The Best and Trusted Cutting Torch Brands You Should Be Using

welder setting up plasma cutter

Welding Buddy Experts

May 14, 2021
cutting torch

Constructions, whether small or big, should always be done flawlessly. Welders and cutters have a more significant purpose besides putting together materials like steel, copper, aluminum, and even wood. In the tradesman's hands lies the safety of many other people who visit a building, ride a vehicle, or use a machine. 

Safety and quality work are why the creation process should always be handled carefully. Every step of the way, engineers and construction workers should be using the right tools to cut steel, copper, aluminum, and other kinds of materials.

This article will discuss the basics of cutting and some kits you can use to create quality output. 

What is a cutting torch? 

It is a tool that allows a welder to cut different materials, particularly steel. Other types of cutting torches require specific types of fuels. The fuels listed below can cut at different paces and qualities, so you have to choose which among them best fits your project. 

  • Acetylene
  • Propane
  • Propylene
  • MAPP
  • MAP-Pro
  • LPG
  • Gasoline
  • Hydrogen
  • Oxygen
  • Natural gas

Cutting torches also have different tips that satisfy different needs. With the continuous development of technology, cutting torches’ triggers have evolved from manual ignition to automatic ones. 

It would help if you looked for all these characteristics when choosing a kit to buy. Of course, the torch is only a part of the tool you will be using, so you still need to find a complete set to get your work going. You can buy a cutting torch kit for your convenience. 

The trusted brands

We have focused on two brands and classified their models according to their fuel, cutting capacity, and safety. You can quickly look for a cutting torch for sale, but it is still better to go for the tried and tested brands. 

Victor cutting torch kits

Victor Performer

cutting torch Victor Performer

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Fuel Type

The Victor Performer uses acetylene as fuel. Although a bit costly, it is one of the most effective fuels for cutting.

Usage 

The Victor Performer includes parts for your welding, heating, and cutting needs. If you are still at the beginning of your welding journey, using this kit is a good start. 

Classified as “medium-duty,” this kit enables you to cut ½″ to 6″ of steel using the correct tip. While you can use other kits only for cutting, the Victor Performer Medium-Duty Outfit allows you to weld ¼″ to 1.25″ of materials with the proper nozzle. 

Safety

This cutting torch set includes ESS3 Series regulators, Victor’s flagship regulators known for their safety. The Edge Regulators’ design enables you to quickly identify the gas and check gauges. Together with goggles and proper attire, you know you are safe.

Victor Journeyman 450

cutting torch Victor Journeyman 450

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Fuel Type

The Victor Journeyman 450 also uses acetylene as fuel, ensuring perfect and quick cutting and welding. 

Usage

This torch is for welding beginners and students. The kit is perfect for starters as it includes a torch, regulator, cutting attachment, welding nozzle, and cutting tips. 

The Victor Journeyman 450 can cut and weld 1/2″ to 3″ material with the proper nozzle. 

Safety

This kit is complete with a 315FC torch handle and SR Series regulators, which ensure the users’ safety. 

Victor Journeyman 300

cutting torch Victor Journeyman 300

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Fuel Type

The Victor Journeyman 300 is a gas cutting torch that uses oxygen and acetylene. The mixed gas is capable of producing 3,500°C/6,332°F burning temperature, so your welding and cutting can be quick, and you will have a polished output. 

Usage

The kit is complete with nozzles and tips for welding, heating, and cutting. These can cut up to ¾″ and weld up to ½″ of materials when properly used. 

Safety

The SR450 Regulators have gauge guards, so you are updated on the oxygen and acetylene level you are using. The ergonomically designed torch handle gives comfort and security while in use. 

Victor Journeyman Edge 2.0

cutting torch Victor Journeyman 300

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Fuel Type

The Victor Journeyman Edge 2.0 is another set that is acetylene- and oxygen-capable, so it is reliable for heavy-duty use. 

Usage

The tips and nozzles of this kit can cut up to 8″ and weld up to 3″. You can use them for industrial welding and cutting because of their heavy-duty capacity.

