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Looking for a reliable hardware torch to tackle soldering, plumbing repairs, outdoor weed control, or crafts? You’re in the right place. From easy-to-use butane mini-torches to heavy-duty propane blowtorches, the right torch can feel like a magic wand for home maintenance. This guide walks you through the best brands, where to buy them in the US, what features matter, and how to choose a torch that fits your projects and budget.
A torch is more than a flame — it’s control, speed, and safety bundled together. When you pick a quality torch, you spend less time fussing with inconsistent heat and more time finishing the job. Cheap torches can sputter, clog, or fail when you need them most, while well-built models provide a steady flame, predictable temperature, and useful safety features. Think of a good torch like a reliable power tool: it doesn’t do the work for you, but it makes the work far easier and often safer.
When buyers talk about torches, Bernzomatic comes up a lot — and for good reason. They make a range of handheld and hardware torches used by plumbers, electricians, and hobbyists. But don’t stop there; other mainstream brands also deliver solid performance and value.
Bernzomatic produces a wide lineup: handheld butane units for jewelry and crafts, propane torches for roofing or weed control, and multi-use kits for plumbing and metalwork. Many Bernzomatic models offer adjustable flames that can reach temperatures up to approximately 3,600°F, which is hot enough for brazing copper or loosening stubborn bolts. Their products are widely available through US retailers and are known for durability and replacement parts availability.
Besides Bernzomatic, consider brands like Mag-Torch, Worthington, Newport, and common house-brand options at big-box retailers. Harbor Freight’s in-house labels often provide budget-friendly blowtorches, while brands sold at Home Depot or Lowe’s may emphasize industrial-grade components and parts availability. Each brand has trade-offs between price, reliability, and repair options — knowing your project needs helps narrow the field.
When it comes to buying torches, choice and convenience are key. You can find torches in big-box stores, home improvement chains, and specialty tool retailers. Here’s a quick tour of reliable places to buy torches in the United States.
Walmart stocks a broad selection of torches, from mini butane units to larger propane torch kits. The advantages are clear: competitive pricing, a wide network of physical stores, and easy online ordering with in-store pickup. If you need a basic torch for occasional home tasks — soldering a copper pipe or lighting a grill — Walmart is a convenient, wallet-friendly option.
Home Depot typically leans toward trade-grade torches and accessories. Their selection often includes heavy-duty propane torches, replacement nozzles, hose kits, and compatible fuel cylinders. If you’re a DIYer who wants a step up toward professional gear, Home Depot’s inventory and staff knowledge can help you find tools that last through frequent use.
Lowe’s blends value and mid-level professional options. You’ll find torch kits suitable for plumbing, metalwork, and roofing, often bundled with useful accessories like spark ignition and adjustable flame controls. Lowe’s is a good middle ground if you want a durable torch without paying for high-end industrial models.
Looking for the cheapest way to try a torch out? Harbor Freight often carries lower-cost torches and multi-tools. Their gear can be a great entry point for occasional users, but for heavy or safety-critical work, consider investing in a more robust brand. Harbor Freight frequently runs coupons and sales that make testing multiple torch styles affordable.
Ace Hardware and Tractor Supply provide accessibility through local stores and helpful staff. Ace is strong on small-scale repairs and hobbyist torches, while Tractor Supply often stocks outdoor-focused torches for landscaping and agricultural tasks. If you like getting advice face-to-face before buying, these local chains are convenient and practical.
Not all torches are created equal. Knowing the type of torch you need cuts confusion and prevents buying the wrong tool for the job.
Propane torches are the workhorses of home repair. They run on common propane cylinders and produce a stable flame ideal for roofing, weed control, brazing, and loosening rusted bolts. Propane torches typically produce flames in the range of 3,000°F, depending on nozzle and design. They’re suited for outdoor and well-ventilated tasks because they burn hotter and longer than small butane units.
MAPP gas (or modern propylene blends) burns hotter than standard propane, often reaching over 3,500°F. That extra heat makes MAPP-style torches better for heavy soldering and brazing tasks that require faster heat-up times. However, MAPP fuel is usually more expensive and less commonly stocked in every store.
Butane torches are small, handheld, and perfect for jewelry, small soldering jobs, culinary uses, and hobby work. They’re compact enough to fit in a toolbox and can be ignited with a piezo or thumb-spark. The flame temps are lower than propane, generally under 2,500°F, which is actually desirable for delicate work.
These kits bundle torches with interchangeable tips, carrying cases, and fuel connectors. They’re popular for home users who want flexibility — switching between a fine soldering tip and a broad flame for roofing without buying multiple devices. Bernzomatic and other brands offer multi-use kits that pair well with basic home tool collections.
When you’re comparing models, certain features are real differentiators. Keep an eye out for these when deciding which torch to take home.
