Popular Science featured the AirLighter- anyone have one?


 
P

Pinny

TVWBB Super Fan
I'm interested in some of the new high-tech grill starters:

AirLighter: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00JVWNNWA/tvwb-20

LooftLighter: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000WYY65Y/tvwb-20

FIAIR: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00LHC1FB8/tvwb-20

Does anyone have experience with these? I don't really need them for starting my grills; I'm more interested in getting one to quickly bring the coals up to a high temp when I need to add more last minute. Also, I love gadgets.

Thanks,
Pinny
 
I use this for quick heat ups - http://www.harborfreight.com/propane-torch-with-push-button-igniter-91037.html

image_11750.jpg
 
I had a Looftlighter several years ago. Lasted about 8 weeks. No user replaceable parts and got no help from the manufacturer in getting it fixed or replaced. I use a regular propane torch, but I'm thinking about getting one like Russell shows.
 
Yep, use the flame thrower to start my coals, burn off my grates, and get crunchy bacon on Fatty's if needed.
 
I have a Looftlighter. It lights charcoal fast. Hold it against the charcoal 15 seconds and it begins to spark. Back it off an inch or so and continue. Bellows effect in a minute. If I'm in a hurry I light multiple spots and I can be grilling in 10 minutes.

I wouldn't use it in the wsm with food already on, it would kick up too much ash.
 
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If your just interested in stoking the coals than a fireplace bellow or hand crank one like this would work .
k32-1._outdoor-cooking-bbq-fan-air-blower-for-barbecue-fire-bellows-hand-crank.jpg

An old hairdryer will do in a pinch.

Tim
 
For those interested in one of the ~$100 air lighters, consider one of these instead:



$15 versus $99, and they work just as well. Hearing about the reliability issues with the Looftlighters, I'd say it's quite likely that this harbor freight cheapie will easily out-last it as well.
 
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