"Richard Ferguson" wrote in message
...
I have been trying to use my Bernzomatic type propane torch for some
soldering, and it has been so frustrating that I have been grabbing my
Oxy-acetylene torch instead. The propane torch keeps going out,
especially when I invert the torch to solder something below the torch.

Is it typical to have problems if the bottle is above the torch?

Do I need a better torch? I am not sure about the brand of what I am
using, can't find a name, maybe a bad sign.

Would I be happier with a torch with a long hose connected to a large
bottle of propane? I have such a bottle in my shop, I have seen this
type of torch used by plumbers and others.

I am soldering sheet copper, around 0.020 inch to 0.040 (0.5mm to 1 mm)
thick, if that makes any difference. I do occasionally solder copper
pipes as well.

Thanks in advance,
Richard

I have a good Bernzomatic I bought in Canada. I had the same experience
with an all brass Bernz. This one is a swirl flame, loud, and very hot.
The nozzle is stainless and gets orange/red hot with extended use (probably
why I have not seen it in the local hardware stores). Electronic starting
with the nozzle 90degrees from the axis of the cylinder, called a "trigger
start 5000". It's pretty slick, the trigger turns the gas on and ignites it
with no adjustment necessary (flow knob on top can be adjusted to match the
job), just screw it on a cylinder and go. Sweating pipes takes a lot less
time with a swirl flame. Works with the cylinder upside down from a cold
start. I guess it's obvious I like mine. =)

No idea why they don't sell stateside, other than the scalding hot tube
thing.

StaticsJason