The Best Butane Torches for Welding & Soldering

If you are in the market for a new butane torch, it’s important to know the major differences between the main competitors that are out there. A butane torch (also known by the slang term dab torch) can be one of the most reliable and useful tools in your tool kit. They are extremely versatile and you’ll never run out of ways to use them. They are used for a wide variety of applications from industrial, professional use like soldering and light welding, to light-duty home projects like cooking mouthwatering dishes. Butane torches run at a blast temperature of up to 2600 degrees Fahrenheit, which is enough to melt common metals like aluminum and copper. One of the best things about these torches is that they are super simple to use. You don’t need to be a pro to be able to use one but it does help to know how to safely handle this tool.

Making sure you have the right butane torch for the job is going to save you a lot of time, money and frustration and so with that in mind, we’ve compiled this list of the top butane torches that are available on today’s market. Keep reading for our in-depth reviews and recommendations, as well as our handy buying guide that can be found at the end of the list.

And as usual, for those short on time, here’s a quick run-through of our top 3 picks when it comes to the best butane torches available for you to purchase.

Top Pick

Bernzomatic TS8000

The best and most popular butane torch out there. The hugely popular and highly rated Bernzomatic TS8000 features instant on/off trigger ignition and is a favorite among professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts across the globe.

Top Value Pick

Dremel 2200-01 Versa Flame Butane Torch

Your best bet when it comes to a value for money butane torch. Well recognized as a leader in the DIY field, Dremel makes quality torches backed up by solid user reviews. Why spend a fortune on quality tools when you don’t have to?

Top Budget Pick

SE MT3001 Deluxe Butane Torch

This high-quality little torch is fantastic value for money and is a hot selling item all around the world. It works great for soldering and craftwork, as well as being handy for kitchen applications.

Best Butane Torches with Reviews

1. Bernzomatic TS8000

Features –

• Weight: 1.6 pounds
• Measurements: 1.9 x 5.2 x 12.2 inches
• Extra Features: ultra-swirl flame, adjustable knobs
• Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty

The Pros

• Efficient
• Doesn’t require frequent refilling
• Easy to adjust
• Flame is consistent
• Reliable

The Cons

• Bigger size than many other portable butane torches
• Trigger sometimes requires a few squeezes to ignite flame

Overview

The Bernzomatic TS8000 is hands down the best butane torch that money can by. The most trusted name in the industry, Bernzomatic knows how to make great torches and you know that it’s going to provide a constant, quality flame that will satisfy all your soldering needs. It’s a hot torch featuring instant on/off trigger ignition that takes just a split second to operate, saving you from wasting excess gas in-between tasks. I’ve been using a Bernzomatic torch my entire career and it has never let me down. In fact, I’d say 90% of professionals I see on the job site have this brand of portable torch in their tool kit. They really are that good.

This torch features a large, optimized swirl flame that produces maximum amounts of heat output, giving it its fast soldering time and the handy flame adjuster allows you to perform tasks evenly with precise heat going where you want it to.

For those who like to use there butane torch hands-free, this torch features a flame lock button so you have more freedom to work with your hands while heating and soldering. The Bernzomatic TS8000 is also pressure-controlled, allowing it to burn in all directions, providing the most consistent performance.

It’s manufactured from a durable cast aluminum structure and is more or less silent during operation. Plus it’s not only great as a portable butane torch, but the head also fits a wide variety of propane tanks, making it an extremely versatile tool.

Standing at 18 inches tall, it’s a fair size bigger than a lot of portable heat torches you’ll see on the market but that being said, one of the major pluses of this (especially for professionals) is that it doesn’t need to be refilled as often, as it holds a lot more fuel than the smaller butane torch models. Of course, the more fuel inside the torch, the heavier it becomes, so that’s something to consider if you plan to take your torch from job to job but at the same time, these aren’t heavy tools and fit easily inside a tool bag or work vehicle.

This is an extremely versatile butane torch that can be used for a wide array of applications. A lot of different professionals and amateurs use this torch for a heap of different reasons including but not restricted to light welding, jewelry making, soldering or brazing, and PVC pipe bends.

