Propane is one of the safest gasses to use when welding, brazing, soldering and preheating metal. It burns hot, and if you add oxygen, you get an even stronger flame.
It is an ideal home welding method and a cost-effective way for the professional looking for a budget-friendly option.
We look at the 10 best propane torches money can buy.
- Auto start & stop
- Flame adjuster knob
- Pressure regulated
- Connects to canister
- Unique design
- Large flame
- Super-detailed soldering
- Designed for jewelry making
- Lightweight & balanced
- Ergonomic handle design
- 10 ft hose
- Propane detection valve
- Compact but highly powerful
- Versatile purpose
- Adjustable flame control
- Compact & lightweight
- Stainless steel construction
- Anti-topple base
- Auto-start
- Ideal for small diameter soldering
- Fine to medium flame
Product Reviews
There are many types of propane torches, catering to many applications. Narrowing the search to 10 was a challenge.
Bernzomatic TS8000 High-Intensity Trigger Torch
Best Trigger Start Propane Torch
Bernzomatic torches are some of the best in the business. This model is packed with technological advancements like auto start and stop, which allow you to light and extinguish the flame with the press of a button.
It also benefits from a flame adjustment knob for working with different materials and applications. The body is made from cast aluminum, and the gas is pressure regulated for multi-positional use. This torch is ideal for light welding, brazing, soldering and preheating.
The quality of this torch speaks for itself, and it will likely last you a lifetime. It even has a lock to use the torch with your fingers free of the trigger.
Pros
- Auto start and stop.
- Flame adjuster knob.
- Pressure regulated.
- High quality cast aluminum.
Cons
- A little heavy.
Product Specs
Weight (pounds) | 1.2 |
Dimensions (inches) | 1.91 x 5.25 x 12.25 |
Flame adjuster | Yes |
Auto start/stop | Yes |
Additional tips | No |
Price | $$ |
Warranty | Limited lifetime |
Our Ratings
JJ George Grill Torch Charcoal Starter
Best Propane Torch for Lighting Charcoal
This torch is designed for lighting charcoal, but it has other uses. It is very effective at preheating metal thanks to the large flame. There is no hose with this torch as it connects directly to the gas canister.
It has a built-in ignition, which makes it a breeze to light, and you can select the flame size to cater to the project. You will struggle with high-heat applications like brazing because the flame size is still too large, even on the lowest setting.
This torch excels at lighting wood, charcoal and preheating metals.
Pros
- Adjustable flame.
- Autostart.
- Connects to a canister.
- Unique design.
- Large flame.
Cons
- Limited uses.
- Not ideal for brazing.
- Better for smaller tasks.
Product Specs
Weight (pounds) | 15.2 ounces |
Dimensions (inches) | 21 x 2 x 4 |
Flame adjuster | Yes |
Auto start/stop | Autostart |
Additional tips | No |
Price | $ |
Warranty | 1-year |
Our Ratings
Bernzomatic TS4000 trigger-Start Propane Torch
Best Propane Torch for Soldering
This is a high-heat torch, designed for many different applications. It is particularly effective at soldering large copper pipes, as well as brazing and heat treating. Like the previous Bernzomatic torch featured, this has a trigger start, making it safer and more convenient to light the flame.
It also has the same auto-stop feature, flame adjuster knob, and a run lock, which means you can use the torch with both hands-free of the trigger. Plus, it has a cast aluminum body to increase the longevity of the torch.
Pros
- Run lock.
- Flame adjuster.
- Autostart, and stop.
- Cast aluminum body.
Cons
- Slightly heavy.
- Not good with smaller projects.
Product Specs
Weight (pounds) | 1.25 |
Dimensions (inches) | 5.5 x 1.75 x 13 |
Flame adjuster | Yes |
Auto start/stop | Yes |
Additional tips | No |
Price | $ |
Warranty | Limited lifetime |
Our Ratings
Miller Weld Smith Little Welding Kit and 5 Tips
Best Propane Torch for Jewelry Making
If you are into jewelry making and general crafting, this is a great addition to your toolkit. It has a thread-thin flame that can generate 6,000 degrees Fahrenheit, and it melts 3 ounces of silver with ease.
