Rating of mini gas burners: seven best offers + what to look for when choosing

A gas burner is a highly functional fuel-burning equipment that does not require an electrical connection. This is very important when working outdoors, hiking, etc. Despite the fact that such devices have existed for a long time, their active use began several decades ago. As manufacturers improved designs, increased failure tolerance, and improved repairability, gas burners quickly gained popularity. Unlike other portable devices, they have important advantages:

• lower consumption compared to gasoline;
• the injectors do not become clogged, because the fuel has no impurities;
• no unpleasant odor;
• optimal dimensions and weight;
• instant heating.

When choosing a gas burner, you should pay attention to some points:

• absence of strong noise;
• complete combustion of gas;
• ease of use;
• additional functions;
• automatic regulation.

A gas burner is certainly a useful device. When purchasing it, you need to take into account the above features, as well as reviews of specific models. Our rating presents the best torches for soldering and travel, equipped with various useful functions.

The best soldering torch with piezo ignition

A gas torch is used in various fields and differs in size, shape, operating principle, etc. One of the most common types is a soldering torch. It is in demand among repairmen and in the home. The internal device consists of a valve into which gas enters through a special channel and is then mixed with air in the mouthpiece, forming a flame. The most convenient burners are made in the form of a nozzle on a spray can. Their small size makes them easy to take with you. Based on customer reviews, we have compiled a rating of the best gas torches for soldering in all respects.

What are they?

Burners are distinguished by purpose, design, and types of fuel used. The intended purpose of burners largely determines the variety of their types and the conditions in which they are used. So, they distinguish:

• mini-burners (small);
• manual;
• portable travel;
• household;
• "pencils";
• for soldering;
• with gas control;
• infrared;
• alcohol

For example, portable units are used for:

• processing of wood products;
• devices with a “pistol” type directed flame are often used in installation types of work;
• processing of steel parts using solders;
• for making fires;
• for heating and cutting metal fragments;
• for thawing frozen pipelines.

Burners are a useful tool in auto repair shops, during the construction of greenhouses and other household structures. They are also divided according to the methods of attaching the cylinders. Several such types are known:

• on thread;
• collet - put on and turn a little;
• valves - on clamps;
• pierceable - connection with soft pressure.

Most often, threaded connections are used - they are reliable. Punctureable - do not turn off until the gas in the cartridge runs out.

The disadvantage of collet connections is that the fastener quickly becomes loose, leading to gas leaks. Valve types are more reliable.

Manufacturers use various types of flammable substances to inflate cartridges. The final selection of flammable substance is based on the intended use of the products, the required fire temperature, and power. To improve the composition parameters, several types of fuel are often mixed. The most commonly used combinations are:

• propane-butane (70: 30) - mainly for use in summer;
• propane, butane and isobutane in various combinations;
• MAPP – methyl acetylene propadiene (for welding).

Cartridges are often produced that are filled with some homogeneous substance. Fuel selection is especially important when work is planned in extreme weather conditions.

The best tourist gas burners

Traveling is one of the most common pastimes of modern people. Many people will prefer a trip to the beautiful places of our Motherland over a tour abroad. Naturally, this type of vacation requires some preparation. To cook food or heat water outdoors, you will need a special device. A gas burner is a particularly popular type of portable fuel equipment. She will be an excellent assistant on a hike. Tourist models are lightweight, highly fault-tolerant, and maintainable. The rating includes the best gas burners according to travelers.

Tips for choosing the best burner

People buy compact hand burners with pleasure, as they have many advantages over liquid fuel, more “serious” devices. They light quickly, hardly get dirty, and require a minimum of care.

Using a manual model is easy: the flame power can be adjusted and the torch can be directed at any angle, which is important when working in cramped conditions

Do-it-yourself refilling of mini-burner cans

Before starting the refilling process, make sure that the cylinder does not have any remaining gas mixture. It is turned over so that the valve is at the bottom and shaken.

Refilling process for mini burner:

1. Take ordinary scales and weigh the empty cylinder so that after the process is completed you can determine the exact amount of fuel mixture filled.
2. Connect the container to be filled with a propane cylinder using an adapter.
3. Close the valve on the adapter.
4. Open the valve on the can.
5. Gradually open the valve on the adapter, at this moment gas enters, squeezing the air out of the hose.
6. Monitor the filling process and, after completion, disassemble the circuit in the reverse order.
7. Disconnect the tourist cylinder.
8. Using the shaking method, the presence of gas is determined; the liquid in the vessel should flutter, which indicates the presence of a mandatory free space, which experts call a gas cap.
9. Check the valve for leaks with a soap solution. Verification by fire is strictly prohibited.