Most online customers were very happy with this torch’s performance and credited the Bernzomatic TS8000 as a quality-made product. However, I think the real proof here comes from the fact that it is the most tried, tested and trusted torch used by industry professionals everywhere. To me, that speaks volumes. It also comes with a lifetime limited warranty. Another great feature of this fantastic torch.

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2. Dremel 2200-01 Versa Flame Butane Torch

Features –

• Burn Time: 75 minutes
• Max. Temp: 2200 F
• Extra Features: variable temperature control, flame lock switch
• Warranty: 2 year warranty

The Pros

• Durable and precise
• Detachable base
• Nine piece kit
• Integrated ignition trigger
• Value for money

The Cons

• Some users have reported faulty ignition system
• Some reports of gas leakage

Overview

The Dremel 2200-01 Versa Flame Multi-Function Butane Torch is a versatile tool that features an integrated ignition button for easy lighting and temperature and flame control adjustments. It comes in a nine piece kit that includes a blower, deflector, flame diffuser, soldering tip, solder, sponge, tins, and wrenches. It’s as simple as changing the tip and you’re good to go for another job. The detachable base is a great addition to this torch allowing you to work hands-free if needed.

Although it is a great value for money butane torch, the ignition can be a little unreliable, so you may need to resort to using a lighter from time to time to get the flame going. It also has a reported tendency to leak, especially after prolonged heavy use. It does come with a two year warranty though, so if something should go wrong, you can rest assured that you are covered.

Apart from these couple of drawbacks, it is still a fantastic torch for the price, considering everything that you get with it when compared to similarly priced butane torches on the market.

This torch can be used on a wide range of applications and the extra tips needed to perform a variety of tasks are provided in the kit, allowing you to perform soldering, pipe fitting, jewelry making, and even perfecting your cooking skills in the kitchen. The continuous flame lock makes it a great option for a heap of jobs and it is safe to use, and store around the house and kids thanks to the integrated safety lock.

If you are on the hunt for a good, all-round starter kit, this one the one for you.

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3. SE MT7706 Jumbo Butane Torch

Features –

• Burn Time: 60 minutes
• Max. Temp: 2400 F
• Extra Features: built-in ignition system, thumb release safety lock
• Warranty: 2 year limited warranty

The Pros

• – Budget-friendly
• – Instant ignition
• – Reliable thumb lock safety mechanism

The Cons

• – Plastic build
• – Not durable
• – Ignition system somewhat unreliable

Overview

Our top pick if you are on a budget, SE’s MT3001 Deluxe Butane Power Torch with inbuilt ignition system heats up to 2400 degrees F and has enough gas to burn for 60 minutes after each refill. It is super easy to light thanks to the built-in ignition system but unfortunately, some users have reported that the ignition system sometimes wouldn’t work and they had to revert to using a light to ignite the torch instead. It includes a safety thumb release lock, making it safe to use around the home if you have small children. The design is small and portable, making it really easy to carry, transport, and store.

One downside is that while this torch is light and easy to carry, it is made out of plastic, so it’s not the most durable torch out there. It won’t die on you after being dropped from small heights, but I probably wouldn’t lug this torch around in my tool bag or toolbox without storing it in a protective hard case. Especially if you carry heavier tools around.

This is a great torch for use around the house and for smaller projects such as jewelry making. It also works well in the kitchen and can even handle some basic soldering. It’s not designed for heavier use in a professional environment.

This is the most budget-friendly option that you’ll find on this list and it, therefore, goes without saying that the overall quality leaves a little to be desired. But for the price that this little torch will set you back, it’s well worth a look. You’ll even get a two year limited warranty included.

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4. Blazer GT8000 Big Shot Butane Torch

Features –

• Burn Time: 35 minutes on maximum flame
• Max. Temp: 2500 F
• Extra Features: gas flow dial, 1.25 to 5 inch flame size, manual lock
• Warranty: 1 year warranty

The Pros

• Big gas cylinder
• Big adjustable flame
• Precise and reliable
• Detachable base

The Cons

• No ignition system included
• Requires two hands to start
• Warranty terms not as good as other brands

Overview

Although the burn time on the Blazer GT8000 Big Shot Butane Torch seems very short – just 35 minutes, it’s important to realize that this torch spits out a huge flame, especially considering its size. This 35 minute burn time is calculated when it is being used on the maximum flame setting. You are able to control the size of the flame via the gas flow dial and the flame ranges from 1.25 to 5 inches. Using this torch on a lower flame setting will greatly increase the burn time, so keep that in mind.

