To start, grab two AA batteries and some steel wool (or metal gum wrapper). Rub the steel wool against both ends of the battery and a spark will form.
Matches or Candle Flame
The most common way of lighting a cigarette without a lighter is using a match. You can find matches almost anywhere and they are quite easy to light. It is essential to use caution and follow safety precautions.
Candles are another commonly used alternative. To light a candle you can use a metal object such as a serving spoon or your finger. You can also use a flint and steel or an electric stove burner. There are also many DIY firestarters that you can make yourself. These are ideal for emergencies and are a convenient option when you don’t have any matches or a lighter.
Why does a candle flame point upward? The reason is because the wick burns and this causes a chemical reaction. The combustion produces water vapor, carbon dioxide gas and heat energy. When the wax is burning, the vapor rises and this creates the glowing candle flame that we see.
Alternatively, you can use an AA battery to start a fire. You will need a piece of something that is metal but can ignite, such as steel wool. You can also use a metal gum wrapper if it is available. Rub the positive end of the battery against the steel wool and you will instantly get a spark, which can then be used to light tinder.
Gas Stove or Burner
Using a gas stove or burner is another way to light up your cigarette without having a lighter. This is a convenient option as it doesn’t require any additional equipment. Just turn on the stove and place the end of your cigarette against it until it lights up. Just be careful not to touch the burner directly as this can cause burns.
A toaster can also be used as a lighter by removing the plug from the outlet and inserting the cigarette into the hot slot. The heat from the toaster will create enough heat for your cigarette to light up. This method is not ideal and should only be used in an emergency as it is dangerous.
If you happen to have a butane torch handy, this can be a great alternative to lighting up a cigarette. However, it’s important to remember that smoking even one cigarette can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease and cancer. Furthermore, butane torches aren’t recommended for use indoors and should only be used outside. If you want to use a butane torch, make sure it is properly stored and that the nozzle is closed when not in use. In addition, it’s important to wear protective gloves when handling this device. You should also never leave the torch unattended as it can become a fire hazard.
Steel Wool
Steel wool is a bundle of fine, flexible steel filaments. It’s often used as an abrasive cleaning product and for sanding, but it can also be used to make fire. Rubbing the positive end of an AA or 9-volt battery against steel wool can create sparks that can be used to light a cigarette. This trick is popular among wilderness survivalists, but it can be dangerous if you don’t have proper safety equipment.
To produce steel wool, a large amount of metal rod is cut into thin strips and then shaved with a tool that has grooves along its surface. These grooves are sized to the desired grade of steel wool, and the cutting tool is regularly sharpened. The raw materials may include low-grade carbon steel wire, bronze, or aluminum and stainless steel.
The metal wool is then packaged into spools for distribution. The spools are marked with the grade and size, and they’re inspected for quality before they’re shipped to customers. International Steel Wool sells its steel wool for a variety of uses. Woodworkers use it to clean and smooth working surfaces. It’s also useful for sanding furniture and restoring old pieces. It can also be a great way to tighten a screw—TOH master carpenter Norm Abram finds that tucking a piece of steel wool into an oversize screw hole keeps it secure.
Borrowing a Light
If you find yourself in a dire situation where your lighter is dead or out of gas, there are some creative alternatives to lighting your cigarette. You can try using matches or a candle flame, use flint and steel, or borrow a light from someone nearby. Then again, it’s not the safest way to smoke and not advisable to do on a regular basis.
One of the most common ways to use a cigarette without a lighter is to borrow a friend’s light, especially in public places where you may be prohibited from smoking. If you can, try asking politely if you can borrow their light, as most people don’t mind. This is also a good option in case you forget your lighter or run out of fuel, as it will provide you with a convenient way to light your cigarette until you can get your hands on more.
Taking advantage of the sun is another way to light your cigarette without a lighter, as this method uses heat instead of chemicals. Simply place part of the cigarette in a glass, place a magnifying glass over the top of it, and shine sunlight on it until it ignites. This is a great alternative to using matches or a candle flame in windy conditions, and it’s easy enough for anyone to do.