What does the TSA define as a "torch lighter?" Is there a certain criteria? Is it the kind with the blue flame or even the long ones that can be used for lighting a grill?

I had a very nice and expensive "torch" lighter confiscated after clearing customs in DTW a couple years ago. I had purchased it empty during a stop over in Manila and had no problems getting it through in my carry on. I simply explained that it was empty and that i had no means of filling it. After clearing US Customs and rechecking bags it was confiscated by an officer who had a bulge in her pocket which appeared to be a pack of Newport. Although I suspected she was confiscating it for her own use, I was pretty much powerless to do anything. Maybe I SHOULD have checked it but quite frankly it was of value and I didn't trust the baggage screeners or handlers from 3 seperate countries enough to put it there.

I guess it would be better to just carry a BIC and be on the safe side. They aren't worth much and can be easily obtained. I was thinking of packing 3-4. id imagine having more than a reasonable amount could justifiably raise suspicion. In any case, its a lot better than the disposable matches, especially considering we were limited to 4 books of those.