Safety

The Edge 2.0 regulator is the highlight of this kit. Its state-of-the-art function shows the correct levels of oxygen and acetylene. 

Victor Medalist 350

cutting torch Victor Medalist 350

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Fuel Type

You can use propane and acetylene for the Victor Medalist 350. The fuel choices allow the user to pick between the faster-burning acetylene and the cheaper but still suitable propane. 

Usage

The Victor Medalist 350 is heavy-duty. You can use it for larger-scale projects and construction. It can weld up to 5/64″ with the proper nozzle and cut up to ⅜″ with a suitable torch tip. 

Safety

It uses G350 Series regulators that accurately tell the user how much gas is being used. The knobs are also color-coded for increased safety. Striker and goggles are also included to assist the user in lighting the torch and keep them safe. 

Miller/Miller-Smith Torch Kits

Miller Medium-Duty Propane Combination

cutting torch Miller Medium-Duty Propane Combination

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Fuel Type

The Miller Medium-Duty Propane Combination uses propane and LPG.

Usage

This kit can be used by hobbyists and professionals alike. It features the Graf-Tite seats for the tip, ensuring precise and smooth welding or cutting and quick attachment and removal of the tip. You can use them for a long time because of their durability.

You can use the Miller Medium-Duty Propane Combination for cutting and heating. 

Safety

It has a Series 30 regulator that provides accurate information about gas usage. Its gauges can stand any pressure. 

Miller-Smith Oxygen-Acetylene Torch Kit

cutting torch Miller-Smith Oxygen-Acetylene Torch Kit

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Fuel Type

This torch kit uses a combination of oxygen and acetylene fuels, which is perfect for fast and precise cutting. 

Usage

The Miller-Smith Oxygen-Acetylene Torch Kit is capable of cutting up to 6″. You can also use it for heating with its 40,125 BTU/hour capacity and welding of up to ⅛″. Assorted tips are also included in the set. 

Safety

For safety, the MD regulators attached to the 20′ twin hose provide information on the amount of gas being used while working. The welding glasses included are a welcome addition to your safety attire. 

Value Collection Welding Outfits

Cutting torch value collection welding outfits

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Fuel Type

All Value Collection Welding Outfits use oxy acetylene fuel type. It is a go-to brand for welders who are comfortable using the gas combination for their projects. 

Usage

The different variations of this welding outfit feature different capacities on welding and cutting.

  1. ½″ maximum cutting and 3/16″ welding capacity
  2. ¾″ maximum cutting and ½″ welding capacity
  3. ½″ maximum cutting and ¼″ welding capacity

Safety

All Value Collection Welding Outfits have oxygen and acetylene regulators that will show you the amount of gas you are using. An igniter to light up the torch safely is also included in the kit.

Setting up: a step-by-step guide 

Different brands and torch kits have different ways of setting up, so the best way to know how to set up a cutting torch is to check the user manual. Once you have set up the tool successfully, follow this step-by-step process of using it.

  1. Open the valve for the oxygen.
  2. Open the valve for the acetylene.
  3. In your torch, there are three knobs—two for oxygen and one for acetylene. Always start by opening the acetylene. 
  4. To light up the torch, use a striker.
  5. You will see the torch glow because of the white fire. Open the oxygen knob just the right amount so that the fire turns blue.
  6. Hit the trigger, and start cutting.
  7. Once done, close the oxygen first, and then the acetylene. Some brands do it the other way around, so it is always best to check the user manual on how to use a cutting torch.

Following these steps is essential because doing it the wrong way can pose a danger or even cause a fire inside your work area. 

Summary

Victor and Miller-Smith are two brands from which you can buy kits. These kits will aid you in your small projects or industrial welding needs. Each product variation offers different capacities for cutting, welding, and heating. Some kits also have torch parts that are not included in other kits. 

To pick a suitable kit, you generally need to look into the fuel type and different safety features. To decide better, determine your needs, and then look for the model that satisfies them.

With the right kit, you will ensure your safety at work. With the quality of your output, you safeguard the people who will use the products you made. You can achieve these valuable end results by giving importance to the small detail of choosing the right tool in working.

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