Tool Review: Portasol High Power Adjustable 50-820W Flame Power Torch

Q: How did the tool function as far as saving you time?   

A: This is a very handy tool to have. It’s small enough to fit into a tool box drawer, but it has the power and heat output of a much larger torch. It also has an igniter built in so you don’t have to have anything additional to light it. 

Q: What kind of setup was involved before using the product?   

A: The only setup necessary was to take it out of the package and fill it with butane. Legally they cannot be shipped with butane in them. 

Q: How easy was it to use?   

A: Very easy. You simply pull out the safety lock button, push the gas valve in part way to start the gas flow, and then push the gas valve in the rest of the way to ignite the flame. There is a knob on the top of the torch to adjust the intensity of the flame.  

Q: Was there a manual included?  

A: There was a manual included. I looked at it briefly. It was easy to understand, and did a good job of explaining the operation of the torch.  

Q: What features did you like?    

It is a very handy size, especially for the amount of heat that it puts out. (The manufacturer claims up to almost 2500 degrees F) It has a decent size base so that it will stand up very well. The gas valve locks on so that you can use it one-handed or even just sitting on the base. The flame control knob is right on top, easy to get to and change. 

Q: Is there any way you could think to improve the tool? 

A: It’s pretty much a two-hand operation to turn it off. You have to hold onto the torch and pull the gas control valve out. It would be nice if there was a way to shut it off without having to use two hands. 

Q: What types of jobs/repairs did you use this tool for?   

A: I used it for heating stuck and rusted bolts and nuts and soldering copper plumbing pipes. I tried it for soldering wires and heat shrink but it had a little too much heat for the area I was working in. 

Q: Have you used a previous version of this tool?  

A: I have used a micro torch and the standard torch that screws onto a disposable butane tank. This torch has more heating power than the micro torch but is a much handier size than the disposable tank torch.