Lighting with a zippo

[Cool Breeze]

would the soft flame be better than the torch?

Most people think so. The soft flame isn't as hot and won't scorch the foot of the cigar like a torch can if you get it too close.

Personally I think the method of lighting is one of the most overrated aspects of cigar smoking. I may get flamed for this, but I use a Bic 3/4 of the time. I toast the foot and light it up with no issues or bad taste. I only pull out the torch if it is windy and I have trouble keeping a Bic lit.

Flame on.