1. Lincoln Electric KH825-01
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Lincoln Electric KH825-01
Specifications:
- Dimension: 43.5” in length, 6” in width, 1.5” in diameter
- Weight: 5 lbs.
- Gas hose included:
- Tank compatibility: Standard 20 lbs. propane tank
- Power: 500.000 BTU
- Auto-ignition:
- Adjustable Flame:
It packs
500,000 BTU, and it is compatible with 20, 50, or 100 lbs. propane containers. Since it delivers such a massive heat output, it’s ideal for large applications that involve intense heat for outsized surfaces, like burning weeds, melting ice, removing paint, roofing, or sanitizing metallic items. You can use it in your household when you want to clean the garden and rid it of the remaining branches after ridding the weeds.
It is equipped with a solid brass-made flow valve to allow you to command the output, and it has a 10-foot long hose so you can comfortably use it without bending. The total length reaches 43.5 inches while the tip diameter measures 2.5 inches. It is lightweight while being made of solid steel that provides resistance to high temperatures.
The molded handle, extended at 39” long, provides a comfortable and strong grip. The ignition is manual, with a free striker included, to enable you to light it up in mere seconds. For added safety, a quick shut-off protection valve instantly turns off the flame in case the gas flow is interrupted. A protection period of 1 year is provided by the manufacturer, in the event of anything going wrong while using it.
If you want another means of getting rid of tree branches, you can complete your toolshed with an
electric wood chipper. This machine can turn useless wood into nutrient debris and wood pellets you can use for your heating system.
PROS
- Output control
- Extended heat
- Easy to use
- Quick shut-off valve
CONS
- Doesn’t have auto ignition
- There were some complaints it doesn’t stay lit while idle
VERDICT
It is a powerful 500,000BTU torch that will allow you to quickly take care of any weeds, pavement cracks, or stubborn iced snow. It is comprehensive and easily maneuverable, as it comes with a quick shut-off valve and a flame control valve. However, you will have to ignite it manually, as it doesn’t have an automatic ignition system.
2. Red Dragon VT 3-30 C
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Specifications:
- Dimension: 33 ½ ” in length, 3” in diameter
- Weight: 3.9 lbs.
- Gas hose included:
- Tank compatibility: Standard 20 lbs. propane tank
- Power: 500.000 BTU
- Auto-ignition:
- Adjustable Flame:
It has an
output of 500,000 BTUs, making it powerful and reliable, so it can be used for professional construction sites or at home. The bell measures 3 inches in diameter, while its full length is 33-1/2′′. Additionally, it includes a 10′ gas hose, to allow you versatility in moving around.
The adaptable gauge valve lets you control the flame, and it incorporates a spark lighter, as well as a pipe thread composite for quick manual ignition. It features a safety valve, which will immediately stop the gas flow if the hose breaks, and it can be used with any propane barrel of 20 pounds or larger.
PROS
- Hassle-free utilization and assembly
- Large diameter bell
- Adjustable flame
- It provides an intense heat
CONS
- Some complained about it being difficult to start
- The handle is not very comfortable to grab
VERDICT
It provides you with a quick and powerful way to get rid of weeds, melt snow or mend asphalt cracks. It comes with an adjustable flame valve, thus you can always control the heat intensity, and it has a safety valve that will stop the gas if the hose breaks. The manual start might give you a little trouble, but you will soon get the hang of it.
3. Hot Max 500G
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Specifications:
- Dimension: 43.2” in length, 10.1” in width, 3” in diameter
- Weight: 7.33 lbs.
- Gas hose included:
- Tank compatibility: Standard 20 lbs. propane tank
- Power: 500.000 BTU
- Auto-ignition:
- Adjustable Flame:
Despite being
quite heavy for a torch, its weight going to up 7.33 lb., it is comprehensive and applicable to any household or industrial task. It measures 43.2 inches in length, 10.1 inches in depth, and 3 inches in width it has a molded grip for more control and comfort while it comes fully assembled so you don’t have to worry about putting it together.
