My lighter works fine on 28 gauge Kanthal. I just move it slowly and continue on to the next bit as soon as I see the wire relax. It's a slightly fancy lighter, one of those that have the cyclone effect from the placement of the air holes, as opposed to the standard Bic type. So I know it has a hotter flame. Try one of the mini torch style lighters you can get at most smoke shops, pic linked below. (not suggesting that you purchase this particular item, solely to show style I'm trying to describe.)
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Working-But...942?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item20e28591f6
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Xparent Purple Tapatalk 2
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Working-But...942?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item20e28591f6
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Xparent Purple Tapatalk 2


So even with a lighter, gotta go a bit easier on the "torching." 
