Abstract: A pilot for a 1 to 2 million btu/hr. gas burning ignitor having a chamber for mixing gas and air in combustible proportions with an annular flame retaining and stabilizing device at its outlet. This device comprises two conical surfaces configured together in back-to-back relation within a cylindrical shroud, one a converging inlet to a restricted flow area and the other a diffusing outlet surface therefrom with a sharp circumferential lip inbetween. A distribution head at the inlet to the mixing chamber directs jets of gas at the lip of said cones which aspirate turbulent air through ports in the wall of the chamber. A high voltage elecrode ingites the gas/air mixture at the cone lip. A ported extension of the mixing chamber downstream of the stabilizing device contains the pilot flame and shrouds additional aspirated air for control of secondary combustion in the pilot.