“In case you don't read to the end of this, please at least make it this far: When the lighter is at the tail end of fluid and is about to be empty, the flame SHOOTS OUT about 3-5 inches out of the insert. I learned this the hard way, and if I had more facial hair/longer hair I absolutely would've burned myself. I wasn't expecting the flame to be even close to reaching my face. And consider the fact that this lighter has a tiny tank and you're going to refill it almost daily, that flame will be shooting out at your face quite often. I'm not sure how the other Z-Plus inserts are, but this pipe flame one should be avoided because this is very dangerous.
OTHER STUFF:
It fits decently enough but the lid will not close all of the way.
Flame adjustment is also difficult because there is a plastic arrow that fits around the flathead dial you turn to adjust flame size, and the arrow is there to make it easier to adjust, however this arrow slips off easily, which defeats its purpose.
If you are choosing between a Thunderbird and a Z-Plus insert, the Thunderbird is a better fit, better flame adjustment, and overall nicer quality. And it won't singe your eyebrows when it's running out of fluid.”
“I have an old zippo that I really like, but the problem of evaporating fluid in it makes it more or less impractical, never mind the smell it makes when you fill or light it. This butane powered insert is just the ticket. The twin flame is as good as any quality cigar lighter and you can adjust the height of the flame quickly and easily. It fills exactly as expected.
If you have an old zippo sitting on the self and want to give it new use, give this a try.”
“Works great. Have to drill access holes in bottom of lighter case so you don't have to remove insert to fill and adjust, but it works just as advertised.”