Being able to tweak the flame size is essential. For delicate soldering you want a small, controllable flame; for roofing or weed burning you want a broader, hotter flame. Adjustable valves add versatility and reduce fuel waste.
Piezo or spark ignition eliminates the need for matches or a lighter, making startup quicker and safer. Manual ignition torches can still be fine, but integrated ignition is convenient and often more user-friendly for beginners.
Choose fuels that are easy to find in your area. Propane cylinders are ubiquitous in the US, while MAPP and specialty canisters are less common. If you plan to use the torch often, factor in fuel cost per hour of operation.
Look for features like child-resistant valves, flame guards, and automatic shutoffs. Some torches include locking switches or stands that let you set the torch down safely while it cools. These small details make a big difference in day-to-day safety.
Match the tool to the task. The wrong torch makes work harder and less safe. Here’s how to pick the correct style for typical home projects.
For soldering or brazing copper, you’ll want a torch that gets hot quickly and holds heat—MAPP-style torches or higher-output propane models are ideal. A 1/2-inch to 1-inch copper joint needs concentrated heat and a steady flame; smaller butane torches will struggle and prolong the task.
Large-area tasks like roofing or paint stripping benefit from broader propane flames and larger nozzles. These torches cover more surface without having to hold the flame inches away for a long time. Always follow safe roofing practices and keep a fire extinguisher within reach.
Micro-torches and butane soldering irons excel for electronics and fine metalwork. Their lower flame temps reduce the risk of damaging nearby components. For circuit-level work, consider a temperature-controlled soldering iron instead of an open-flame torch.
Butane micro-torches are perfect for jewelry annealing, glasswork, and even crème brûlée. They’re compact, portable, and controllable. For intricate tasks, choose a torch with a fine, focused flame and an ergonomic grip.
Torch safety is non-negotiable. Even a small flame can cause serious injury or start a fire if you’re careless. These rules aren’t just for pros — they’re for any homeowner using a torch.
Use safety glasses, heat-resistant gloves, and long sleeves. Sparks and hot metal can fly—think of safety gear as invisible insurance. For overhead work, a face shield adds extra protection.
Work in a well-ventilated area, especially when using torches indoors. Keep flammable materials at least several feet away — 3 to 6 feet is a good guideline for typical setups. When working inside, open windows and use fans to prevent fumes from accumulating.
Maintain a safe standoff—usually 6 to 12 inches—between flame and materials when heating intermittently, and adjust as the job requires. Never leave a lit torch unattended, and set it in a stable stand while it cools. Store canisters upright and never near direct sunlight or temperatures above what the cylinder rating allows.
Allow torch parts to cool before refueling. Use approved hoses and fittings, and check for leaks with soapy water before every use. If you smell gas, stop and ventilate immediately; do not ignite the torch until the area is safe.
Like any tool, a torch lasts longer with a little love. Regular cleaning and inspection prevent clogs, leaks, and poor performance.
Carbon and debris can clog nozzle tips. Use a soft brush or recommended cleaning wires to clear buildup. For stubborn clogs, soak removable tips in a solvent recommended by the manufacturer, then dry thoroughly before reinstalling.
Check hoses for cracks and fittings for corrosion before each use. Replace worn parts promptly. A worn hose can leak fuel and create a dangerous situation that’s easily avoidable with a quick inspection.
Store torches and fuel cylinders upright in a cool, shaded location. Keep fuel away from living areas and check local rules about storage indoors versus in a shed or garage. Mark used parts and keep replacement nozzles on hand to avoid downtime for urgent repairs.
Price doesn’t always equal performance. You can find excellent torches at Walmart or go for higher-priced trade models at Home Depot — the trick is aligning cost with use frequency and job criticality.
If you use a torch a few times a year, a $20–$50 butane or basic propane unit can be perfectly adequate. For weekly use, spend more on a rig rated for frequent operation and with replaceable parts. Professional units often cost $100 or more but can last years and provide worthwhile reliability.
Compare prices across retailers: Walmart for convenience and budget options, Home Depot and Lowe’s for mid- to professional-grade gear, and Harbor Freight for occasional low-cost buys. Look for bundled kits if you’d like multiple tips and a carrying case — they often deliver better value than buying accessories separately.
Choosing the right hardware torch doesn’t have to be confusing. Start by matching the torch type to your typical projects, then pick a reputable brand and a retailer that suits your budget and convenience needs. Walmart and other national retailers make it easy to get started, while brands like Bernzomatic supply proven designs for heavier use. With the right torch, a little safety gear, and a bit of practice, you’ll handle soldering, brazing, roofing, and creative projects faster and with more confidence.
| Hardware Torches | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Trigger Start Multi Use Torch Kit | $ 141,70 | |
| Bernzomatic Trigger Start Multi Use Torch Kit | $ 142,06 |
