Zippo Classic Black Matte Windproof Lighter (218) in El Paso

The Zippo 218 is the lighter most people picture when they hear the word Zippo: a solid black matte case, a windproof flame, and a hinged lid that snaps shut with the unmistakable click. It is the plainest and most versatile finish in Zippo’s Classic line, and one of the most popular lighters our Hosts stock across El Paso. Below is exactly what it is, how it works, and how to keep it running for decades.

An Icon That Just Works

The 218 is a genuine Zippo windproof lighter, which means the flame is shielded by the perforated chimney wall and stays lit in wind that would blow out a disposable. It is all-metal construction with the classic Classic-case shape and the spring-hinged lid that closes with the signature Zippo click. There is no design or logo on this model, just a clean black matte case, which is why it is the go-to choice for guests who want a dependable everyday carry rather than a collectible. Light a candle on a windy patio, spark a grill, or use it on a cold morning; the windproof design works virtually anywhere.

Why the Black Matte Finish

The black matte look comes from a powder coat applied electrostatically over the brass case, then cured to a smooth, low-sheen surface. Two practical benefits follow: the matte coating does not show fingerprints the way polished chrome does, and it resists everyday scuffs better than chrome or brass finishes. The texture is smooth in the hand and understated in the pocket. The same powder coat is also a favorite for laser engraving, because a laser burns through the matte layer to reveal the bright brass underneath for crisp, permanent personalization.

Refillable, Never Disposable

This is a refillable lighter built for a lifetime of use, not a throwaway. It ships empty for safety, with the flint and wick already installed, so you simply add fuel before first use. Fill it with Zippo premium lighter fluid by lifting the insert from the case and saturating the felt packing. A full fill delivers roughly 200 lights, and because the case is not airtight the fluid slowly evaporates over a week or two even when idle, so it is smart to top off before a trip. Over the long run the only consumables are fuel, the flint, and the wick, and all three are inexpensive to replace at home.

Backed by Zippo's Lifetime Guarantee

Every Zippo windproof pocket lighter carries Zippo’s famous lifetime guarantee: it works or Zippo fixes it free. If the mechanism ever fails, you send the lighter to the Zippo Repair Clinic in Bradford, Pennsylvania, and Zippo repairs it at no charge, regardless of age. El Paso Smoke Shops sells the lighter; Zippo honors the guarantee and performs the repair. One honest note: the guarantee covers the mechanical function, not the finish, surface scratches, or any decorative engraving, so the black matte coating itself is not warrantied.

Find the Zippo 218 in El Paso

El Paso Smoke Shops runs 10 locations across El Paso, TX, and our Hosts handle and stock these lighters in person. This model is carried in some of those stores rather than all of them, so check the live availability on this page to see which El Paso store currently has the Zippo 218 in stock. You must be 21 or older with a valid ID to purchase. In-store pickup keeps it simple: see the store, see the stock, pick it up the same day.

If you want one lighter that is dependable, refillable, and genuinely built to last, the Zippo 218 Black Matte is the classic answer. Add fuel, keep a spare flint on hand, and it can serve you for years. Check the live availability above for the El Paso store that has it, and our Hosts will have it ready at the counter.