It is the perfect tool for super-detailed brazing, melting and welding fine metals. The hoses are lightweight, and the aluminum body means this torch is balanced and weighs just 11.2 ounces. It can operate with Mapp and other gasses like propylene and oxygen, and it reaches spots that other torches can’t.
It is a jewelry-makers dream come true.
Pros
- 5 tips.
- Super-detailed soldering.
- Designed for jewelry making.
- Lightweight and balanced.
- Carry case.
Cons
- Only for detailed work.
- Limited uses.
Product Specs
Weight (pounds) | 11.2 |
Dimensions (inches) | 8.4 x 5.7 x 2.5 |
Flame adjuster | No |
Auto start/stop | No |
Additional tips | Yes (5) |
Price | $$$ |
Warranty | Not listed |
Our Ratings
BlueFire Cyclone HB-875B Propane Torch
Best Propane Torch for Brazing
This BlueFire propane torch has a cyclone flame that provides an accurate tip for detailed soldering. It also heats to 2,642 degrees Fahrenheit for multiple applications. It welds, it brazes and solders. You can even use it in the kitchen to sear steaks.
It has a trigger start ignition with a fully adjustable flame, and the torch head is designed to fit US standard 1-inch gas cylinders. It’s lightweight and super-easy to use, and it is compatible with propane, Mapp and Mapp/pro mix.
It is constructed of stainless steel for durability, and the torch weighs 8.1 ounces.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- Self-igniting.
- Flame adjuster.
- Compatible with Mapp.
- Cyclone flame.
Cons
- Better for smaller projects.
- Only light welding.
Product Specs
Weight (pounds) | 0.50 |
Dimensions (inches) | 10 x 4 x 2 |
Flame adjuster | Yes |
Auto start/stop | Autostart |
Additional tips | No |
Price | $$ |
Warranty | Not listed |
Our Ratings
Hot Max 500G Big Max Propane Torch
Best Outdoor Propane Torch
Very few propane torches compare to the Hot Max 500G. It comes fully assembled from the handle to the tip; it has a 10 ft gas hose, making it the ideal torch for using outdoors, and a renowned long flame.
The flame is ideal for weed removal, melting paint from road surfaces, and snow and ice clearance. The ergonomically designed handle is comfortable, even after long-term usage, and it has safety features like the propane detection valve to save you from gas leaks.
The valve control lets you adjust the flame, and once you have finished outdoors, this torch is excellent for preheating metal.
Pros
- Ergonomic handle design.
- 10 ft hose.
- Large flame.
- Propane detection valve.
- Multiple uses.
Cons
- Manual ignition.
- Unsuitable for gas welding.
Product Specs
Weight (pounds) | 4.8 |
Dimensions (inches) | 39 x 3 x 3 |
Flame adjuster | No (valve controlled) |
Auto start/stop | Manual |
Additional tips | No |
Price | $$ |
Warranty | 2-year limited |
Our Ratings
Ivation Trigger Start Propane Torch
Best Torch With Adjustable Flame Control
If you’re looking for something with adjustable flame control, then look no further than the Ivation trigger start propane torch. With this tool, you can use the control knob to adjust the gas intensity. This allows you to switch up the power depending on what project you’re working on. It’s super easy to turn the dial and switch it off for quick extinguishing when you’re done.
The other main feature of this torch is the fast trigger start. When you press the starter button, the flame ignites quickly and safely. This ensures you have an easy user experience and can get to work right away, whether you’re soldering, heating or welding.
Pros
- Super compact but still highly powerful.
- Versatile purpose: light welding, heating, soldering, connecting wires, and more.
- Adjustable flame control via the easy dial.
- Temperatures up to 2372°F.
- Quick trigger start for fast and safe ignition.
