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| Preview | Name | Awards | Purchase |
|---|---|---|---|
  | Blazer GT8000 | High End | |
  | Vie De Chef | Medium Priced | |
  | JB Chef Culinary | Affordable |
A butane torch is a reliable and useful tool worthy of being in every handyman’s arsenal. With the versatility they afford, you’ll never be at a lack of ways to use your butane torch. Finding the best butane torch can sometimes be difficult considering they are used on varying applications.
Whether you are using them to complete light-duty home tasks or you enjoy cooking scrumptious dishes, a butane torch is going to be a necessary piece of the puzzle. Butane torches are also quite simple to use; a beginner doesn’t need much practice time before they have professional abilities.
With temperatures rising to 2,610 degrees Fahrenheit, butane torches are capable of melting most household metals such as copper and aluminum. This makes them a great addition to any do-it-yourselfer’s bag of tools.
In this guide, we are going to discuss our choices as the best butane torch in a variety of price ranges. We’ll also go through the common qualities that the best butane torch should have. In addition, we’ll spend a short amount of time discussing how to use your new butane torch safely. By the time it’s over, you will be a professional filled with the knowledge of how to use the best butane torch.
Butane Torch Reviews
Best High-End Butane Torches (Over $40)
For those performing extensive professional jobs or if you are in need of a butane torch on a regular basis, it would be wise to invest in a high-end butane torch. They are generally made from a higher level of material so that you can rely on their durability. They are also going to reach higher temperatures than a budget model would. Here’s our pick for the best high-end butane torches.
1. Blazer GT8000 Big Shot Butane Torch
Anti-flare, brass-frame nozzle, for safety and flame control
The Blazer has been ranked as the best butane torch by many users for quite some time now. With the impressive features and anti-flare nozzle, it is clear to see why it continues to receive rave reviews. The maximum flame temperature on this model reaches up to 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can get your tasks done fast.
The flame length also ranges from as little as 1.25-inches up to 5-inches high. With temperatures this high combined with a capable flame length, you can blast titanium or slow it down for your crème Brulee. Either way, it’s quite impressive with a burn time of 35 minutes.
The brass frame nozzle enables the torch to directly emit a precise flame to the object you are working on. Ideally, it is best suited for detail work that is difficult to access. This would be perfect to handle limited space jobs such as soldering, plumbing, dental applications as well as brazing.
It features a handy gas-flow adjustment dial so you maintain complete control over the flame length at all times. With the attachable tabletop base, it’s possible to have one hand free at all times. It also doesn’t require any electric connection, making it completely portable.
Inside the butane torch, the piezoelectric ignition starts from a pressure reaction. This then activates energy which strikes the crystals leading to the emission of gas flames and sparks. You’ll find that this model isn’t just fuel efficient, but that the noise levels are also low compared to other models.
For safety purposes, there is a manual lock on the torch for when it’s not in use. This allows you some extra peace of mind regarding the transport and storage of your butane torch.
To see this torch’s flame, watch this video:
What Customers Say:
The majority of users agree that this is the best butane torch. Many of them have made comments regarding the price and how they are glad they spent the extra money.
One of the customers stated that it was “powerful, reliable, durable and lasts forever.”
Technical Specs:
- Maximum Flame Temperature: 2,500 degrees F
- Flame Range: 1.25 to 5.0 inches
- Continuous Burn Time: 35 minutes
- Product Dimensions: 5.2 x 2 x 7.5 inches
- Weight: 12 ounces
- Warranty: 1-year limited
- What’s in the Box: Big Shot GT-8000 butane refillable torch, one detachable base and instruction manual
- Maximum temperature of 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit
- Runs up to 35 minutes at a time
- Lightweight and portable
- Manual lock for safety
- Does not require the use of electricity
- Recommended strictly for industrial and professional use
- Expensive
2. Blazer GB2001 Self-Igniting Butane Micro-Torch
Gas-flow adjustment lever, to control flame length and width
This refillable micro torch is more expensive than the previous model but rated as a great choice for the best butane torch. Many users have found it to be helpful when doing brazing, soldering, culinary work, plumbing, jewelry making or in automotive applications.
The rubber outer body finish is diamond-shaped and offers a safe grip for easy use. The gas flow adjustment lever allows for simple adjustments to the flame. Adjustments range from the yellow flame to a precise, blue flame. There is also an attachable stand for hands-free work.