DAYREX DR-45

• Cylinder connection: collet
• Nozzle diameter: 20mm
• Power: 1.1 kW/0.946 kcal
• Warm-up time: 120 s.
• Flame regulator: yes
• Fuel consumption: 1.12 g/hour
• Max operating temperature: 1300°C
• Dimensions: 200*40*60 mm
• Weight: 165 g

The TOP 7 includes a gas burner with piezo ignition DAYREX DR-45, which is most often purchased for repair work, hunting, fishing, and household needs. Its main advantages are the absence of soot, adjustable flame, and high efficiency. The Anti-leakage system prevents gas leakage at the connection points between the burner and the cylinder. The rubber gasket provides additional protection.

The maximum open flame temperature is 1300°, its length is 135 mm. The fuel heating function allows the burner to be used in different positions. Preheating takes up to 2 minutes, after which the nozzle with the cylinder can be rotated 360°, and the nature of the flame will not change.

Users liked the quality of the device. The attractive design, convenient ignition, compact size, and durable materials were highly appreciated. The burner performed well in open spaces. In windy weather the flame does not blow out. Piezo ignition works reliably at low temperatures.

Precautions for use

A hot water burner, like any tool that produces a flame during operation, is a high-risk tool.

Therefore, when using it, you must follow a number of rules that will help protect yourself and others, as well as carry out the planned processes efficiently:

• regularly carry out a preliminary inspection of the structure, make sure that the equipment is in good condition and that there is no risk of gas leakage due to a damaged hose or connections;
• when igniting gas, do not stand in front of the nozzle, do not direct the fire towards the gas cylinder, hoses, or people;
• in the process of fusing various materials, carefully control the flame, avoid excessive heating and accidental fires;
• do not go beyond the working area with the device;
• Do not work near gas cylinders or gas pipelines - the safe distance is at least 10 meters.

Fire extinguishers and sandboxes should be present at the workplace to help suppress a fire in the event of a fire. If the connecting hose or glass is clogged, the device cannot be used. This may be indicated by popping noises, kickbacks, or overheating of the equipment.

Having identified such problems, you should turn off the device by shutting off the fuel supply. Do not use wire or other sharp objects to clean the mouthpiece.

To protect your eyes from the harmful effects of infrared and ultraviolet radiation, it is advisable to use special glasses with light filters. You need to work in clean, oil-free workwear and non-slip shoes

In addition, the device must be extinguished correctly. First of all, the fuel supply is shut off, and then the lever is released.

It is not recommended to leave the tool turned on during breaks in work: it is better to extinguish the flame. If a significant break is planned, you need to shut off the gas supply to the cylinder by tightening the reducer valve.

How to choose a torch for connecting copper pipes is described in detail in the following article. We recommend that you read the useful information material. The torch soldering technology is given here, the process is outlined in great detail.

TOP 7 best models

The selection includes burners of different types and manufacturers. The best models in their categories in terms of characteristics and popularity were selected.

Location #1 - Pathfinder GTP-R02

The device is domestically produced and belongs to the universal group. The burner will come in handy in many situations: hunting, fishing, or on a camping trip.

The design includes a gas supply button lock - you can turn on the device and install it. There are two flame regulators - length and volume.

The advantages of the model are compactness, ergonomic design, ease of use, ease of use, automatic piezo ignition with one button, rechargeability

Characteristics:

• manufacturer - Russia;
• weight (g) - 177;
• dimensions (mm) - 157*97*57;
• material - plastic, stainless steel;
• Piezo ignition - yes.

The burner has been tested by users in everyday life and in the field, and has been used to work with copper solder, warm up frozen lines, eliminate insects in hard-to-reach places, treat wooden surfaces, remove varnish and paint.

In cooking, the device is convenient for caramelizing foods, processing meat carcasses, changing the texture and color of ready-made dishes, lighting a barbecue, or a fireplace.

The device can be refilled with any lighter gas. In general, it is the simplest and most popular device for household needs. No significant shortcomings were identified in the model.

Place #2 – Fire-Maple FMS-103

This burner is so successful that it has been produced since 2003 and still remains relevant.

In the line of the Chinese manufacturer, it is one of those designs that are lightweight and powerful at the same time. It can be used to heat water and cook food in any conditions.

