Overview
The HoneyStick Dissim Slim Butane Lighter reimagined the traditional lighter with one key innovation: an inverted flame. Rather than requiring users to tilt the lighter awkwardly to avoid burning fingers, the Dissim's flame naturally pointed away when held in a comfortable position.
This ergonomic approach, combined with premium metal construction and a slim profile, elevated the Dissim above typical butane lighters. It proved that everyday tools could be both functional and thoughtfully designed.
Note: This product has been discontinued by HoneyStick. This review is preserved for owners seeking information about their device.
Design & Build Quality
The Dissim Slim earned its name with a profile thin enough for front pockets without bulging. The all-metal construction gave it substantial weight without being heavy, signaling quality when picked up.
HoneyStick finished the lighter in multiple color options, each with a subtle sheen that resisted fingerprints better than glossy alternatives. The design was understated enough for professional settings while still showing personality.
The ignition mechanism felt smooth and reliable, with positive feedback when striking. The adjustable flame wheel allowed users to customize flame height based on their needs.
The Inverted Flame Concept
Traditional lighters require tilting the lighter nearly upside-down to light things below hand level—candles in deep holders, for example. This angle brings the flame dangerously close to fingers holding the lighter.
The Dissim solved this by angling the flame nozzle so that the flame pointed away from the user's hand when the lighter was held naturally. This simple but ingenious change made lighting more comfortable and safer.
Features
Soft Flame Output
The Dissim produced a traditional soft flame—the yellow, dancing flame familiar from standard lighters. Soft flames offer advantages:
- Gentle ignition: Won't scorch delicate materials
- Visible in daylight: Easy to see when lit
- Lower temperature: Appropriate for candles, incense, paper
- Traditional appearance: Familiar to most users
Adjustable Flame Height
The flame adjustment wheel allowed customization from a small, economical flame to a larger flame for quicker lighting. Users could dial in their preferred setting based on typical uses.
Refillable Butane
Unlike disposable lighters, the Dissim was designed for years of use with butane refills. The refill valve at the bottom accepted standard butane canisters, making refueling quick and economical.
The fuel window (on applicable colors) showed remaining butane level.
Premium Metal Construction
The all-metal body wasn't just aesthetic—it provided durability that plastic lighters couldn't match. The Dissim could handle drops, pocket wear, and years of daily use without cracking or failing.
Performance
Ignition Reliability
The piezo ignition system fired reliably with each strike. Unlike cheap lighters that require multiple attempts, the Dissim typically lit on the first try when properly fueled.
Flame Characteristics
The soft flame performed as expected:
- Candles: Excellent, with the inverted angle making deep candles easy
- Incense: Perfect for gentle ignition
- Paper/kindling: Reliable lighting
- Cigars: Workable, though purists prefer torches
Wind Performance
As a soft flame lighter, the Dissim was vulnerable to wind. Even moderate breezes could extinguish or disrupt the flame. For outdoor use in windy conditions, torch lighters or electric alternatives performed better.
Ergonomic Benefits
The inverted flame design genuinely improved the lighting experience. Users could maintain a natural grip while lighting objects at various angles—no more awkward tilting or burned fingertips from difficult angles.
Fuel Economy
Butane consumption was reasonable for a soft flame lighter. A full tank provided:
- Light users: Weeks of casual use
- Moderate users: 1-2 weeks
- Heavy users: Several days
Refilling was straightforward with standard butane cans, making the ongoing cost minimal compared to buying disposable lighters.
Who Was This For?
The Dissim Slim Butane Lighter appealed to:
- Ergonomics-focused users who appreciated the inverted flame design
- Quality seekers wanting premium feel and durability
- Eco-conscious users preferring refillable to disposable
- Candle enthusiasts who light candles regularly
- Gift-givers looking for elevated everyday items
It was less ideal for:
- Outdoor users facing windy conditions
- Those who prefer torch-style flames
- Budget-focused buyers (disposables cost less upfront)
- Users who rarely need a lighter
The Bottom Line
The HoneyStick Dissim Slim Butane Lighter demonstrated that thoughtful design could improve even mundane tools. The inverted soft flame made lighting more comfortable and safer, while the slim metal construction elevated the lighter from disposable tool to lasting accessory.
For indoor lighting tasks—candles, incense, occasional use—the Dissim performed excellently. Its limitations in wind were inherent to soft flame technology, not design flaws.
This product has been discontinued. If you own one, you have a well-designed lighter worth maintaining. For current options, check our HoneyStick brand page for available accessories.