Best Cutting Torches Outfits
A cutting torch outfit is designed to cut through the metal at very high temperature. When oxygen is added to the acetylene gas, it produces a flame that can burn at over 5,500 degrees! Using them does require some preparation and training but its a skill anyone can learn.
There’s a lot you can do with this heat besides cutting metal. It can also be used to braze, weld, and even loosen up those stubborn bolts. These cutting torches use two canisters of gas, one of acetylene and one for oxygen. The items that come in the outfit make up the rest of the cutting torch and include hoses, pressure regulators, the torch handle, heating tips, and more. When used together, you have a gas-powered flame that will cut through many different materials. The torch outfit can also cut through far thicker material compared to a plasma cutter.
Of course, not all cutting torch outfits are the same. Many come as complete kits with extra nozzles and accessories while others are bare bone. The better kits on the market also include carrying cases to store and protect the torch when not in use. Dirty nozzles and banged up valve levers are key causes of malfunction so a case can greatly extend the life of the torch components.
So which outfits are worth investing in? Here are a few of the best Cutting Torches available today.
Victor Technologies Medalist 250
The Medalist 250 cutting system by Victor Technologies is designed for medium duty projects and can cut up to ½” thick metals (5″ with the purchase of additional tips) making it a very versatile tool. It also welds metals up to 1.25″ think with optional nozzles. It includes built-in check valves to stop gases from flowing in reverse, which is a nice safety feature. This cutter also has a very comfortable handle with an ergonomic design. The knobs are color-coded to make it easy to use.
Pros:
- A good cutting torch for beginners.
- Optional tips allow cutting materials up to 5” thick.
- Excellent build quality.
- Features a five-year warranty.
Cons:
- Extra accessories required for max cutting and welding.
- Does not include a carrying case.
Miller Electric MB55A-510 Oxy-Acetylene Tough Cut
The Miller Electric MB55A-510 touch cut outfit includes a number of items you’ll need as a new welder. It’s designed for light to medium cutting and welding, including DIY projects and tasks you may need to do around the farm. The slip-in tip design makes changing nozzles easy. This outfit also includes a three-tube design that always keeps the oxygen and the acetylene separate. This means you don’t have to worry about mixing tube burnout. The handle features a double-tube system that reduces the overall weight while also making the handle stronger. The outfit includes three tips (welding, heating, and cutting) along with safety glasses, regulators, and other items.
Pros:
- High quality Smith triple tube torch included.
- Multiple tips included.
- Quick change tip system.
Cons:
- A little higher in price than some other kits.
- Tips and nozzles not compatible with other manufacturers.
- No case.
Hobart 770502 Medium Duty Oxy-Acetylene Kit
Hobart is known for making quality welders, and that quality also extends to cutting torchs. The 770502 Medium Duty Oxy-Acetylene Kit is great for beginners who aren’t going to be cutting very thick metal that often. It includes everything you need to cut and weld. The torch is easy to use and comfortable to hold as long as you’re not doing heavy-duty work. For the beginner, this is certainly a good option that won’t cost you a large amount of money. It includes brazing and cutting tips, regulators, a visor, striker, and hoses. The included tips will cut up to ½” thickness and weld metals up to 3/32” thickness.
Pros:
- Good for DIY and hobby projects.
- Reasonably priced.
Cons:
- Not the best for heavy duty projects.
- Does not include a case or extra tips.
RX WELD Oxygen Acetylene Torch Kit
RX Weld’s cutting torch and welding kit is a great starter cutting torch kit at a very good price. If you’re looking for a value cutting torch kit to start out with on a budget, this is a great option. It includes everything needed to get started with oxygen and acetylene gas cutting, as well as a storage case that organizes all the components, keeping them clean and secure. This kit includes (3) Tips, Gauges and 15′ of hoses. It’s not a kit intended for heavy or professional use, but for a DIY welder, it does enable cuts of up to 6″.
Pros:
- Good start set for occasional / DIY cuts.
- Includes a carrying case and multiple tips.
Cons:
- Component quality is sub-par.
- Minimal warranty.
Goplus Gas Welding Cutting Torch Kit
The Goplus cutting torch kit contains a number of different items that any beginner welder or metal worker needs. The kit includes regulators for both gases, a cutting attachment, a cutting nozzle, 15 foot hose, spark lighter, welding goggles, and other necessities. Everything is organized and stored in a durable case, making for easy transport and storage. It doesn’t come with any extra cutting tips, but its a small concession given the low cost of this kit. The included tip is rated for cutting ½” thick metals, while the welding tip is rated for 3/16” materials.
Pros:
- Durable storage case included.
- Low price.
Cons:
- Not as high quality as more expensive options.
- No cutting extra tips provided.
Conclusion
Even if you already own a Plasma Cutter, a Cutting Torch makes a valuable addition to the shop, especially If you frequently work with thick materials. Having the ability to do light welding and brazing are also benefits to purchasing this useful and flexible tool.
The above cutting torch kits are all good options for the beginner. Some of them may fit your needs better than others, so be sure to read over what each offers before selecting your perfect torch kit.