Cons
- Cheap plastic casing feels inexpensive.
- Customers found it didn’t shut off completely.
Product Specs
Weight (pounds) | 0.8 |
Dimensions (inches) | 4.33 x 1.89 x 9.84 |
Flame adjuster | Yes |
Auto start/stop | No |
Additional tips | No |
Price | $ |
Warranty | Limited 1-year |
Our Ratings
Bernzomatic BZ8250HT Propane Torch
Best Propane Torch for Gas Welding
This model comes with a 5 ft hose, an instant igniter for ease and convenience, and a flame control knob to select the best flame for the task. The solid brass pressure regulator enables you to use the torch in various positions without affecting the flame’s pressure, and the burn tube is stainless steel for durability.
It has a trigger lock for trigger-free operation, and it comes with a handy belt holder to store your propane canister. The angled and elongated nozzle is the perfect shape for welding and brazing, and the longer hose enables you to be more mobile than a hand-held hoseless torch.
Pros
- Auto ignite.
- Pressure regulator.
- Trigger lock.
- Belt holder.
- Flame control.
Cons
- Trigger lock hard to engage.
- Not suitable for preheating.
Product Specs
Weight (pounds) | 2.1 |
Dimensions (inches) | 4 x 10.8 x 13.7 |
Flame adjuster | Yes |
Auto start/stop | Autostart |
Additional tips | No |
Price | $$ |
Warranty | Limited lifetime |
Our Ratings
Rosle Propane/Butane Adjustable Torch
Best Kitchen Propane Torch
Sometimes in the kitchen, you need a little extra to add the finishing touches to your meals. Creme brulee wouldn’t be the same without that flame-charred top. A kitchen propane torch elevates the humble steak into a visual feat by searing it.
This Rosle adjustable torch has a flame that reaches 1,300 degrees Celsius, it has a stable base to keep it upright, and 60 minutes of continuous operation. This torch is small, easy to store away, and has an adjustable gas dial to control the size of the flame.
It is a premium quality German torch with a stainless steel body for added durability, and it even has a child-proof safety switch, should the torch fall into the wrong hands.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight.
- Flame adjuster.
- Stainless steel construction.
- Anti-topple base.
Cons
- Only suitable for the kitchen.
- Limited capacity.
Product Specs
Weight (pounds) | 9.2 ounces |
Dimensions (inches) | 5 x 3.5 x 6.7 |
Flame adjuster | Yes |
Auto start/stop | Autostart |
Additional tips | No |
Price | $$ |
Warranty | Limited lifetime |
Our Ratings
Worthington WT2301 Trigger-Start Propane Torch
Best Handheld Propane Torch
This Worthington torch attaches directly to the propane tank, so it is compact and portable. It has an auto-ignite feature that kicks in when you turn the gas valve on and press the trigger. It lacks a flame adjustment knob; instead, the control comes from the gas flow through the valve.
It’s an ideal torch for soldering, brazing and most of your welding needs. The nozzle is angled in a way that makes it easy to get into hard to reach spots, increasing your versatility. The nozzle is on the short side, so be careful because the trigger is near the end of the torch.
Unlike some models, this torch is only compatible with propane canisters and cannot be used with other gas options. It isn’t the highest quality torch, but it is a good low-price option if you have a limited budget.
Pros
- Affordable.
- Auto-start.
- Compact and portable.
- Ideal for small diameter soldering.
- Fine to medium flame.
Cons
- Only use with propane.
- Lesser quality.
- Short nozzle.