It features a detachable base and the torch itself can be turned and used upside down during operation without affecting the flame. It’s a compact yet powerful torch that fits easily into a tool bag for on-the-go convenience.

Unfortunately, some users have reported a few problems with this torch, namely that it begins to leak after several months of use. Another small gripe is that it requires two hands to start it and it doesn’t feature a quick start function – which I find a real pain when working on a job that requires a lot of small and fast soldering tasks. It does, however, come with a detachable base that allows you to use it hands-free if needed.

This torch is a bit on the pricey side, but it’s very versatile, sturdy and precise. It’s also very portable and easy to store.

This torch isn’t designed for home use, in fact, federal regulations prohibit it, so this is an ideal torch for professional or industrial workplaces.

It might not have a long burn time or handy ignition features but the Blazer GT8000 is definitely one of the most durable and reliable choices on this list, which is why we decided to include it. It comes with a 1 year warranty.

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5. Power Probe MTKIT01 Micro Torch Kit

Features –

• Burn Time: 120 minutes
• Max. Temp: 2500 F
• Extra Features: hard case, electronic igniter, soldering tips incl.
• Warranty: Unavailable

The Pros

• Includes hard carry case and accessories
• Really long burn time
• Features an electronic igniter

The Cons

• Igniter somewhat unreliable
• Prone to leaking gas
• Some users found tips difficult to attach

Overview

The most impressive feature of the Power Probe MTKIT01 Butane Torch Kit is its long burn time of up to 2 hours at 2500 degrees. The flame size on the torch varies between 0.5 to 2.5 inches. The kit comes with several soldering tips included and it also features a hard shell carry case to keep the everything together and intact. It works great for soldering jobs, loosening rusted nuts and bolts, shrink wrapping, plus a wide range of other jobs.

Included in the accessory kit are a soldering tip, solder attachment, rosin core solder, blower tip, heat shrink adapter shield, and a hot knife. Some users have reported that the tips can be difficult to attach but if you are familiar with soldering tools, I don’t think this should be an issue. Unfortunately, it is also reported that the electronic igniter is also somewhat unreliable and the torch is also sometimes prone to leaking fuel.

This is a pricier option when compared to some of the other torches of this list, but the fact that it comes as an entire kit means you won’t need to buy a bunch of separate add-ons down the road, making the price tag justifiable to my mind. With that being said, it still retails for around the same price as some of the higher-end torches on this list, and you’re also getting a lot of extras included.

This is a fantastic butane torch for use around the house and for small projects and hobbies such as jewelry making.

This is a great starter kit and features the most accessories of any of the torches on our list.

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6. Blazer GB2001 Mini Butane Torch

Features –

• Burn Time: 90 – 120 minutes
• Max. Temp: 2500 F
• Extra Features: Gas-flow adjustment lever, Detachable base, Piezoelectric ignition system
• Warranty: 1 year warranty

The Pros

• Long burn time
• Precise flame control
• Excellent grip
• Hands-free use with attachable stand

The Cons

• Some reports of igniter being unreliable
• Small flame

Overview

The Blazer GB2001 Self-Igniting Butane Micro Torch is a compact, well-built torch with an excellent burn time of between 1.5 and 2 hours. Its precise flame is ideal for use in a variety of situations including soldering, plumbing, jewelry making, automotive, and even cooking. It has an adjustable knob which controls the flame size and comes with a tabletop stand that allows for hands-free use if required. It is covered with a rubber finish that feels great and gives this torch a nice grip that makes it comfortable and easy to hold and work with.

As with a lot of these mini butane torches, the igniter can be sometimes unreliable and you might need to light the torch manually with a lighter from time to time. It has been reported by some users that the adjuster knob also stopped working, making it difficult to control the flame, which is a huge flaw in my books. One thing I really like about this torch is the rubberized grip, as it enhances the durability of the torch while making it easier to work with. It also has a strong and sturdy build and the flame control is excellent when it is working.