Just like the Blazer reviewed above, this also features the piezoelectric ignition system based on a pressurized reaction. With this system, there is no electric connection required; simply push the trigger and you’ll have a flame.
The flame temperature reaches up to 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit and burns for up to 2 hours at a time. The head is at a 90-degree fixed angle and it offers a flame range of 0.5 to 1.25-inches. The safety lock is handy for when the torch is not in use.
Refilling this Blazer is simple; just remove the base and insert a gas canister in the nipple located at the bottom of the torch. At just 6.9 ounces, you’ll find this torch to be completely portable and comfortable to use.
To get an idea what the flame on this torch looks like, check out this video:
What Customers Say:
As with the other Blazer option, customers are genuinely pleased with this product despite the high price. Most people have been using it for years and feel that it is still durable and strong, unlike the cheaper options.
One user wrote that this was the “most durable butane torch that I’ve used.”
Technical Specs:
- Maximum Flame Temperature: 2,500 degrees F
- Flame Range: 0.5 to 1.25 inches
- Continuous Burn Time: 2 hours
- Product Dimensions: 12 x 6 x 6 inches
- Weight: 6.9 ounces
- Warranty: 1-year limited
- What’s in the Box: Blazer GB2001 Self-Igniting Butane Micro-Torch, one detachable base and instruction manual
- Maximum temperature of 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit
- Runs up to 2 hours at a time
- Comfortable grip and lightweight
- Manual lock for safety
- Portable and small
- Needs high-quality fuel to run properly
- Expensive
Best Mid-Range Butane Torches ($25 – $40)
If you aren’t in need of the most powerful, industrial butane torch on the market, you can save a little money and opt for a mid-range model instead. Depending what your individual needs are, you can spend less and still get the best butane torch for your individual desires.
1. Vie De Chef Culinary Butane Torch
Our refillable culinary torch comes with a 100% lifetime guarantee.
While the name of this best butane torch indicates the purpose is for chefs, there are many more practical uses available. The innovative body is a winner when it comes to reducing hand fatigue which is good because at 9.1 ounces, it is slightly heavier than the other torches we’ve reviewed so far.
The anti-flare technology combined with the safety lock keeps you protected during all of your work. In addition, there is an adjustable temperature regulator to give you complete control over the flame size you desire. The burn time lasts up to 60 minutes on one tank.
This torch might not look like it can run with the high-end models, but it does reach temperatures up to 2,730 degrees Fahrenheit. Another big perk with this butane torch is the lifetime warranty and complete money-back guarantee.
With the aluminum finish, it gives a more sophisticated appearance over the traditional industrial look making it easy to use anywhere.
If you want to see the flame size on this torch, be sure to check out this video:
What Customers Say:
The overall consensus from the majority of users is that this torch is reliable and easy to use. In addition, many of them found it to be durable and long-lasting.
Technical Specs:
- Maximum Flame Temperature: 2,730 degrees F
- Flame Range: N/A
- Continuous Burn Time: 60 minutes
- Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 3 x 7.5 inches
- Weight: 9.1 ounces
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty and full money-back guarantee
- What’s in the Box: Vie De Chef Culinary Butane Torch and instruction manual
- Maximum temperature of 2,730 degrees Fahrenheit
- Runs up to 60 minutes at a time
- Easy to use and handle
- Lifetime warranty and money-back guarantee
- Temperature regulator for maximum control
- Geared toward culinary applications
- Noisy
2. Bernz-O-Matic ST2200T Micro Flame Butane Torch Kit
The item is Micro Flame Butane Torch Kit 019133/ST2200T
This micro flame butane torch works well with metal tools, construction and concrete. Many also found it useful for soldering or as a simple heat gun. Either way, it has made our list of the best butane torch because of the high-quality manufacturing performed in the United States.
When using a micro torch, you’ll find that they are ideal for jobs that require intense precision and accuracy. The concentrated and tighter flame even works well if you need to heat dome nails. The soldering tip is perfect for heat shrinks or just lighting things such as fireworks.
The stable and sturdy base which is included prevents the top of the torch from falling over. There is also the option to lock the flame for easier manipulation during soldering. There are a total of three setting options: fine solder, pencil flame or hot air blower.
