I bought the DuPont Xtend from Mark group buy as my first torch. Then wanted an everyday lighter, so bought a Xikar Executive a few months later and a Solo Silo also from mark. Virtually the same lighter as the Xikar for about $20 each. The Xikar works better than the Solo, mostly cause the damn Solo flames out on me if I try lighting a cigar with is and will not re-light. The DuPont works flawlessly all the time and can light sticks all day long, never failed me once. If I had to do again, I would only own the DuPont and no other lighter would be needed. I did however use the faux leather pouch from the cheaper lighters for the Xtend to protect it, works like a charm.