This is one of those tools that we rarely think about, but when we need it — nothing else is going to do the job (safely anyway..). The main reason that we use the outdoor torch is to light bonfires, which we typically will do every couple weeks throughout the spring & fall. That is when the majority of the landscaping/cleanup happens & we have to deal with a seemingly non-stop supply of broken limbs, fallen trees, weeds, overgrown bushes, and the massive pile of leaves that arrive along with cold weather.
Prior to finding this outdoor torch at my local big box store, we were used to lighting the fires with matches, lighters, and at some point a handheld propane torch. The main problem with these (other than the fact that they get extremely hot extremely fast & burn your fingers) is the fact that you literally have to have your hand inches away from what you are trying to light & once you see a flame —- you better move!!
The biggest advantage of the outdoor torch is space…..your hands are never closer than about 3 feet away from the flame & you can hold it on a section of leaves, limbs, or other yard waste & fully ignite it prior to moving onto the next section. The days of seeing fire, moving your hand, and then hoping that the flame doesn’t die — or worse, having to literally “blow” on it to get it going are over!
That being said, this is very limited in how you can safely use it. There are only two things that I can think of where it would be useful — lighting outdoor fires & killing weeds. Which are the only two things that I ever use it for — but it works exceptionally well & we have never had one issue with it.
HERE ARE THE SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS — READ & UNDERSTAND PRIOR TO USE!
Read and follow important safety warnings included with BernzOmatic fuel cylinders and hand torches. Always use protective gloves and safety goggles while using hand torches.
Check cylinder and appliance seals before using BernzOmatic products. Never use cylinders with damaged or missing seals. Discard cylinders if dirt or rust particles are present in valve areas.
Make sure your appliance is turned off before attaching a fuel cylinder. Attach outdoors away from pilot lights, flames, sparks, or other ignition sources that can ignite leaking gas. Be sure to hold cylinder upright while attaching hoses or appliances. Hand tighten only — never use tools to tighten — as over-tightening can damage seals.
To check for leaks once appliances are attached, put soapy water on connections and look for bubbles. Also listen for the hiss of escaping gas; feel for extreme cold; and smell for rotten egg odors. Do not use cylinders if you detect fuel is leaking from valves or connections.
During use, hold hand torches upright to prevent flare-ups or flashes. If appliance sputters or flares up, turn cylinder upright and turn unit off. Vent area to remove unburned gas. Slowly turn on. After hearing a slight hiss, re-light the torch.
Never use hand torches near pilot lights, flames, sparks, or other ignition sources. They can ignite leaking gas.
Allow hand torches to cool after use. Detach fuel cylinders when not in use and replace caps to keep valves clean.
Never drop, throw or puncture fuel cylinders. Store fuel cylinders away from living spaces and out of reach of children. Never leave in direct sunlight. Never store at temperatures above 120 degrees F (49 degrees C).
Get a Bernzomatic JT850 at Amazon here — http://www.amazon.com/dp/