HI EVERYONE.
I am new to the forums and jewelry making. I was instructed to get an
acetylene B tank which is manageable.
I know I need to get some sort of kit to start up. I have been
researching the options but am wondering what are other’s experience
and opinions.
I’m guessing if I get one of the kits that is all I will need, as
regulators, hose, and tips are provided.
Thanks ahead of time!
katie
I have two acetylene B tanks On has a prestolite torch and the other
a Smith silversmith torch. Each has its advantages. It is easier to
change the tips on the silversmith, but I find the handle of the
prestolite is kinder to my hand, and easier to use. The silversmith
torch handle is round, more slippery and I find it harder to hold.
Alma
The silversmith torch handle is round, more slippery and I find it harder to hold.
This may just be a quirk of mine but lately I’ve been holding the
Silversmith torch with the adjustment knob in about the center of my
palm, which gives a very good grip on the torch. By holding around
the knob the torch can’t rotate in my hand. I can keep a loose grip,
and my hand is very relaxed.
In addition, I can smother the air intake by closing my fingers
around the base of the ‘tip’, making the flame more reducing and
softer. I can exercise a lot of control over the flame this way, very
easily and quickly.
Neil A.
I have two torches, both with Smith heads. It is easy to adjust them
or change heads. Not so (in my experience) the Prestolite. When I
teach left-handers, it’s easy to accomodate them.
I have damaged joints in my hands, so it’s very difficult for me to
adjust the head on the Prestolite so it’s on tight and pointing the
way I want, and the gas knob is not in my way.
Disclaimer - the Smith torches I use are my own, used only by me.
The Prestolite torches I have used are ‘common use’ in classes and
get fiddled with by jewelers of all skill levels…they get some hard
usage.
best regards,
Kelley