Lighting the torch has given some people trouble. You need to slide the red piece down until you feel the click. Another downside is that the soldering tips aren’t designed for lifetime usage and you cannot purchase new tips. This means you have to buy a new torch once the tip is done.
Instead of a simple, one year warranty, this brand does feature a 3-year warranty which allows for additional peace of mind. Plus, it is a lower cost than the previous models we’ve reviewed.
For some more thoughts on this torch, be sure to check out this YouTube review:
What Customers Say:
The majority of customers have found this to be a helpful tool for industrial purposes and around the house. It appears to be quite durable and sufficient for most projects. One user stated that they’ve “used this torch for almost a year now” with no issues.
There are a few complaints about the difficulty in working with the safety switch, but if this is an important feature, you can feel confident knowing it doesn’t light easily.
Technical Specs:
- Maximum Flame Temperature: unknown
- Flame Range: 0.5 to 1.0-inch
- Continuous Burn Time: unknown
- Product Dimensions: 3 x 6.5 x 9.5 inches
- Weight: 8 ounces
- Warranty: 3-year limited warranty
- What’s in the Box: Micro Flame Butane Torch Kit 019133/ST2200T
- Portable
- Features a sturdy base
- Comes with three setting options: fine solder, pencil flame or hot air blower
- 3-year limited warranty
- Lower price
- Safety switch is difficult to work with
- Soldering tip is not replaceable
Best Budget-Friendly Butane Torches (Under $25)
If budget is one of your primary concerns, you don’t need to sacrifice buying the best butane torch. There are still several options that are going to work for you; they just might have fewer features.
1. JB Chef Culinary Micro Butane Torch
Thanks to its high burning temperature, you can use it for soldering, jewelry making and welding as well.
Here’s another dedicated culinary torch that can be used in other applications as well. It only weighs about 8 ounces, so it is portable and easy to handle. There is also a base included making it easier to concentrate on your project.
Users have found it helpful to use this butane torch during soldering, jewelry making and welding as well as in their cooking applications. The high-quality materials mean long life and maximum durability. There is even a lifetime guarantee on the torch.
The locking mechanism makes it safer to have around the house while the flame is also completely under your control at all times. Some customers have experienced issues with getting the torch working at first, but many have been pleased with the results from dealing with the customer service team.
This butane torch comes with two settings to adjust the flame: the rate of butane flow and shape of the flame. It appears that you can achieve a flame up to 4 inches long and that the continuous run time is recommended at less than 15 minutes.
If you would like to see a video review of this torch, watch this handy YouTube video:
What Customers Say:
Some people experienced issues with the flame lock switch, but once that was worked out, many of the customers found the tool to be quite useful. One user stated that she uses it for more than cooking like, “repairing my skis, starting my smoker, bending metal, electrical shrink wrap and the list goes on.”
Technical Specs:
- Maximum Flame Temperature: unknown
- Flame Range: up to 4 inches
- Continuous Burn Time: less than 15 minutes
- Product Dimensions: 5.1 x 3 x 7 inches
- Weight: 8 ounces
- Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty
- What’s in the Box: JB Chef Culinary Micro Butane Torch, base and instruction manual
- Good value
- Features a sturdy base
- Features two setting adjustments
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Great customer service
- Difficult filling
- Flame lock switch is difficult to figure out
2. AMRIU GF-851 Micro Butane Torch Lighter
Professional cooking torch for all cooking needs .
This micro butane torch features a built-in ignition system and a convenient flame switch located on the side for easy use. While this professional cooking torch is mainly used for cooking needs, there are many other ways to use it professionally. Consider it the ideal tool for soldering, jewelry making or working with metal.
Users have also found this to be a helpful tool when working with wiring or shrink wrap. It is also handy to have when you don’t require the use of a bigger butane torch and are looking for a convenient, portable option. While there is little information regarding the heat or size of the flame, this appears to do the trick with most smaller projects.
The torch does come with a base, but some people have noted that it isn’t very sturdy. The plus side is that it appears to be easy to refill. Simply turn the torch upside down and push the fuel tip into the refill hole.
What Customers Say:
Most people felt that for the money, it did exactly what it was intended to do. One customer left the following review, “This torch was very easy to fill with fluid, there is an adjustment on the side where you can set the flame intensity as well. The flame is pinpoint sharp, I do a lot of cord braiding and it’s very easy to use the sharp flame to burn the ends of the cord. I am very impressed and would definitely buy this again and would recommend it to my friends.”