It has an impressive 500,000 BTU output, making it a powerful addition to any tools kit. Able to switch between two levels, the standard one will generate a good, steady flame, while its turbo mode will offer you extra heat power. It burns clean and with high efficiency in using propane, leaving no caustic chemicals behind. Thus, it is a great tool for home, farm, industrial, and construction use. Its 10′ LP gas hose offers the user freedom in movements while the flint striker ensures easy lighting.
PROS
- Burns clean and effective
- No caustic chemicals
- Portable design with extended hose
- Great heat output
CONS
- Some complained about the lever on the handle not working correctly
- There were some complaints about it not fitting smaller-scale jobs
VERDICT
A powerful and heavy tool, it is extremely effective whether you wish to use it for your house, your farm, or in industry and construction. It has a molded grip, to provide you with a better hold, and it allows you to easily switch between 2 levels, so you can adjust the heat output according to your needs.
4. Mag-Torch MT 5000
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Specifications:
- Dimension: 116” in length, 3” in diameter
- Weight: 4 lbs.
- Gas hose included:
- Tank compatibility: Standard 20 lbs. propane tank
- Power: 500.000 BTU
- Auto-ignition:
- Adjustable Flame:
This one is
an outsized version that measures 116 inches in length, from the nozzle tip to handle, the handle has 36 inches in length, has a 3-inch diameter, and it weighs 4 pounds. It delivers 500,000 BTU, and it can be paired up with a standard 20lbs. propane container. CSA-accredited, it has a 61-inch long hose, to allow you freedom and increased maneuverability. It is advised to apply it only outdoors. Moreover, it has a spark lighter included, for increased safety and easy start.
It has a beginner-friendly mechanism, which incorporates a safety valve, to prevent any potential accidents from happening. The handle also incorporates a knob, which permits you to check and regulate the flame intensity. However, you should wear protective gear when you use it since the handle can become quite hot. Additionally, it has a limited 1-year warranty from the moment of your purchase.
PROS
- Adjustable flame
- Hassle-free utilization
- Lightweight design for portability
- Increased heat intensity
CONS
- It doesn’t include a trigger
- The hose is smaller than of other models
VERDICT
It is strong enough to melt asphalt, thus you should only use it while outdoors, but it also incorporates an adaptable valve that enables you to select the output. However, it doesn’t include a trigger or a cool-to-touch handle, so you will have to be cautious and wear protective gear while handling it.
5. Forney 1723 Uni-Flame
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Specifications:
- Dimension: 36” in length, 11.8” in width, 4.5” in diameter
- Weight: 5.15 lbs.
- Gas hose included:
- Tank compatibility: Standard 20 lbs. propane tank
- Power: 500.000 BTU
- Auto-ignition:
- Adjustable Flame:
This heavy-duty torch has a 500,000 BTU output, so you can quickly repair cracks, weld, or melt ice. It can be connected to any 20 lbs. propane canister– the tank is not included – and, once you start it, there will be no weeds that can stand in your way. Moreover, the
adjustable flow valve will ensure you will always be in control of the flame and its intensity.
It has a long reach, 36 inches, so you won’t have to bend in uncomfortable positions to reach the weeds. The 10-feet long cord adds to its hassle-free use. Eco-friendly, it doesn’t leave any chemical residue behind, so the soil will not be affected after its use. It is created from heavy-duty steel, which is immune to rust and corrosion. Since it includes a striker, you will be able to quickly turn it on manually. It is light, at 5.15 pounds, so it is highly portable.
PROS
- Adjustable flame output
- Lightweight, easily portable
- Long reach due to the long hose
- Hefty heat intensity
CONS
- Reportedly, the flame is not very steady
- It requires manual ignition
VERDICT
Easy to use, as it can be lifted with ease and has a long reach, there will be no job it can’t handle. It has a power of 500,000 BTUs and it comes with a control valve to allow you to adjust the flame to your needs. Some users have complained that the flame tends to turn off frequently while in use.