The device produces a high narrow torch, which gives maximum efficiency with this configuration. The power of the device is 3000 W. The design is minimalist, easy to use, and has a built-in windscreen. The holding feet fold up compactly.

The model is suitable for small group or solo trips. It is popular among fans of light travel, athletes, and is good as an auxiliary or emergency device.

Boiling time for 1 liter of water is 3.5 minutes. One 110 g cartridge is consumed in half an hour, 450 g in 2 hours. The volume of dishes is up to 5 liters.

Characteristics:

• manufacturer - China;
• weight - 103 g;
• dimensions (mm) - 123*80 (70*95.5 when folded);
• material - aluminum, stainless steel;
• piezo ignition - no.

The design includes a nipple and a special system that prevents fuel loss when connecting or disconnecting a replaceable cartridge. This technique provides additional fuel savings.

The burner can be used with any threaded type cartridges. If you purchase an additional adapter FMS-701, it can be connected to a collet cylinder.

The device is supplied in a hard box, which prevents damage during transportation and is convenient for storage. Special teeth holders allow you to secure the dishes well.

Users note a stable flame that is not extinguished even by strong winds. And a simple design, no flimsy parts.

Disadvantages include the tightness of the seal and the quality of the rubber sealing ring. Its average service life is 1 year. Another disadvantage is that the gas supply is regulated by a wire that is too thin.

Place #3 – Honest 503 Jet

The main advantage of the model is its compactness. The device is suitable for hookah ignition, can be used for soldering electrical wires and parts, annealing varnish and paint, heating-soldering metal and plastic, crimping heat-shrinkable tubes and as a household lighter.

The burner is equipped with piezo ignition and a safety button. A 10 ml canister guarantees continuous operation for 5-8 minutes. Flame temperature - 1300°C. Refills with ordinary methane, propane-butane.

The device is equipped with a flame regulator, a thin-wide and high-low (1-2.5 cm) feed switch. The set with the burner is complemented by a folding stand in the housing

Characteristics:

• manufacturer - China;
• weight (g) - 61;
• dimensions (mm) - 160*25*20;
• material: heat-resistant plastic, stainless steel;
• Piezo ignition - yes.

Users note good build quality, despite the price. The advantages include ease of use - you can maneuver with one hand, there is a folding stand. One drawback is that during long-term operation, frequent refueling is required.

Place #4 – KEMPER micro 12500

Universal, multifunctional blowtorch. The device can regulate the air supply and fix the flame.

The device generates a directed gas jet, which heats up to 1200°C. This temperature is sufficient for soldering copper, bronze, brass, precious metals, and removing old paint.

Refilled with a branded KEMPER 10051 cylinder. One refill is enough for a maximum of 70 minutes, the duration depends on the intensity of use

Characteristics:

• manufacturer - Italy;
• weight (g) - 166;
• dimensions (mm) - 160*97*57;
• material - plastic and stainless steel;
• Piezo ignition - yes.

The stand is removable, you can use the burner without it. The device is convenient as a filling pen in cooking, for heating liquids and frozen pipes.

Among the advantages, buyers highlight the ergonomics of the housing and the presence of a flame regulator. The disadvantages of the model are that there is no wind protection, it is more suitable for stationary use in a garage or workshop.

Place #5 – Kovea Auto KT 2301

The torch is popular among jewelers and aircraft modellers; it is ideal for precision work with metal parts. A thin, needle-shaped flame 5*70 mm warms up to 1300°C.

The cutter is the most compact representative of the manufacturer’s line; it fits completely in the hand. The burner is economical in fuel consumption: it consumes only 15 g of gas per hour.

The device is designed to work in tandem with a high cylinder from the same company, KGF-0220. The device does not connect to standard threaded cylinders; no adapter is provided

Characteristics:

• manufacturer - South Korea;
• weight (g) - 125;
• dimensions (mm) - 130*46*144;
• material - plastic, stainless steel;
• Piezo ignition - yes.

The device has a flame power regulator. On the other side of the body it is duplicated and secured with a bolt, if necessary. The burner can be rotated freely during operation.

Place #6 – Tourist Mini-1000 TM-100

This camping burner is compact and functional. The body consists of folding elements; the size of the plate belongs to the smallest category among its competitors.

The device will be a universal solution if you need a hiking assistant for a team of 5-8 people. The device can be used all year round.

A distinctive feature of the model is a remote hose (30 cm), which increases safety and provides ease of use. The design allows you to put the cylinder in a tent or sleeping bag if the weather is frosty.

