The number one thing that I'm looking for in a lighter is reliability. I've had many a butane torch lighters that have crapped out on me. My lighters have primarily been Colibri and Xikar.

I do like the ergonomics/design of Xikar lighters..........on the Xikar Executive, the ignition is on the side which keeps your thumb from feeling the heat when lighting.

As far as price, I don't think I would pay more than $40 for a good lighter. Also, I prefer a torch lighter over a regular lighter.

Hope this helps. When you do create your lighter, feel free to send me one as a test product! Good luck.