6. Idealgas FXNOR171725
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Specifications:
- Dimension: 22” in length, 3” in diameter
- Weight:N/A
- Gas hose included:
- Tank compatibility: Standard 20 lbs. propane tank
- Power: 450.000 BTU
- Auto-ignition:
- Adjustable Flame:
It has a handle measuring 22 inches in length, while its hose length is 32 feet. It is compatible with any propane tank of 20 pounds, and it
has an automatic igniter to allow you to quickly get a steady flame to help you take care of any type of weeds or unwanted vegetation. It doesn’t require an adapter, so it can be directly hooked to any grill tank. Moreover, it has an output of 450.000 BTU, thus more than enough to take care of any asphalt cracks you need to mend or even brazing two pieces of metal together.
Additionally, it has an adaptable flame and a fireproof handle that won’t become hot to touch. Plus, it comes with a safety valve that will make sure to stop the gas flow if the hose breaks, and it has a turbo burner that can reach 2,000F if you need even more firepower.
PROS
- Automatic ignition
- Adjustable flame
- Fireproof handle
- Very long hose to use on a wide surface
CONS
- There were some complaints about the flame output
- It often misses igniting on its own
VERDICT
Easy to maneuver around, it provides you with enough firepower to help you get rid of annoying weeds, or mend cracks in the asphalt. It has a fireproof handle, so it won’t become hot-to-touch as you utilize it, and it has a flexible flame output to enable you to always be in control.
7. Red Dragon VT2-23 C
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Specifications:
- Dimension:36” in length, 12” in width, 3” in diameter
- Weight: 3.57 lbs.
- Gas hose included:
- Tank compatibility : Standard 20 lbs. propane tank
- Power: 100.000 BTU
- Auto-ignition:
- Adjustable Flame :
It measures 11 x 12 x 36 inches while it is easily fastened to any tank of 20lb, and can also be utilized for clearing raised garden beds. With
an adjustable volume control knob included, you can adjust the strength, customizing it to the situation you are utilizing it for. The powerful flame can produce up to 2,000 degrees F, whereas its design requires no additional gear to function.
Specially created for homeowners or landscapers, packing up to 100.000BTUs, it hinders the weeds from your garden while helping you diminish the mowing time of the yard. Moreover, it aids to reduce the risk of biochemical silt and run-off, thus it is a safe choice for your lawn, pets, and family. You don’t have to utilize chemicals in hard-to-reach places, as its 23′′ handle and 10 ft. gas hose can approach every corner with precision and optimal coverage.
PROS
- Includes a complete kit
- Hassle-free installation
- Multi-use
- Ideal for small-scale applications
CONS
- The ignition is manual
- The heat output is not very impressive
VERDICT
If you are not in the search of a high-power torch, this is an excellent choice. It provides you with the ability to choose the intensity of the flame you wish to apply, and it will reduce residues and run-offs. Thus, it is safe to utilize to get rid of weeds or to quickly clean the ice from your path.
8. Bernzomatic BZ8250HT
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Specifications:
- Dimension: 13.7” in length, 10.8” in width, 4” in diameter
- Weight: 2.05 lbs.
- Gas hose included:
- Tank compatibility: 14 oz. propane tank or 16.9 oz MAPP
- Power: N/A
- Auto-ignition:
- Adjustable Flame:
It is
a compact torch that measures a total of 13.7”, with a 10” handle that provides a tight grip. It is furnished with a 5′ hose, for high convenience and mobility in utilizing it. Plus, its trigger makes it more comfortable to be handled with one hand, as it only weighs 2.05 lbs, while its adjustable knob offers you more precision and accuracy. With its solid brass regulator which is pressure-based, you can be sure the flame will maintain itself constantly, no matter the direction in which you decide to turn your tool.
Powered by gas while using an arc-welding installation method, the torch is equipped with a run-lock button for constant use. The small handle doesn’t recommend it for large applications as you can’t remain far away from the flame. However, it is suitable for welding, pipe bending, or on-spot weed burning. An important aspect is the lifetime protection offered by the reputable brand, so you can confide in the efficiency of the product.
