it a significant upgrade over traditional lighters.

The price of $17.49 is more than justified given its performance and features. It offers excellent value for anyone seeking a dependable fire-starting solution.

I would absolutely recommend the Coghlans Plasma Lighter to anyone looking for a reliable, windproof, and environmentally friendly ignition source. Ditch the fickle butane lighters and experience the convenience and dependability of plasma technology!

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