@lewm If you're feeling a little brave, put your finger near the Zerostat's "muzzle" and click it. You'll feel a little shock and probably see a little spark jump to your finger. That's what happens with mine, bought around 2006.
Found a Milty Zerostat alternative
I was thinking about buying the Milty Zerostat but came across a discussion regarding this plasma arc lighter.
https://www.amazon.ca/Lighters-Electric-Rechargeable-Lighter-Windproof/dp/B09CYQ92PF/ref=dp_prsubs_sccl_3/130-2888405-1836766?pd_rd_w=YAj0t&content-id=amzn1.sym.7f829f53-1df3-4cd3-91bf-9933c19106a6&pf_rd_p=7f829f53-1df3-4cd3-91bf-9933c19106a6&pf_rd_r=XCDACDZA93ZQEQD27N82&pd_rd_wg=LfOt5&pd_rd_r=6ea7c5de-5354-4a91-9826-e178d9a2b653&pd_rd_i=B09CYQ92PF&psc=1
It really works well! I took a record out of it's sleeve and held a tissue against it. The tissue stuck to it, even when held upside down. I turned on the plasma lighter and held it about 1.5" away and made two or three circular passes around. Tried the tissue test again and it would not stick to the vinyl. It's also well constructed and doesn't feel cheap.