PROS
- Hassle-free maneuverability
- Covered by a lifetime protection
- Easy flame control
- Trigger igniter
CONS
- Some complained about the valve not working properly
- The handle is not very long
VERDICT
Easy to use and control, with a high range of utility, it makes your job more enjoyable, offering you precision and a steady flame at all times. It has a run-lock button for perpetual control, and it has an adaptable flame knob for more precision and control.
9. Bernzomatic JT850
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Specifications:
- Dimension: 39” in length, 8” in width, 2” in diameter
- Weight: 2.8 lbs.
- Gas hose included:
- Tank compatibility: MAPP 16 oz or standard propane
- Power: 20.000 BTU
- Auto-ignition:
- Adjustable Flame:
It measures 39 inches in length, 8 inches in width, and 2 inches in depth, while weighing only 2.8 pounds, therefore it will pose no issue in moving it around. Not only can it be highly useful for getting rid of weeds and dead leaves, but it also works wonders when used to start a barbeque fire, or melt ice. The 20,000 BTU is not very impressive, compared to the more powerful competitors, but it’s enough for
small-scale applications, including wood burning.
The short handle provides great control over the torch and the flame, so you can moderate the level of burning on the wood piece. Constructed of metal, with its tip made of brass, it is time-resistant, and it burns both propane and MAPP gas. It has an integrated trigger-start mechanism for a flexible flame control, with a reach of 36”. Additionally, do not store it in rooms where temperatures exceed 120F. It enjoys the same lifetime protection offered by Bernzomatic for all its products.
PROS
- Burns clean and efficient
- Portable and very easy to control
- Trigger-start ignition
- Ideal for quick tasks like lighting a barbeque
CONS
- Some complained about it not staying lit up
- There were some complaints about it being hard to start up
VERDICT
A powerful yet lightweight tool, it is extremely effective in taking care of your weeds or frozen walkway ice. Although it can be used with propane and another type of gas, alike, the choice you make won’t impede the flame control provided by the integrated trigger.
10. Houseables WTO-BK-39IN-FBA
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Houseables WTO-BK-39IN-FBA
Specifications:
- Dimension: 37” in length, 10” in width, 1” in diameter
- Weight: 1.95 lbs.
- Gas hose included:
- Tank compatibility: MAPP 16oz or standard propane
- Power: 20.000 BTU
- Auto-ignition:
- Adjustable Flame:
Small jobs require small tools, so don’t think that this compact torch is less effective due to its limited dimensions. The handle measures 34” long and the
total length reaches 37”, ideal for gardening tasks or quick pipe fixing. It doesn’t have a hose; all you have to do is fasten a small propane or MAPP tank to its end and press the trigger to activate the flame. It produces a 20.000 BTU flame which is quickly adaptable, offering aid in outdoor activities like weeding, repairing, and grilling or firing pit combustions. You can adjust the heat intensity as you wish using the control knob.
Due to the same hose-free design, it is very easy to maneuver and transport to any location that might need quick fixing. Made to have a lightweight feel to its slip-resistant, foam-padded grip, it offers a balance between comfort and effectiveness in your activity. With its long reach, 34 inches, you won’t have to bend or crouch to reach the areas infected by the weeds.
PROS
- Risk-free operation
- Convenient design
- Easy to ignite and control
CONS
- Some complained about the wand melting
- There were some complaints about it not being too effective
VERDICT
A good alternative to chemicals, this tool will improve your gardening experience and effectiveness in dealing with unwanted but resilient weeds. The quick-start offers a safe way to obtain and control the flame, whereas the long reach won’t have you crouching to reach weed-infested areas.
11. CSE Push-Start Torch
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Specifications:
- Dimension: 28.6” in length and 4.3” in diameter
- Weight: 3.9 pounds
- Gas hose included:
- Tank compatibility: Standard, 20lbs propane tank
- Power: 3000°F
- Auto-ignition:
- Adjustable flame:
Another small version to help you around the house for small tasks involving weeds or perhaps a frozen pathway, this torch offers the advantage of effortless portability. It
self-ignites and although the output is not stated, the flame reaches around 3,000 F, so it’s a heavy-duty model. It measures 36” in length so it is long enough to provide you with comfortable use, keeping away the back pains. It can be simply added to any standard, 20 lbs. propane canister, thanks to its OPD valve, while it will provide you with a controlled flame.
