S.T. Dupont introduced several new collections at the 2023 PCA Trade Show in Las Vegas. One of those making a striking visual statement is the Fluo Collection. This wide-ranging collection consists of the Le Grand, Defi Extreme, Slim 7, MiniJet, and MaxiJet, the subject of this product review. The collection includes a cutter, punch, a three-cigar case, and ballpoint and rollerball pens as well. Let’s take a closer look at the Fluo MaxiJet and see what it has to offer
Under the Lid
The MaxiJet was initially introduced in 2000 as the X.Tend, along with a smaller version, the Mini X.Tend. These lighters were S.T. Dupont’s first line of torch lighters. The company updated the line around 2007 and changed the name to the Jet line. These lighters are available in various colors and have become a favorite among cigar smokers.
The lighter I have been using for this review is the MaxiJet Fluo Blue. The Fluo collection is also available in green and orange, which other team members have enjoyed testing.
MSRP:
· S.T. Dupont MaxiJet Fluo Collection – MSRP $265.00
As the box is opened, the visual aspect of this lighter is immediately apparent. The gloss fluorescent blue on the ignition switch stands out against the matte black of the lighter body. It almost gives the vibe of the latest trend in F1 racing of matte base colors with fluorescent trim. Now, if it performs as it looks, this has the makings to be a “sure-fire” winner!
Performance Notes:
Lighter popularity and purchasing decisions depend on many factors. Function, price, reliability, and style are at the top. We have already covered the style points for this lighter. I am happy to say the performance and reliability are outstanding. In the three months I have been testing this lighter, I have yet to see it not light on the first press of the ignition button. Reliable ignition is a significant asset for any lighter, and the MaxiJet excels. I am sure we have all been at the lounge going “click click click” with a lighter that will not ignite, typically ending with someone offering their lighter to use. With the MaxiJet, you will be the one offering assistance. While nothing is failure-proof, it will be interesting, over the long term, to see what it takes to make this one fail if it ever does.
The flame is very tight, allowing it to be used with scalpel-like precision for touch-ups, yet it is large enough to ignite all but the larger ring gauge cigars easily. The MaxiJet is also fuel efficient, allowing me to light about ten cigars before the fuel window indicates it needs a refill.
From a function standpoint, this lighter’s matte finish makes it feel great in the hand. There is no indication that it will slip from my grip while using it. The ignition button is easy to press to ignite, and it has a safety to keep it from igniting while inverted.
The only negatives I have found with the lighter are minor. As much as the matte finish adds to the cool factor, it is also prone to fingerprints and smudges. It has held up well as far as scratches go, with none noticeable after three months of heavy use. The other is that the lighter’s thin profile makes it easy to knock over if you don’t lay it on its side when setting it down after use. As I said, it is minor and in no way a deal breaker.
Smokin’ Facts:
- S.T. Dupont/Coles of London advertises with Smokin Tabacco, but that does not weight scoring
- Lighter was loaned to Smokin Tabacco for photos by Coles of London
- The team at Smokin Tabacco coined the phrase “Tactical Sexy” for this lighter. It remains to be seen if S.T. Dupont will adopt this as a catchphrase.
- The lighter has a two-year manufacturer warranty from the date of purchase, subject to certain conditions.
- S.T. Dupont recommends using Black butane in this lighter, which must be used to maintain the two-year warranty.
- Large ring gauge fans will want to look elsewhere.
Smokin Wrap:
I love cigar accessories, particularly lighters. I have always wanted to collect S.T. Dupont products. Having something of this quality at a price that, while inexpensive, most likely won’t break the bank and allows everyday use makes this one a winner. I was so impressed with the MaxiJet that I purchased the lighter that S.T. Dupont sent me to review.
