Zippo, the iconic American brand, knows a thing or two about producing fire with speed and flair! With its renowned line of CASE Knives as its partners, Zippo Gear offers several must-have pocket, pouch, or pack options. These options are perfect for both beginner and seasoned campers alike!
Zippo Gear, Not Only Lighters
In 1932, George G. Blaisdell invented the Zippo lighter out of frustration with a cumbersome Austrian model. He admired its windproof chimney but recognized the need for a more user-friendly design. By 1933, he launched the first Zippo—a sleek, rectangular lighter with a hinged lid. The lighter operated efficiently with one hand and was priced at $1.95. It came with a bold promise: “It works or we fix it free,” establishing a lifetime guarantee as a key part of Zippo’s identity.
During World War II, Zippo shifted focus from consumer production to supplying lighters to U.S. troops. The reliable black crackle-finished steel models became battlefield essentials, trusted by soldiers in harsh conditions. This further solidified Zippo’s reputation for ruggedness. The lighter’s distinct “click” and windproof flame emerged as symbols of resilience and the American spirit.
Over the decades, Zippo transformed into a cultural icon, appearing in numerous films and serving as a canvas for personal expression. The brand expanded its offerings with innovations like the Slim Zippo in 1956. They recently branched into outdoor gear, including hand warmers and fire-starting tools like the FireFast® Bellows.
Today, Zippo Gear combines heritage with modern utility, appealing to campers, survivalists, and collectors.
Zippo’s Camping Gear
Zippo may be best known for its iconic windproof lighter, but the brand has evolved into a full-fledged outdoor gear company. It now boasts a growing lineup of rugged, fire-focused tools. From torches and hand warmers to camping accessories and apparel, Zippo’s gear reflects the same reliability and timeless design. These qualities made its lighter a legend.
Zippo offers a variety of notable products beyond its traditional lighters. The FireFast® Bellows serves as a battery-powered fire-starting tool. It delivers targeted airflow through a flame-retardant nozzle and features an ergonomic grip for ease of use. Users can also enjoy the convenience of rechargeable hand warmers, which not only keep hands warm but also charge phones.
For outdoor and tactical settings, Zippo Gear provides butane-powered torches that ensure precision flame control. Additionally, their camping essentials range includes fuel, cookware, and fire-starting kits designed specifically for backcountry adventures. Check out the two picks I thought were practical for hikers, campers, and preppers!
Zippo Typhoon Match Kit
Matches are even older than the ZIPPO Lighter, but most of the world still ignites camp and cook fires with matches, especially in developing countries. ZIPPO created the Typhoon Match Kit for those who refuse to let weather dictate their adventure. Designed with rugged ABS plastic (used in knife handles) and sealed with water-resistant O-rings, this kit keeps its 15 Typhoon Matches bone dry. This is true even when it is submerged. The integrated strike pad cap stays protected from the elements, ensuring reliable ignition when you need it most.
Each match is a mini inferno: windproof, water-resistant, and capable of burning up to 30 seconds with a hot, intense flame. At nearly 4 inches long, they offer added safety and plenty of time to get a fire going in harsh conditions. Whether you’re battling rain, wind, or snow, these matches light fast and burn strong.
The kit’s ergonomic design includes a textured grip for easy one-handed use. Also, a molded lanyard hole for quick attachment to your pack or go-bag adds peace of mind. The large striking surface is excellent. Lightweight, reusable, and built to float, the Typhoon Match Kit is a fire-starting essential for survivalists, campers, and anyone who ventures beyond the beaten path.
ZIPPO Gear Mag Strike
The Zippo Mag Strike is a fire-starting powerhouse built for precision, durability, and performance in the wild. With a 5/16″ ferrocerium rod and a hardened 420 stainless steel striker blade, it delivers a shower of sparks that easily ignites tinder—even in cold, wet, or windy conditions. The blade’s sharpened edge ensures maximum spark output with minimal effort. This makes fire-starting fast and reliable.
Its triangular body and textured grip offer superior leverage, especially when wearing gloves or working in low temperatures. The snap-lock closure keeps the rod and striker securely housed in a shielded internal chamber, protecting them from moisture and damage. Lightweight yet rugged, the Mag Strike features a molded lanyard hole for easy attachment to your pack or gear.
Whether you’re building a fire at basecamp or lighting tinder in a survival scenario, the Zippo Mag Strike gives you control, confidence, and consistent performance. It’s a compact tool that punches above its weight, ready to ignite every adventure.
Designed for success, Zippo’s gear is not just functional—it’s essential for your outdoor adventures. Get ready to ignite your camping experience with Zippo’s unbeatable fire starters!