The flow valve will regulate the magnitude of the fire according to your needs, while the turbo blast trigger offers a boost whenever you want to apply more power. Its small weight, 3.9 pounds, combined with its stay-cool-handle and push-start ignition will provide you with hassle-free maneuverability, while its 6.5-foot hose enables you extensive reach.
PROS
- Comprehensive design
- Stay-cool handle
- Hose included
- Self-ignition for a quick start
CONS
- The trigger often misses igniting the flame
- A safety valve was not added
VERDICT
It offers hassle-free maneuverability thanks to its light weight, stay-cool handle, and long hose. The valve button allows you to easily set it up according to your needs and preferences. Moreover, it incorporates a turbo boost function, for more intensive use.
The Difference between Propane & Butane Torches
Torches are essential tools that should never be absent from your home, regardless of your location. Despite coming in different shapes, sizes and with a multitude of uses for a large variety of activities, the most frequently used ones, always in a ‘friendly rivalry’ with one another are those that use either butane or propane gas to work.
While there are some similarities between the two gases, as they are derived from the same substance, petroleum, and both of them release the same elements when they burn, this is not where they show their true potential. Their differences are the ones that you have to pay attention to when you decide to invest in a new torch.
-
Fire Power
One of the most important aspects of your torch is its firepower and its heat level. Butane torches can reach up only to 2400 degrees F while propane ones can burn higher, going up to 3600 degrees F. Moreover, not only their flames are complex, but the tanks required by each type are different, so this is also something you must consider. Butane tanks are smaller and lighter than propane ones, as the former ones are also easier to store and keep than the latter ones.
-
Fire Accuracy
Depending on how precise you want to be, you ought to pay attention to how it is performed. Propane types tend to employ an inwardly curved head that concentrates the flame into one spot. Because of this, you should keep in mind the proximity in which the flame is situated in correspondence to the object you want to burn. The closer the flame, the more precision you have over it, and, thus, the greater the temperature. A butane type has a straight head, emitting a full flame at any given moment. The only way in which you can master the temperature, lowering or heightening it, is by using the torch’s trigger.
-
Uses
Usually, they have a complementary nature, butane and propane torches supplying a new way of handling different actions. For example, butane torches are small in size, portable, and extremely straightforward to handle. They are employed by chefs while cooking, or whenever a small, easy-to-maneuver flame is in need. Propane types tend to be larger, heavier, and are used, frequently outdoors, for gardening, in construction, or for different industries.
While butane is less expensive than propane and provides at least 12% more energy than its counterpart, it is not exactly useful in cold weather, as its boiling point is 30.2 F. When the temperature goes below, it will stay in a liquid-like form and will not have enough power to ignite. This is where propane shines, though, as its boiling point is lower, -43.6 F, thus it can be used even in cold weather. Plus, propane is easier to get a hold of than butane, thus people usually prefer to rotate the gases’ use according to seasons: in summer – butane, in winter – propane.
To sum up, butane torches are useful mostly in warm climates, are more comfortable to handle and smaller in size, thus used frequently indoors, while propane types work well in winter, too, are larger and heavier than their counterparts and are, most of the times, used outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does a propane torch not stay lit?
Check for interruptions along the hose, or perhaps the valve is blocked and doesn’t receive gas.
Can it melt copper?
Almost any torch will be hot enough to melt copper.
Can propane burners explode?
Using any fuel other than Propane with this type of burner may cause a fire or explosion. To avoid such a tragic situation, never store with the torch attached to the gas tank.
Why is the flame on my propane torch orange?
(The color orange indicates incomplete combustion.
How hot does it get?