It’s on the pricier end of the spectrum but could prove to be a good investment for someone working with a butane torch frequently.

Because of its compact size and small flame, it’s especially suited for smaller jobs such as soldering jewelry or working with baked goods in the kitchen. The long burn time also makes it a good choice, as you’ll get far more use out of it between refills than you would with other torches.

The attachable stand is also a nice addition as it allows you to work with both your hands free from the torch. It comes with a 1 year warranty.

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7. ProTorch Micro Butane Torch

Features –

• Burn Time: 120 minutes
• Max. Temp: 2450 F
• Extra Features: Push start igniter, Sturdy metal construction
• Warranty: 1 year warranty

The Pros

• Flame control
• Sturdy build and design
• Push start igniter
• Excellent burn time

The Cons

• Small amount of leakage reported
• Some users reported that it’s difficult to refill

Overview

The compact size and sturdy metal construction of the ProTorch Micro Butane Torch make it ideal for one-handed use. It is also very comfortable and easy to hold thanks to the ergonomic rubberized non-slip handle. It features a precise and adjustable flame with a 2 hour burn time that can be lit in an instant with the push start igniter. This igniter seems to be one of the more reliable on the market with little reports of faults. It also features a solid base that allows you to place the torch on a workbench in order to work with both hands.

This is a mid-range option but comes with a few less features than other torches in the same price bracket.

Some drawbacks that have been reported are that this torch can be difficult to fill and also has a tendency to leak. It features a good design and is built in such a way to enable easy one-handed operation. It is also very durable thanks to the metal construction and rubberized grip. It also comes with a replacement warranty, so if you do find a fault with your torch, you can get a replacement product shipped to you.

This torch is great for working around the house and doing small jobs. I’d also recommend it for smaller professional jobs too, as the ergonomic design allows you to comfortably use this torch for extended periods of time.

It’s the most comfortable and ergonomically designed torch on this list, so if the feel of a tool in your hand is something you give importance to, it might be worth checking this one out.

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8. Power Probe MT Micro Butane Torch

Features –

• Max. Temp: 2400 F
• Extra Features: Detachable base, electronic igniter
• Warranty: Unknown

The Pros

• Adjustable flame
• Electronic igniter
• Accessories included.

The Cons

• Many reports of igniter being unreliable
• Difficult to refill

Overview

The MT Micro Torch from Power Pro features an adjustable flame of 0.5 to 1.25 inches. It also comes with a heap of accessories including a soldering tip, solder attachment, heat blower tip, heat shrink adapter with shield, and a tube of Rosin Core Solder. You’ll also get a case to store all these parts together. You’ll also get a detachable stand thrown in as well, allowing you to work with both hands on your project.

Overall, it’s a pretty sturdy torch. The igniter can be unreliable at times but that’s fairly common with butane torches. It has also been reported that it’s a little hard to fill, so it may take some practice to get the right refill technique down pat.

It has a fairly small flame, making it more suitable for smaller jobs. This smaller flame means you won’t need to refill the cylinder too often, which is a bit of a bonus as well. Its small and compact size also makes it very portable and the carry case included in the price makes it easy to keep everything together and orderly.

It comes with a wide variety of accessories which will come in very handy and makes this kit a great option for beginners. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to find any information relating to the warranty terms of this product.

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9. Bernzomatic ST2200T Butane Torch

Features –

• CPSC approved child resistant ignition
• Extra Features: continuous flame lock, safety lock, electric ignition
• Warranty: limited 3 year warranty

The Pros

• 3 alternative settings
• Electric ignition
• Safety lock mechanism
• Continuous flame lock
• Good warranty terms

The Cons

• Tips don’t last long
• Hard to find replacement parts

Overview

The Bernzomatic Micro Flame Butane Torch Kit is designed for fine and precise work. It comes with three different settings: fine soldering, hot air blower, and pinpoint flame. The torch lights in an instant thanks to the electric ignition system and it features a flame control knob that makes adjusting the flame size to suit your requirements a breeze.

Unfortunately, the soldering tips don’t appear to be very long-lasting and some users have reported that they had difficulty finding replacement heads, even from the manufacturer. There are other reports that the electric ignition system has a tendency to fail and is not the most reliable.