As the gas is used, when the pressure inside the cylinder begins to drop and the burner becomes unstable, the cylinder can be turned over. Other designs do not allow this. Thanks to the folding legs and pan rack, the stove fits easily into a small box for transport.

Thermal power of the burner is 1.5 W. The water heats up in 5 minutes. When igniting outdoors, no debris remains after operation of the device

Characteristics:

• manufacturer - Korea;
• weight - 450 g (640 g with case);
• dimensions (mm) - 100*60*160;
• material - stainless steel, plastic;
• Piezo ignition - yes.

The maximum gas consumption per hour is 150 g, which is quite economical for such power. The flame does not go out in the wind.

Buyers like the reliability of the assembly, simplicity of design, and stability. Another advantage is the flexible hose with good protective braiding, which does not heat up even after an hour of operation of the device.

Among the disadvantages, users note that the flame is not smoothly adjusted, its weakness at the minimum flow setting and impetuousness at the maximum. The second nuance is the poor location of the ignition button.

The device has good performance in terms of price and quality ratio. If you need a model that is lighter in weight and more stable in operation, it will cost 3-4 times more.

During operation of the device, it is necessary to ensure that no liquid leaks onto the burner. If this happens, it is recommended to wash the stain with soap and wipe dry.

Place #7 – ENERGY GT-03

The burner has an ergonomic design. Despite the simplicity of the design, the device is easy to use.

The flame heats up to 1100°C. To operate, the device is connected to standard collet cylinder cartridges with a butane-propane mixture or isobutane.

After 2 minutes of warming up, the burner lamp can be rotated at any angle. Gas consumption per 1 hour - 220 g

Characteristics:

• manufacturer - China;
• weight (g) - 200;
• dimensions (mm) - 200*40*69;
• material - brass, stainless steel, plastic;
• piezo ignition - no.

The model is suitable for lighting a fire in the field, heating frozen pipes, minor repair work, and jewelry soldering. The nozzle unwinds and consists of two parts.

The device is equipped with a manual gas supply regulator, which is quite sensitive. During operation, you need to ensure that the cylinder does not tip over. It is not recommended to tilt the device more than 45° - leaking liquefied gas may ignite.

Users like the long nozzle, low price of the device, and smooth power adjustment. But the visual unreliability of the design confuses me, although all connections fit well, the gas does not bleed.

Energy Welding GTI-100

• Cylinder connection: collet
• Nozzle diameter: 20mm
• Power: 1.1 kW/0.946 kcal
• Warm-up time: 120 s.
• Flame regulator: yes
• Max operating temperature: 1300°C
• Dimensions: 203*40*63 mm
• Weight: 170 g

Next, let's look at the Energy Welding GTI-100 torch. After 2 minutes of heating, the flame stabilizes and it can already be used in different positions. Thanks to the ergonomic design, the hand does not get tired and the quality of work does not decrease. It will take a few seconds to connect the burner to the cylinder. The nozzle fits tightly and does not allow gas to pass through. With long-term repeated use of the device, the retainer retains its properties.

Piezo ignition works without false starts. The nozzle is made of brass. The flame adjustment handle is made of plastic. For convenience, there is an arrow on it showing the direction of decreasing and increasing the parameter. The adjustment knob also serves as the ignition button.

What are users saying? Most people recommend purchasing a burner. Among the advantages are quality of workmanship, ease of operation, affordable cost, and the ability to work from any angle. The GTI-100 model is actively used in life. It is used for lighting coal, defrosting pipes and locks, in cooking, for firing paint, and in hobbies.

What to do if it doesn't burn well

Often users of a gas burner on a can encounter a situation where the gas burner does not burn well. To avoid clogging of the burner nozzle, experts advise filling such devices only with purified fuel mixture used for filling lighters.

A common reason for the mini-burner to stop functioning is the ring in the nozzle falling out, after which the spark does not hit the ring, but flies in different directions, in which case ignition does not occur.

If the ring is lost during operation, it must be replaced by making it from ordinary copper wire.

What is it used for?

There are many different versions of this tool on the market, which increases the overall functionality of all such gas equipment.

A similar tool is actively used for:

• drying the material from excess moisture
• melting parts
• soldering metal or plastic objects
• removing ice dams
• lighting a fire
• heating parts (heat treatment)

The popularity of gas burners is so great that this device has penetrated into a variety of areas of activity. The tool can be found on the roof during roofing work, in a tourist’s backpack, in the hands of an engineer, and even sometimes in medicine.