Lighting Alternatives?

[JoeLipinski]

Please use N-A-T-U-R-A-L coals.... it is very rare that you get a chemical taste... I know you want to smoke as soon as possible, but as someone (I forget who) says "Hookah is for people with patience." Usually it only takes about 5-7 mins for natural coals to get going. I recommend exotic coals because they break easily (just lay them down on a flat surface with about 1/3 sticking off the edge and hold the remaining 2/3 with your palm and then break off the other 1/3 with your other hand. Also they light in about 5 mins on an electric hot plate (mine are grey on the bottom and sides... doesn't really have to be grey on the top, but it doesn't hurt).

[Texico]

The problem with using naturals is that it's not economical to get them going with a regular lighter. Not everyone has access to a stove top to light naturals. I know that I don't and neither do any of my friends. I use QL's because they are all I can feasibly light given my situation and equipment. Also, I have yet to experience any "bad" flavor from the coals. Maybe I'm just used to the flavor being there, but I can always taste the full flavor unless the tobacco is being burnt.

[SupremeOstrich]

As soon as I stop owing money on computer parts (>.<) i'm going to invest in some Starbuzz and hopefully some natural coals. As long as an electrix stove with coils can light it, or even better, one of the flex lighters, i'm fine to wait a little longer. No point in rushing into a session if it's going to be shitty.