Decent propane torch?

   / Decent propane torch? #1  

dstig1

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We use a basic propane torch to light our fireplace, as it works great, but they are all so cheap chiwanese junk now that they don't last and our current one is refusing to start very well now. I'm looking for the type that is directly on the tank (no hose) and has a self igniter. Anyone know a good brand/source? And Bernzomatic don't seem to be it anymore...

And no, I am not going to use a separate classic flint igniter as my wife lights the fire as often as I do, and no way she can coordinate those 2 motions... Heck I have a hard enough time with that on my Oxy Propane cutting torch.
 
   / Decent propane torch? #2  
I have two; an ancient piezo-electric long handled igniter for lighting BBQs or stoves (free), and an old Bernzomatic picked up at a garage sale that I use frequently.

All metal no battery igniter (14.5")

Ever consider adding a push button piezo igniter from a BBQ?

All the best,

Peter
 
   / Decent propane torch?
  • Thread Starter
#3  
Perhaps I was not clear. This one has an igniter. It just ain't ignitin' anymo'... The clicker does not engage maybe 1 in 5 clicks, if lucky, and it took a few clicks to light when it was working OK. I guess what I am looking for is a durable igniter...
 
   / Decent propane torch? #4  
Got the "standard Bernzomatic" trigger button on the stick - which works pretty well - but sensitive to flow (too much) https://www.amazon.com/Worthington-...f6f-afac-d3667c0adf5a&pd_rd_i=B004FPZACE&th=1

Then have the old standby flint igniter and regular propane tank too - I prefer the Bernzomatic one hand one - but I use it maybe 8-10 times a year - not multiple times a day like a plumber would. But with PEX soldering copper pipe is not done much anymore.

there's other ones out there - RTOO one hand button operation too, For the $ 15-25$ buying a new one isnt a big expense.
 
   / Decent propane torch? #5  
All I can say is my Bernzomatic has been going strong since 2004. Do try to get one with swirl head. They used to call them a turbo torch in the 80s when I first bought one of that type. They are very much hotter than the old style propane torches.
 
   / Decent propane torch? #6  
The Bernzomatic turbo torches or whatever their current model is should be pretty reliable, the non adjustable one would be the best for that use... Harbor Freight just started making a copy of that in the last year, haven't looked at the ratings on it...
 
   / Decent propane torch?
  • Thread Starter
#7  
I ended up buying a Magtorch brand. I have another of theirs for MAPP gas for plumbing work and it has been reliable, so I figured I'd give this one a shot for $15. I don't need anything fancy for this - it's just for lighting the fireplace. A lot easier and more reliable method than a match...as long as the clicker works and the torch lights up. I might just have to live with these being semi-disposable. time will tell...
 
   / Decent propane torch? #8  
Check this one out.


You can get it on Amazon. It’s not your father’s torch, to borrow a phrase. Bought one 2 years ago. Definitely worth the price.
 
   / Decent propane torch?
  • Thread Starter
#9  
There we go! That's what I was looking to find here. Thanks!
 
   / Decent propane torch? #10  
You can get it on Amazon. It’s not your father’s torch, to borrow a phrase. Bought one 2 years ago. Definitely worth the price.
Definitely not.
Loved the true MAPP gas that burned at over 5,000 degrees F. Only got to use it a little before it was discontinued in 2008.
wicki
 
   / Decent propane torch? #11  
Definitely not.
Loved the true MAPP gas that burned at over 5,000 degrees F. Only got to use it a little before it was discontinued in 2008.
wicki
Yes, I also miss the original MAPP gas. Over the years, I have scored a few cans of the original gas at garage sales. I try to save it for when I really want/need the heat. Someone did point out to me that using a TIG welder was a great alternative for many things, I just had to shift my thinking of it from "welding tool" to "heat source".

All the best,

Peter
 
   / Decent propane torch? #12  
Years ago Tractor Supply had these on closeout for a few bucks. I liked it so much I bought a second one for the camper. It was made by Mr Torch and this is a picture of mine. 20250202_100214[1].jpg
 
   / Decent propane torch? #13  
There we go! That's what I was looking to find here. Thanks!
I use a piezo butane torch for small soldering jobs and lighting the stove. Works well and the blazer brand I got ten years ago still works but they’re pricey. The copycat is more reasonably priced. They’re refillable and much easier to wield around especially for smaller hands.
 

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