Technical Specs:
- Maximum Flame Temperature: unknown
- Flame Range: unknown
- Continuous Burn Time: unknown
- Product Dimensions: 6.4 x 5.6 x 1.9 inches
- Weight: 7.2 ounces
- Warranty: N/A
- What’s in the Box: AMRIU GF-851 Micro Butane Torch Lighter and base
- Good value
- Convenient flame switch
- Built-in ignition
- Easy to fill
- Base is not sturdy
- Difficult to find information on the butane torch
3. LiBa Kitchen Butane Culinary Torch
Used in the finest restaurants. Ideal for caramelizing sugar atop creme brulee, glazing a baked ham, searing a steak, roasting bell peppers, melting cheese and toasting bread crumbs.
It seems that most of the lower dollar options for the best butane torch are geared toward the culinary field, but that isn’t all they are good for. This professional torch is a great addition to the kitchen but also works well whenever you need a hot flame as this temperature soars up to 2,730 degrees Fahrenheit.
A nice addition that this torch offers that the others didn’t is a handy fuel gauge so you can quickly determine how much butane is left. The extended angled nozzle keeps your hands far from the flame while the safety lock and anti-flare technology give you additional peace of mind.
It does weigh 11 ounces, so it is slightly heavier than the other models we’ve reviewed, but it comes with a hefty 3-year warranty. For the price of this unit, you would expect to find a plastic housing, but it is encased in a heavy-duty metal body for maximum durability. You can burn a continuous flame for up to 60 minutes with this torch. The flame size is also completely customizable so you can achieve whatever you dream of.
For a complete video review of this butane torch, be sure to watch this:
What Customers Say:
Most of the users who weren’t happy with this product seemed to have issues with filling it, but the majority couldn’t say enough good. One customer stated that the torch was safe to use and completely ergonomic. They were happy with the lock switch, flame and build of the torch.
Another customer has been happily using the torch for some time now and stated that he could “see even soldering copper pipes with this torch.”
Technical Specs:
- Maximum Flame Temperature: 2,730 degrees Fahrenheit
- Flame Range: unknown
- Continuous Burn Time: 60 minutes
- Product Dimensions: 4.5 x 6 x 2 inches
- Weight: 11 ounces
- Warranty: 3-year limited
- What’s in the Box: LiBa Kitchen Butane Culinary Torch
- Easy to use
- Durable, high-quality metal build
- Burns up to 60 minutes continuously
- Handy fuel gauge
- Adjustable flame
- Base isn’t sturdy
- Flame doesn’t pinpoint as precisely as the higher-end models
Best Butane Torch Buying Guide
Now that we’ve looked at a few great options for the best butane torch, it’s important that we take time to consider what qualities to look for and other helpful information when using your new torch.
Why You Need a Butane Torch
You might be purchasing a butane torch for one specific purpose in mind, but the reality is that the best butane torch is useful in many applications. Some of the most popular ways to use a torch are in these areas:
Small Repairs
Butane torches are the ideal tool when soldering electronics, cutting rope, welding or shrinking. Many professionals find them helpful for repair jobs around the house or in industrial settings. Plumbers even use them to defrost or thaw out frozen water pipes.
Other professionals such as automotive techs have found many purposes when a butane torch was helpful and made the job quicker. Also, painters find that removing paint is quick and simple with the right butane torch on hand.
Culinary
When used as a kitchen gadget, the best butane torch serves many purposes. Mainly, chefs enjoy the handiness of having the torch for caramelizing the sugar onto of Crème Brulee. Aside from that, butane torches make it simple to melt cheese, glaze ham or sear a steak.
Consider the ease of grilling seafood or toasting that garlic bread. One user also stated that she enjoys using it to roast marshmallows while watching TV.
Making Jewelry & Other Crafts
A common thread among owners of butane torches is that they enjoy doing crafts. Many people find that it makes the production of jewelry much easier to own the best butane torch. A torch is a convenient way to deal with soldering earrings, working with small links or even doing glass blowing.
Before You Purchase a Butane Torch
Before you go ahead and purchase the best butane torch, there are some qualities you’ll want to consider. If money is no object, make sure that your torch contains all of these features for the best result.