Product Specs
Weight (pounds) | 2.24 ounces |
Dimensions (inches) | 1.38 x 4.56 x 9.91 |
Flame adjuster | No (valve controlled) |
Auto-start/stop | Auto-start |
Additional tips | No |
Price | $ |
Warranty | 3-year Limited |
Our Ratings
Product | Best | Weight | Dimensions | Flame adjuster | Auto/Manual | Warranty |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bernzomatic High-Intensity Trigger Torch | Trigger Start | 1 lb | 1.91 x 5.25 x 12.25″ | Yes | Auto | Limited lifetime |
JJ George Grill Torch Charcoal Starter | Lighting Charcoal | 15.2 oz | 21 x 2 x 4″ | Yes | Auto | 1-year |
Bernzomatic trigger-Start Propane Torch | Soldering | 1 lb | 5.5 x 1.75 x 13″ | Yes | Auto | Limited lifetime |
Miller Weld Smith Little Welding Kit | Jewelry Making | 11 lbs | 8.4 x 5.7 x 2.5″ | No | Manual | Not listed |
BlueFire Cyclone Propane Torch | Brazing | 8.1 oz | 10 x 4 x 2″ | Yes | Auto | Not listed |
Hot Max 500G Big Max Propane Torch | Outdoor Use | 4.8 lbs | 39 x 3 x 3″ | No | Manual | 2-year limited |
Ivation Trigger Start | Adjustable Flame Control | 0.8 lbs | 4.33 x 1.89 x 9.84″ | Yes | No | 1-year limited |
Bernzomatic BZ8250HT Propane Torch | Gas Welding | 2.1 lbs | 4 x 10.8 x 13.7″ | Yes | Auto | Limited lifetime |
Rosle Propane/Butane Adjustable Torch | Kitchen Use | 9.2 oz | 5 x 3.5 x 6.7″ | Yes | Auto | Limited lifetime |
Worthington Trigger-Start Propane Torch | Handheld | 2.24 oz | 1.38 x 4.56 x 9.91″ | No | Auto | 3-year Limited |
What Is a Propane Torch Used For?
A propane torch is used for brazing, soldering, welding and preheating metal, but there are other uses for a propane torch. You can use them to kill weeds on your driveway. You can use them to soften plastic pipes, and they even melt paint from roads and parking lots.
Melting rope is another use. It stops the rope from fraying at the ends. You can also light a campfire or barbecue with a propane torch. There are many ways this versatile tool comes in handy.
Buying Guide
There are several factors you should keep in mind when shopping for a propane torch.
How To Use a Propane Torch Properly
Safety comes first, so wear the correct protective gear. A welding helmet protects your eyes and face, while welding gloves and a welding jacket protect your arms and torso. Wear heavy cotton pants and reinforced work boots to protect your toes against spatter and sparks. Also, make sure there is a fire extinguisher nearby, and there are no fire hazards in the immediate area.
To light the torch, hold the tip facing away from you. If you have a striker, hold it over the nozzle of the torch to ignite the gas. If you have an igniter, turn on the gas and press the trigger.
Take Note
Make sure you use the torch in a well-ventilated area if you are indoors. And outdoors, watch out for strong wind pushing the flame towards flammable materials. Use the valve on the base of the nozzle to select the right flame size. A high heat requires a smaller flame, while a larger flame is better for preheating metal.
Place the tip of the flame against the metal and, depending on the application, either hold it steady for higher heat or make small passes with the flame over the desired area for lower heat. Also, consider keeping the torch further away from the surface if you want to decrease the heat.
Turn off the gas when you finish and allow the torch to cool down before moving it. You can now remove your safety equipment.
Safety Precautions When Using a Propane Torch
As with any dangerous activity, taking the right safety measures will decrease the risk, although not entirely.
- Wear adequate safety equipment like welding goggles, gloves and a welding jacket.
- Always work in well-ventilated areas if indoors. Open windows and doors to allow the air to circulate.
- Get to know your torch and how it works before handling it.
- Adjust the flame to cater to different uses.
- Keep the torch away from flammable materials.
- Store the propane canisters safely, away from heat and children.
- Always read the instruction manual.
Propane Torch FAQs
Fan the Flame
Propane torches are super-versatile and cover a multitude of tasks. They braze, solder, weld and preheat metal. They are the easiest tool to use when you need to perform on the spot welding, and they store away safely until they are needed again.
If you want a compact and cheap alternative to a welder, get a propane torch.