Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399 Review

First Impressions of Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399

The Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399 immediately evokes a sense of classic cool with a touch of edgy sophistication. As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I don’t typically focus on lighters, but the iconic imagery and the Zippo name grabbed my attention; it felt like an interesting intersection of Americana and reliable functionality. This review explores whether this seemingly simple lighter can hold up to the standards of quality and dependability I expect from my gear.

My everyday carry (EDC) has always included a reliable fire starter, traditionally a ferro rod and striker. However, the allure of a classic Zippo, paired with the iconic Playboy imagery, presented an opportunity to add a touch of personal style to my kit without sacrificing functionality. Unboxing the Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399 revealed a familiar form factor, the weight reassuringly solid, the Street Chrome finish exhibiting a subtle, durable aesthetic.

Compared to a standard Bic lighter or a modern butane torch lighter, the Zippo promises wind resistance and a certain timeless appeal. I chose this particular Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399 over a plain Zippo for its distinctive design, adding a visual element that reflects a bit of personality. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would be more than just a novelty item and would actually deliver the consistent performance Zippo is known for.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399 was during a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. The conditions were moderately challenging, with a light drizzle and a persistent breeze – perfect for testing the Zippo’s advertised wind resistance. Lighting my campfire was a breeze, the flame holding steady even with the wind, and it significantly outperformed the cotton and petroleum jelly fire starters I had in my bag.

The Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399 was immediately intuitive to use, requiring only the familiar flick of the wrist. Refilling the lighter fluid was straightforward, although I did notice that I went through more fuel than I initially anticipated. There were no immediate malfunctions or issues, leaving me pleased with its initial performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399 as my primary fire starter, both on outdoor adventures and for mundane tasks around the house, it has proven to be reasonably reliable. The Street Chrome finish has held up well to scratches and minor impacts, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. Routine maintenance involves occasionally refilling the fuel and replacing the flint, a simple process that takes only a few minutes.

The Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399 performs consistently well, although the need for frequent refills is a notable drawback compared to disposable lighters or ferro rods. In comparison to other fluid lighters I’ve used, the Zippo feels more robust and its classic design evokes a sense of quality. This Zippo has certainly earned a permanent spot in my go-bag.

Breaking Down the Features of Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399

Specifications

The Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399 is a classic Zippo windproof lighter featuring a Street Chrome finish and the Playboy Rabbit Head Design. Its dimensions are 1.44″ x 2.25″, with a weight of 0.16 lb. It comes boxed and is designed for adult use.

The Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399’s compact dimensions make it easy to carry in a pocket or pack, and the weight provides a sense of durability. The Street Chrome finish offers a rugged look that resists fingerprints and minor scratches, while the Playboy emblem adds a touch of personalized style. These specifications translate to a user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing lighter.

Performance & Functionality

The Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399 performs its primary function—producing a reliable flame—admirably. The windproof design ensures the flame stays lit even in breezy conditions, making it suitable for outdoor use. However, it requires regular refilling of lighter fluid and occasional flint replacement.

One significant strength is its robust construction, making it more durable than disposable lighters. A potential weakness is the fuel evaporation rate, which can lead to the lighter being empty even when unused for a short period. It meets expectations as a classic windproof lighter, but the fuel consumption is a point of consideration.

Design & Ergonomics

The Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399’s build quality is excellent, with a sturdy metal casing and well-constructed hinge. The weight feels substantial without being cumbersome. The Street Chrome finish provides a comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.

Its ergonomic design is intuitive and requires no learning curve. The simple flick-to-light mechanism makes it easy to use with one hand. This Zippo blends a classic design with practical functionality.

Durability & Maintenance

The Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399 is built to last, with a robust metal construction that can withstand daily use and minor impacts. Its simple design makes maintenance straightforward, primarily involving refilling the fuel and replacing the flint. With proper care, this lighter can provide years of reliable service.

Cleaning is also straightforward, as the Street Chrome finish resists dirt and fingerprints. The Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399 embodies durability and ease of maintenance, aligning with the brand’s reputation for long-lasting products.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399 does not come with additional accessories beyond the standard packaging. However, a wide range of Zippo accessories are available separately, including lighter fluid, flints, and wicks. The lighter’s internal components can also be customized with aftermarket inserts, such as butane torch inserts, to alter its functionality.

While the Playboy design is inherent to this specific model, the core Zippo design allows for various aesthetic customizations, such as engraving or applying custom emblems. The Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399 offers a balance of a distinct visual style with potential for further personalization.

Pros and Cons of Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399

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Who Should Buy Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399?

The Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399 is perfect for collectors, Playboy enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a classic, reliable windproof lighter with a distinctive design. This Zippo would make an excellent gift for someone who appreciates Americana and iconic imagery.

Those seeking a low-maintenance fire starter or prefer the convenience of disposable lighters should probably skip this product. Must-have accessories include Zippo lighter fluid and flints to ensure continued use.

Conclusion on Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399

The Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399 successfully marries iconic design with reliable functionality. While it requires more maintenance than disposable options, its durability and windproof flame make it a worthwhile addition to any EDC kit. The $28.99 price is justified by its build quality and brand recognition, making it a worthwhile investment for those who value both form and function.

I would personally recommend the Zippo Playboy Lighter ZO17399 to anyone seeking a classic and stylish windproof lighter. Embrace the iconic style and reliable performance – add this Zippo to your collection today.