It falls in the mid-range pricing area and you’ll get about what you would expect for that price. The design makes it comfortable to use on a variety of tasks and provides a decent amount of control.

It’s designed for smaller, more intricate work like jewelry repairs, fine soldering, and craftwork and isn’t suitable for bigger commercial jobs.

Compared to other options on this list, it’s a fairly run-of-the-mill compact butane torch that gets the job done but is prone to a few hiccups along the way. It does come with an impressive 3 year warranty should things go wrong.

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10. Flame Forte Micro Blow Torch

Features –

• Burn Time: 60 minutes
• Max. Temp: 2600 F
• Extra Features: flame lock, temperature control, safety lock
• Warranty: 2 year warranty

The Pros

• Decent burn time
• Adjustable flame and temp. control
• Long nozzle
• Safety lock

The Cons

• Irregular temperature output

Overview

This Heavy Duty Micro Blow Torch features an impressive 60 minute burn time with a flame temperature of 2600 degrees F. It also features an extra-long nozzle and a flame lock, meaning that the flame will stay on without the need to hold down a trigger. And most importantly, if you are planning on using it around the house, it also has a safety lock for greater safety. A very important feature, especially if there are small children around.

You also have the option of using the flame hands-free thanks to the attachable stand.

One drawback is that the flame temperature of this torch tends to be a little inconsistent, so if you are undertaking a delicate task that requires an even temperature, this might not be the right torch for you. But for jobs like soldering wires or heating pipes, I don’t see this as being an issue. It has been noted by some users that the flame sometimes dies-out mid-use and needs to be re-lit, so this is something else to consider when looking at this torch.

It’s a fairly well-priced model but does not include many accessories in the price. A good buy for those in need of a basic butane torch without all the bells and whistles.

I see this as a good choice for home use and also for professional tradesmen such as electricians who need just a small torch for quick cable soldering jobs. It’s comfortable and easy to operate and gives quality results when performing basic tasks. It’s also a great option for plumbers, craft workers, and jewelry makers, etc.

The Heavy Duty Micro Blow Torch is durable enough to use professionally but is also simple and straightforward enough for amateurs too.

It also comes with a 2 year warranty.

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11. Master Appliance MT-70 Butane Torch

Features –

• Burn Time: 60 minutes
• Max. Temp: 2500 F
• Extra Features: self-igniting, adjustable flame, built-in stand
• Warranty: 1 year warranty

The Pros

• Compact
• Great value for money
• Self-igniting
• Adjustable flame

The Cons

• Questionable quality
• Some reports of leakage

Overview

This is a small, handheld butane torch manufactured by Master Appliance. The MT-70 Palm Sized Trigger Torch features a 60 minute burn time and has an adjustable flame. It’s self-igniting and comes with a small inbuilt stand that allows you to work hands-free.

It features a fairly low-quality plastic design that isn’t built to last but its compact size and light weight come in handy when performing tasks on the go. It’s definitely one of the most portable butane torches on this list.

Along with the weak body design, this torch is also prone to leaks and for the igniter to malfunction.

That being said, it’s one of the least expensive options on our list, making it a good choice for someone not looking to spend a lot of their hard-earned dollars on a torch that isn’t going to be used all that often.

This is not the type of butane torch I would recommend to a professional or someone with a heavy workload but it could come in handy for small unexpected jobs around the house. Its size and weight make it easy to throw in a drawer in the kitchen or garage and forget it’s even there until the need arrives. It also makes a nice addition to a BBQ area, as it’s great for lighting a grill. It will also melt plastic or solder but it’s only designed for small tasks.

While not the least expensive torch on our list, I’d say it is probably the lowest quality torch of the lot. So stick to small jobs and backyard use.

It’s covered by a one year manufacturer warranty.

