Advice on buying a Butane Mini Torch

[ForBell]

I've had a need to have one of these things. Sometimes my propane torch is just too big for a job. I know there are several mini Butane torches out there, anyone have a favorite? Best price for the best one? How does the Blazer torch match up to others? I bought the Ronson Tech Torch yesterday for $25. It came with electronic ignition, soldering tips, and nice flame adjustability, but its little red plastic safety lever promptly broke. Here's the Blazer torch

http://www.amazon.com/Blazer-BLZGB2001-Self-Igniting-Butane-Micro-Torch/dp/B0002STQ6Y/ref=pd_sbs_hi_1/103-0187194-1310259

[ForBell]

WTF? All online sellers of the Blazer (BLZGB2001) Self-Igniting Butane Micro-Torch require a state tax ID #. More protection from our dumb selves?

Note:In accordance with Consumer Safety Products Commision regulations, BLAZER products are not available for sale to the general public. These products are available for sale to commercial and industrial purchasers only, and will only be shipped to valid business addresses. Please provide a valid state tax identification number when ordering BLAZER product. Add this id number to the shopping cart comments field during the checkout process. Thank you for your cooperation.

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[scottmandue]

Yeah I noticed that too...

I have a thread here about lighting cigars and I thought about getting a little torch like that BUT my experience with refillable butane lighter has been really bad.

I don't know if they are the same but food supply and gourmet shops are carrying very similar looking torches.

[CurtEgerer]

Mine's from Harbor Freight. $6, made in China. It reminds me of a small mulotov cocktail without the rag. It hasn't blown up yet. But I'm expecting it to.

[scottmandue]

I don't know if this thing will get as hot as you want but this is the sort of thing I was talking about.

Torch

[scottmandue]

Better yet from Ronson:

Torch

[ForBell]

Originally posted by scottmandue
I don't know if this thing will get as hot as you want but this is the sort of thing I was talking about.

Torch

Yeah, found those on cooking sites; for when one wants to scorch one's cream.

I'll need to see if they have flame adjustability. I could use those ramikens for small parts dishes or to feed my turtles if I had turtles.

This chrome beauty is made by Messermeister. $40

http://www.chefdepot.net/minitorch.htm

All of the ones I've looked at are made overseas. The Ronson unit I bought is made in Taiwan, but Ronson makes it a point to say that the extra Butane canister is MADE IN USA. I'm so proud.
That second link, Mr. due, is to an older version of the Ronson Tech Torch I just bought. I may just return it for replacement.
The search continues. Thanks boys.