Which styles of torch on hand...

[burnt bacon]

I picked up the standard propane torch, with the large canister, works good. But, what do you guys like for a smaller, more concentrated flame, for heating up small fittings or first burn for a mantle...?

I know there are the small culinary-style ones, which Isuspect is be the way to go, still would like to know the best choice/brand...Thanks!

[Gunhippie]

I like my little Bernzomatic butane torch: https://www.homelectrical.com/3-1-trigg ... 4UQAvD_BwE

Not cheap, but good quality. I wish I could say as much for their BBQ lighters, but they're junk.

[JimL]

Ignoring brands, the first you mention is propane, the second is butane. Propane is hotter, but more importantly, is a much higher pressure. Using a propane torch on a mantle is much more likely to destroy it. Butane is great for more concentrated work, such as soldering, or heating smaller areas. I find uses for both, but primarily use the butane torch. For burning in a mantle, you're really better off with a match or lighter without a torch flame.

[zoomkat]

The below size torch is handy for working on small parts. Big torches can actually damage the small things. Pencil torches, and even the "jet" cigarette lighters, might be used on the really small things.

https://www.harborfreight.com/butane-mi ... 63170.html

[Deanofid]

For little jobs, I use the Bernzomatic one exactly like the one Timm Gunhippie shows in his link. The only difference in his and mine are the colored accent pieces on mine are red rather than blue, but same exact torch. I've had this one for over 10 years, and the quality is very good. It's never failed me for the small soldering jobs I do, and it is also quite good for burning in mantles. Worth the $35 price, for sure. Refills with common butane lighter fuel.

[burnt bacon]

Thanks for the info and the links...! One thing I discovered after looking at the threads here is that there are pros and cons to just about anything...nothing like an informed decision.

[burnt bacon]

Propane is hotter, but more importantly, is a much higher pressure. Using a propane torch on a mantle is much more likely to destroy it.

Thanks, I figured that would be the case.

[Gunhippie]

When I'm using the little Bernzo to light mantles for the initial burn-in, I hold it at least 3-4 inches away from the mantles, and use it only to ensure that the mantles are evenly lit.

[burnt bacon]

When I'm using the little Bernzo to light mantles for the initial burn-in, I hold it at least 3-4 inches away from the mantles, and use it only to ensure that the mantles are evenly lit.

For sure you'd need to be careful, not sure I'm that adventurous. With the globe off, I think one of those long, butane, multi-purpose lighters they sell everywhere would be fine for mantles, too. Can't wait to try it.

[Wpavlis]

I have one of these. Works great for lots of things. I always bring it camping with me.

https://sotooutdoors.com/product/pocket ... e_lighter/

[burnt bacon]

I have one of these. Works great for lots of things. I always bring it camping with me.

https://sotooutdoors.com/product/pocket ... e_lighter/

Thanks for the link. That device is very interesting, can be filled with a butane canister with adapter. I have a few of those canisters since I have camp burner that uses them. Probaby more economical compared to the others.

[JimL]

>>That device is very interesting, can be filled with a butane canister with adapter.

Are you sure you need an adapter? Based on the pic, it looks like it's being filled straight from the butane canister. If that's in fact a butane canister like those used for the tabletop stoves, then yes, they're really cheap.

[burnt bacon]

>>That device is very interesting, can be filled with a butane canister with adapter.

Are you sure you need an adapter? Based on the pic, it looks like it's being filled straight from the butane canister. If that's in fact a butane canister like those used for the tabletop stoves, then yes, they're really cheap.

No I’m not sure, but the site had a picture of the adapter in use. I may not have that right.

[25_502s]

I bought this little Dremel. 7 in one butane torch. A little pricey but very handy.

[Wpavlis]

I have one of these. Works great for lots of things. I always bring it camping with me.

https://sotooutdoors.com/product/pocket ... e_lighter/

Thanks for the link. That device is very interesting, can be filled with a butane canister with adapter. I have a few of those canisters since I have camp burner that uses them. Probaby more economical compared to the others.

You actually put a disposable lighter inside it. It just depresses the button on the lighter and uses the butane coming out to fuel the torch. Takes 2 seconds to put a new lighter in. If for some reason you want a regular lighter, just take it out. I got mine at REI but you can get it elsewhere.

[burnt bacon]

Thanks all...