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Butane Torch Buying Guide

Now that you’ve got a better idea of the types of butane torches that are available, you might be wondering exactly what you might use your torch for. They seem to play an important role in the tool kits of plumbers and electricians but do you really need one around the house? There are actually a heap of applications for a butane torch. Basically, any application that needs a small flame. And once you have one, you’ll realize just how helpful they are. There are plenty of ways to use a butane torch around the house, including but not limited to:

• Fixing cracks in your driveway by using crack and joint filler and a butane torch
• They are great for loosening rusted nuts and bolts
• Warming a frozen lock
• Burning weeds that appear between cracks in walkways, driveways, or sidewalks
• Giving a piece of wood or metal a vintage aged effect
• Using it like a heat gun to strip paint or varnish
• Jewelry making
• Thawing-out frozen water pipes
• Melting cheese
• Caramelizing creme brulee

So, as you can see, butane torches come in very hand around the home. Here’s what you should consider before purchasing one.

1. Burn Time

The burn time is the amount of time that your flame will burn for once the torch is filled with butane. The burn time between different torches varies a lot. It all depends on how much fuel the cylinder can hold, how leak-proof it is, and how efficiently the torch uses the gas. Mostly, burn times vary from around 30 minutes, right up to 2 hours.

If you are using your torch for simple tasks around the home, the burn time probably isn’t too important. It does become an issue when undertaking long jobs that require a lot of heat, as you’ll have to stop work more frequently in order to refill your canister if your torch has a low burn time.

2. Important Features

Here are a few of the most important features that will make your butane torch easier and safer to use:

Tips – Various tips perform different tasks. Sometimes they come included with the torch in a kit, other times you’ll have to purchase them separately. The tips work by changing the shape of the flame and how it’s dispersed, so make sure the torch you buy is capable of fitting a tip to do the work you need. Or better yet, has the right tip fitted from the get-go.

Fuel gauge – Lets you keep an eye on how much fuel is left so you don’t run out while working.

Flame adjustment – This gives the user total control over how big or small the flame size of the torch is. Very important when performing a wide range of tasks.

Design – Look for something lightweight and compact with a comfortable handle that’s easy to hold and control.

Instant power switch – Having a torch that can be ignited with the push of an on/off button is a real time-saver and makes the torch much easier to use.

3. Safety

Whenever you are working around a flame or flammable materials, there are serious safety concerns you need to think about and address. Luckily, some torches come with inbuilt safety features, such as:

Safety Locks – A really important feature for new users or anyone who has young children at home. The locking mechanism stops the torch from accidentally being turned on.

A reliable igniter – A reliable igniter is a huge advantage because it prevents you from having to light the butane torch with a match or lighter. A lot less can go wrong when all that you are required to do is just push a button to fire your torch up, rather than hold a flame in front of the gas nozzle.

Use the right tools for the right job – Using the wrong tip or the wrong kind of torch could be dangerous. Some torches are only designed for professional or industrial work and shouldn’t be used at home.

Other safety points to think about:

Don’t point the tip of the torch towards your face. I know it seems obvious but you’d be surprised how easy it is to make this mistake if you aren’t concentrating. Some people even use these torches to light cigars are cigarettes – a very dangerous thing to do as it means the torch is aimed almost directly at your face. If you really have to, try to aim the torch parallel to your face and insert the cigar into the flame.

Have a fire extinguisher close by, because you never know…

Store your torch in a safe place. Never keep your torch in a place where a small child or pet can access it.

And in the same vein, make sure you store your fuel appropriately, out of reach of kids and pets, and separate from the torch.

Conclusion

A butane torch is a super handy tool to have at home. Choosing the right torch can get a little confusing at times. With so many options out there, you might not know which one to pick. I hope this list has helped to narrow down your options and has given you a clear guide as to what features to be on the lookout for.

My first choice for a top-quality butane torch is the Bernzomatic TS8000. It’s a bit bigger than most and more suited to commercial and professional use but it has been my torch of choice for most of my working life.

If you are after value for money, I highly recommend the Dremel 2200-01 Versa Flame Butane Torch. It is compact and easy to use and won’t set you back too much either.

And for those on a budget, don’t forget about the SE MT7706 Jumbo Butane Torch, a bargain for the price and a great torch to have around the house.

Once you have one of these great time-saving tools ready for use around the house, you’ll wonder why you didn’t get one sooner. They are a handy and economical addition to your toolkit. I hope that you found this guide informative and it makes your decision a little easier to make. Thanks for reading and I’d love to hear your comments or advice in the section down below.