Torch at Lowes with MAPP Gas kit

[GDesign]

I went into Lowes yesterday to buy a can of MAPP gas and I saw a kit that was for sale with an interesting torch head that reminded me of the HH. The flame temp listed on the box is at 4400 degrees. This torch is called the

BernzOmatic®
Trigger Head

Item #: 77454 Model: 19040 $36.97



Instant On/Off trigger increases fuel savings and convenience
Lock button keeps torch lit for finger-free use
Replaceable brass tip
Swirl flame for maximum heat output
Pressure regulated to burn upside down
Cast aluminum body and stainless steel burn tube for durability

Bernzomatic soldering and brazing torch kit
Trigger start ignition
Cast metal body
Pressure regulated
Powerful swirl flame
Stainless steel burn tube prevents corrosion
Fracture-groove feature prevents gas leakage
Built-in regular valve assures efficient operation in any position
Durable cast-aluminum body for years of heavy duty use
Solid brass swirl tip heats up work fast
Lock button keeps torch lit-releases and shuts off with a push of trigger button
Piezo ceramic igniter provides thousands of easy lights


When I get paid next week I was going to go into Lowes and for shits and giggles I was going to buy one and try making a bead on it.

Just for the sake of debate, how do you think it will perform?



Diane Poland

[kbinkster]

The head diameter looks narrower than the Hot Head, so the flame would probably be narrower and not as bushy. The air inlets look larger. It could be a more concentrated heat than the Hot Head, which would be good.

On brazing torches like that, the highest concentration of heat is right at the end of the cone part in the flame. I wouldn't know how large a window you would have to work in for a "neutral" flame suitable for working glass without trying one out.

If it is a condensed enough heat, then it might be able to work small boro (at least clear). When you get it for testing, try some boro and see what you can do with it.

As for the other features of the torch, the trigger start ignition sounds like a nice feature, but after what we have all seen with the Fireworks Torch, I don't think that I would rely on it.

Have fun testing it and be sure to post your results!

[Dale M.]

This statement in specifications "Swirl flame for maximum heat output" pretty much kills it for lampwork.. It is an unstable flame.. This is a plumbers soldering torch. Period!.

Dale

[artwhim]

I had a plumbers torch from our local farm store that I thought I might be able to use for soldering silver (it had a very small tip). It burned soooo dirty that I still have some soot on my basement ceiling tiles. What a mess.

[momoharley]

I tried this same torch out and Kathy is right it burns dirty. My beads had sooty streaks through them. Why not try a hot head? They cost about the same.
Ann

[GDesign]

Thanks, Ann you saved me $37. I appreciate everyones' information posted. You guys are the best!!!!

Thanks for helping out a Newbie!!!!