Propane torch recommendations

[sgf13]

Yesterday when I went to use my close to 40 year old propane torch I couldn't turn the knob. It was corroded in the closed position. When I used pliers and oil the knob snapped off.

I have oxy/accetaline for hot work. I only use this torch infrequently, mostly for lighting charcoal and other small tasks. I want to replace it with the self igniter type. Does anyone have a recommendation? I am not wanting to spend big money for my limited use but I do want something with an igniter that works reliably.

I was looking at this one. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004FPZACE/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[Kscardsfan]

I like this style of Bernzomatic myself. But they have gotten amazingly expensive since I bought one last.
Bernzomatic TS4000 Trigger Start Torch - Single Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08YQYXJZ1/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[tncatadjuster]

I bought the TS4000 and really like the way it works, pricy but it will be my last.

 

[WWheeler]

I always just go to the blue or orange BBS and grab the kit with a yellow bottle and the more expensive trigger option of the two they have. I think there's maybe a $10 difference between the two choices and the more expensive torch is waaaay better. It's the one with the flame adjustment knob and the bigger torchhead on it. I always get the kit instead of just the trigger because it comes with a full bottle for less than buying a bottle separately and the yellow propylene bottle instead of blue propane because it burns hotter.

 

[sgf13]

"the yellow propylene bottle instead of blue propane because it burns hotter."

I have been using the green camping bottles for years, for no other reason than to use up partially empty cylinders. I had no idea there was a difference between the contents of the yellow and blue. I've never used the yellow.

 

[WWheeler]

I have been using the green camping bottles for years, for no other reason than to use up partially empty cylinders. I had no idea there was a difference between the contents of the yellow and blue. I've never used the yellow.

We used to use MAPP but they did away with that for whatever reason and now it's propylene, or I think Benzo calls it MAP-Pro gas. It's not as good as MAPP was but it's still a lot quicker and use less fuel than propane that's for sure.

Wish I still had oxy acetyl in the shop, but where I live AirGas has a total monopoly and the new manager there royally pissed me off a few years back so I quit doing business with them. I guess I could check back. He probably no longer works there.

 

[KnurledNut]

While not meeting the OP's considerations, I've been using the TurboTorch STK-9 (STK-99 is self-lighting) with MAPP and highly recommend it. (Beware of the cheap knockoffs.)
STK-9 @ Amazon here.
STK-99 @ Amazon here.

 

[zendriver]

I've been using this one for years, just seems hotter works perfect every time. Whipped it out last night to jump start an evening patio fire. Best one I've ever used.

Electric Start Propane Torch

Amazing deals on this Electric Start Propane Torch at Harbor Freight. Quality tools & low prices.

www.harborfreight.com

 

[sgf13]

I've been using this one for years, just seems hotter works perfect every time. Whipped it out last night to jump start an evening patio fire. Best one I've ever used.

I was going to get one but the reviews were so mixed I was a bit warry. Considering the price of some of the others it may be worth a try.

 

[zendriver]

I was going to get one but the reviews were so mixed I was a bit warry. Considering the price of some of the others it may be worth a try.

I never really trust reviews anywhere,(there is a whole world of fake ones out there) even the torch you linked on Amazon has "junk" or "waste of money" of what is likely a pretty good product.

You should not take my word for for it either.

 

[Bockscar]

I have bothe .....prefer the one on the left because the one on the right I got at an auction and I dropped before I could use it....it still works with a lighter and I would agree with zendriver

 

[tester19]

Consider getting the model with the hose.
I find it far more flexible and can get in a lot more places.



As others have posted. WOW have the prices gone up!
$120!

Torch with Hose
.
.
.

 

[Komet]

I went with the Bernzomatic TS3500KC Multi-Use Torch Kit because it was cheap and came with propane at home depot. Even though it's got a plastic handle, it works fine and I think it would hold up to occasional use well.

 

[CJM8515]

ts8000, works better than the other models

 

[blazemaster83]

Bernzomatic TS8000. Its a ts4000 with an adjustable flame, and the top end is a little larger flame.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0019CQL60/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[RidgeHiker]

I never really trust reviews anywhere,(there is a whole world of fake ones out there) even the torch you linked on Amazon has "junk" or "waste of money" of what is likely a pretty good product.

You should not take my word for for it either.

I figure that there’s much less incentive to fake reviews on company sites like Harbor Freight than on Amazon where there are so many sellers from so many countries competing with each other in the same space.

 

[WWheeler]

I figure that there’s much less incentive to fake reviews on company sites like Harbor Freight than on Amazon where there are so many sellers from so many countries competing with each other in the same space.

LOL, have you ever tried to leave a bad review on Harbor Freight?

I have, and it wasn't even that critical of a 2 star review, but it never posted, so I tried again, and again my review was sent down the memory hole. I don't think HF lets you post a critical review, especially not one explaining how the tool broke. If a site only lets people post positive reviews then they are ALL fake IMHO.

 

[Lucid Moments]

I picked up this one last year and it works just fine with some occasional heavy use

 

[Vahispd]

I've had my TS4000 since the early/mid 90's and it has held up well with sporadic use, but no idea how good the new models are.

I do like the adjustable flame on the TS8000. I helped my Son-in-law remove a broken water pump bolt earlier this year and the model with hose would have been handy to have for the tight space.

 

[sgf13]

Considering my limited use I am leaning towards the HF model. I have never had an issue leaving a negative review but as a long time Internet shopper I learned to focus mostly on the 3 & 4 star reviews. Certainly not a perfect system but it generally works for me. Like others have said the prices are crazy but what isn't right now.

I'm sorry I broke my old one. While searching for a replacement I learned that my old one is a "genuine real brass classic torch for gas bottles, very rare"

 

[dscheidt]

I've had my TS4000 since the early/mid 90's and it has held up well with sporadic use, but no idea how good the new models are.

I do like the adjustable flame on the TS8000. I helped my Son-in-law remove a broken water pump bolt earlier this year and the model with hose would have been handy to have for the tight space.

I have an ext3nsiuon hose that I use with my ts8000 from time to time, when I remeber I have it.

 

[rharman]

This is really timely. My WAY old Bernzomatic bottle seems to not want to seal completely when you remove the torch - it seems to stop eventually. I'm taking it to HHW site next week to dispose of and have been leaving it outside in the meantime.

So, I've been interested in a replacement - good info here.

On a related note, I'm looking for a decent butane torch. I've had the Harbor freight micro torch - think I paid about $9 for it years ago but it's conked out now - I used that sucker all the time. Any recommendations for a decent replacement - under $50 if possible? Reviews on Amazon are all over the place.

Thanks.

 

[Tiny Jackson]

As a plumber/pipefitter professionally, I use TURBOTORCH for every application except for cutting steel. Then I use Victor.

Turbotorch models I recommend

Full hose models:

Acetylene: 0386-0832 PL-5ADLX-MC

Propane:0386-0006 LP-3

These models have at least 6 tip sizes depending on application,

Also use this model:

TurboTorch 0386-1293 ​