Overview
The HoneyStick Dissim Slim Butane Lighter takes a simple concept and flips it. Literally. The flame points away from your hand instead of toward it.
What We Tested
Our hands-on testing methodology
Unit Tested
Dissim Slim Butane
Testing Period
10 days of use
Ignitions Tested
100+ lights
Flame Adjusted
Full range tested
Use Cases
Candles, incense, pipes
Fuel Economy
2 refills during test
You don't have to tilt the lighter at weird angles to avoid burning your fingers. Just hold it naturally and the flame goes where you need it.
The slim metal body and premium feel put it above your average gas station lighter. It's proof that even everyday tools can be 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 lives up to its name. It's thin enough to slip into a front pocket without creating a bulge. The all-metal construction gives it a satisfying weight in your hand, the kind that signals quality right away.
HoneyStick offered it in multiple colors, each with a subtle sheen that resisted fingerprints better than glossy finishes. Understated enough for work settings but still has personality.
The ignition feels smooth and clicks with positive feedback. The flame adjustment wheel lets you dial in exactly how big you want the flame.
The Inverted Flame Concept
Regular lighters force you to tilt nearly upside-down to light candles in deep holders. That angle brings the flame dangerously close to your fingers.
The Dissim fixes this by angling the nozzle so the flame points away from your hand when you hold it naturally. Simple idea, but it makes a real difference in comfort and safety.
Features
Soft Flame Output
The Dissim produces a traditional soft flame. That's the yellow, dancing flame you're used to from standard lighters. Soft flames have some real 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 lets you go from a small, economical flame to a larger one for quicker lighting. You can dial in your preferred setting based on what you typically use it for.
Refillable Butane
Unlike disposable lighters, the Dissim was built to last for years with butane refills. The refill valve at the bottom takes standard butane canisters. Quick and cheap to refuel.
Some color options have a fuel window so you can see how much butane is left.
Premium Metal Construction
The all-metal body isn't just for looks. It's durable in ways plastic lighters can't match. The Dissim can handle drops, pocket wear, and years of daily use without cracking or failing.
Performance
Ignition Reliability
The piezo ignition fires reliably every time you strike it. Unlike cheap lighters that need 3 or 4 attempts, the Dissim lights on the first try when it's got fuel.
Flame Characteristics
Here's how the soft flame performs in different situations:
- Candles: Excellent. The inverted angle makes deep candles easy to light
- Incense: Perfect for gentle ignition
- Paper/kindling: Reliable
- Cigars: Works, but cigar purists prefer torch lighters
Wind Performance
This is where soft flames show their weakness. Even a moderate breeze can blow out the flame or make it dance around uselessly. For windy outdoor use, you're better off with a torch lighter or electric option.
Ergonomic Benefits
The inverted flame design really does improve the lighting experience. You can keep a natural grip while lighting objects at various angles. No more awkward tilting or burned fingertips.
Fuel Economy
Butane consumption is reasonable for a soft flame lighter. A full tank gives you:
- Light users: Weeks of casual use
- Moderate users: 1-2 weeks
- Heavy users: Several days
Refilling takes seconds with standard butane cans. The ongoing cost is way less than buying disposables.
Who Was This For?
The Dissim Slim works best for:
- People who hate the awkward lighter tilt and want that inverted flame design
- Quality seekers who want something that feels solid and lasts
- Eco-conscious users who'd rather refill than throw away
- Candle lovers who light candles regularly
- Gift-givers looking for an elevated everyday item
It's not the best choice for:
- Outdoor use in windy conditions
- Anyone who wants a torch flame
- Budget shoppers (disposables cost less upfront)
- People who rarely need a lighter
The Bottom Line
The HoneyStick Dissim Slim shows that thoughtful design can improve even mundane tools. The inverted soft flame makes lighting more comfortable and safer. The slim metal body turns what could be a disposable item into a lasting accessory.
For indoor use like candles and incense, the Dissim performs great. Wind is its enemy, but that's soft flame technology in general, not a design flaw.
This product has been discontinued. If you own one, you've got a well-designed lighter worth maintaining. For current options, check our HoneyStick brand page for available accessories.