Instant Ignition
A butane torch should be easily ignited with the press of a button. This is also important if you want to extinguish the flame. You shouldn’t need to fumble to turn the torch on or off at any given time.
Adjustments to Flame
The best butane torch features a high-quality flame adjustment in the form of a lever or switch. This allows for you to retain complete control over the size of flame you are using.
Safety Precautions
You want the best butane torch to have some safety locking mechanism on it. This keeps you from accidentally lighting the torch and is a critical component when there are children in the house. It is also a nice safeguard if you will be traveling with the torch.
Versatility
Due to the number of applications that the best butane torch can be used in, it is important to choose a model that has versatility. If you are going to invest the money, pick a model that handles soldering, brazing, welding and culinary applications for an all-around great piece of machinery.
Design
If you are holding the best butane torch for any amount of time, you want it to be ergonomic and lightweight. This prevents fatigue of your hand and wrist muscles. In addition, pick a torch that features top-notch materials to ensure a long life.
Warranty
There is no standard warranty on butane torches, so you have to check each model to see what is offered. We reviewed some with lifetime warranties while others didn’t seem to have one at all. Choosing a company that offers a superior warranty protects your investment in the future.
Butane Torch Safety
It’s exciting when your butane torch shows up for use, but there are some precautionary measures you’ll want to take to ensure you are using the torch safely. Handling flammable devices is always dangerous so observe these steps while using the best butane torch.
- Avoid inhaling the butane by taking precautions such as wearing a mask.
- Canisters of butane are flammable. Keep them away from any flame or hot surfaces.
- Never smoke near your butane torch or the butane.
- Only use the butane torch in a well-ventilated area.
- Do not store your butane in an unapproved container.
- Keep all containers closed and label them properly.
- If you are transporting any flammable gas, be sure to ground and bind it.
- Allow the butane torch to cool down before filling it again.
- While working in an industrial setting, be sure to wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles and an apron.
- If you get butane on your clothing, wash it or dispose of it immediately.
- Keep a fire extinguisher on hand at all times.
- If a fire breaks out, turn off the source of gas first.
- Don’t be afraid to get help for a fire.
- Store your butane separate from the area you are working in.
- Keep away from children.
If you plan to work with a butane torch, you may want to watch this helpful video on butane torch safety. https://youtu.be/98aehrEvpp8
Filling and Lighting the Butane Torch Safely
While all torches work differently, the basics of filling and lighting them will be similar. Here’s a handy guide for filling and lighting your best butane torch.
- Start by fueling the container in a well-ventilated area. Make sure you are far from any source of flame.
- Read all the manuals that come with your butane torch before proceeding. There might be specific do’s and don’ts relative to your model.
- Remove the torch from the base and turn it upside down.
- Insert your canister of butane into the small hole located at the bottom.
- It should only take about 10 to 15 seconds for fueling to occur.
- Once you hear a sound that resembles a sputter, carefully move the butane container away from the torch.
- Deactivate your safety switch.
- Press your ignition button to light your butane torch.
- Adjust any knobs or levers provided to control the flame to your desired level.
- Once you have completed using the torch, be sure to allow it to cool completely and store in a safe area.
Differences Between a Butane Torch and a Propane Torch
One of the things that tend to confuse many people is how a butane torch and propane torch are different. There are many differences that are important to note. The first is the heating temperatures.
Butane reaches around 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit when used with a torch. This makes them useful for welding jobs and smaller projects. A propane torch, on the other hand, jumps up to a maximum of 3,600 degrees Fahrenheit in temperature making it a better choice for most industrial applications.
Another difference is the design of the torch. With a propane torch, you’ll notice a head that curves inward. This allows for a concentrated flame with extreme precision. The butane torch flame has a straight end that produces a full flame.
While the butane torch offers a lightweight, compact and portable design, the flame is weaker. That’s why it is only used for tasks such as soldering metals, drying wet products and heat-shrinking. The propane torch has a wider variety of applications it can be used for but requires more safety gear and materials.
Conclusion
When you are in the market for the best butane torch, you’ll notice that you have plenty of options to choose from. High-end models are priced higher than $40, but if you are on a budget, you can easily find a decent brand for under $25.
Make a list of what you’ll be using the butane torch for and then compare them with our reviews to find the one that fits your needs exactly. Chances are, you’ll find other uses for it soon enough.