It is highly dependent on the fuel-oxygen ratio, as well as the propane that is used. An air-only torch can reach 1995 C – 3623 F respectively, while oxygen-fed torches tend to go up to 2820 C – 5110 F.
Why does my torch lighter sputter?
In case you have old fuel in the tank, or perhaps air, it will be hard to maintain a clean, nice light, causing the flame to flicker.
How do I make it burn hotter?
More fuel and more air will provide you with more BTUs, therefore making your torch burn hotter. If you want to work with metal, you’ll need a steady flame, with adjustable pressure, and for that, you can try to either make a forge burner by yourself or, simply buy one.
How do I light it?
It depends on the type of torch you have. If you have a mini torch with only an adjustable pressure valve, then you’ll have to use a lighter, place the flame directly under the torch’s tip and slowly turn the valve to allow propane to reach the lighter. It will produce a small flame, which you will be able to adjust to your liking. Or simply use the sparker your propane tank comes with. Additionally, there are several models on the market that come with a push-button igniter, which will surely simplify the process. Open the gas and press the button and the flame will appear.
How do I use it?
It depends on your needs. Make sure you wear safety gear first before you decide to tackle any job. Turn it on, and, depending on the torch model and the task at hand you can start to work. You can use it for cleaning up weeds, mending asphalt cracks, welding pipes or items, or, even create jewelry and food.
How long will a propane burner last?
It depends on several factors such as the size of the gas tank and the outside temperature. On average, a torch hooked to a 20-lb. gas tank will last between 45 minutes and 2 hours, depending on how intense you release the flame.
Conclusion
Now you know how versatile propane-powered torches can be and how many tasks you can accomplish with one. While all the above-mentioned products can aid you in getting rid of your ice or weeds problems or can help to weld, some of them differentiate from the others through some features:
Best Overall:
Lincoln Electric KH825-01
Compatible with several types of propane tanks, 20, 50, and even 100-lb, Lincoln’s Electric KH825-01 comes equipped with a control valve, which allows you to set the flame output according to your needs and preferences. Thanks to its 10-inch long hose, you’ll have plenty of freedom, while its comfortable strong grip will make sure it never gets too hot for your hands. The quick shut-off safety valve will provide you a fast way to shut it off in case of emergency, while its 7-year warranty ensures you’ll get a sturdy and durable product.
Editor’s Choice:
Red Dragon VT 3-30 C
We mainly liked the increased power of this burner that can create a steady and long flame intended to be used in a wide range of household and industrial tasks. It ignites in mere seconds using the included striker, offering a steady flame that can melt asphalt, weld, burn weeds, or thaw iced snow. You enjoy freedom in movement and will remain out of the flame’s reach due to the extended hose and long handle. Plus, the safety valve ensures any malfunction will never occur as it will turn off the gas supply.
Best Propane Torch for Weeds:
Forney 1723 Uni-Flame
Nasty weeds that are hard to eradicate need a powerful torch that can burn extended surfaces without causing harm to the environment. This particular model has an extended flame output and a generous hose that enables you to reach even the tightest corners, ensuring unwanted grass will have vanished. It ignites manually and you have full control over the intensity, thus adapting it to the gravity of the situation.
Best Propane Torch for Wood Burning:
Bernzomatic JT850
Burning wood for aesthetic purposes is a common practice found in woodworkers who want to offer their clients unique pieces of furniture or decoration. An optimal torch for the task is the JT850 from Bernzomatic that is incredibly easy to maneuver due to the firm grip. The handle is not very long, so you will get increased control over the flame, guiding it over the wood’s surface without causing deep burns.
Best Propane Torch for the Money:
Idealgas FXNOR171725
It’s not always true that you get what you pay for, as this reliable burner doesn’t break the bank but still provides quality and safety in use. It is a powerful unit that can deliver 450,000 BTU intensity, enough to deal with harsh tasks around the house. It has a very long hose for increased mobility, so you can reach farther areas that might need weed extinction or perhaps some welding. Not only it ignites automatically with the push of a trigger, but you will also get complete control over the flame’s intensity.