That is a very old way of lighting pipes from that was used before matches and lighters were cheap and common. I can't coment on how safe it is because apparently cheap cheap dab nails can offgas if they are not made from the right grade of titanium. They make electric versions now that have a ceramic rod.
A) Lighters dont really affect taste much unless using old school Zippo. B) Why go through extra steps and complications? You're just smoking weed...