MSR Piezo Ignitor

Lighters are ok but if you get the flint wet then you are never going to get a spark. This nifty gadget still works when wet, won't blow out when windy like matches and is compact and light weight. Also safer in airline baggage.

More reliable and easier to pack than matches or a lighter.

The MSR Piezo Ignitor is a useful bit of kit for lighting stoves that lack a built-in ignitor of their own. However, I wouldn't rely on it without a back-up. I carry matches and a Bic lighter in my rucksack at all times, but I found the Piezo ignitor to be much more convenient. Having said that, it took four or five clicks before the stove lit, but to be fair I was out on an open snowy moor with very little shelter from the wind. As it's an electronic gadget, make sure it is kept dry by keeping it in a small plastic bag when not in use.

The MSR Piezo Ignitor is super lightweight and small in size. I find it much easier and safer to use than a lighter to get my gas stove going and the great thing is that it works when it is wet, with no fuel to run out, as with a lighter or batteries to replace. It takes a little getting used to, in that the ignitor ideally needs to be held at an angle near to the burner to allow it to fill with gas before pressing the ignitor. I had problems getting it to work at first consistently, but now I've figured out the method, it works fine, every time. Durable and robust - Recommended.

I was impressed with the prompt and efficient service coupled with good value for money while the ignitor is a better and more compact alternative to a standard lighter or matches in lighting a camping stove with no weight penalty. So, excellence all round really!