Pencil torch question

[SportPilot]

Hello,
I am new to TIG welding and to this forum. I started MIG welding after retirement, and decided to try TIG since I need some smaller more delicate welds for some of my metal art projects. I am having a hard time handling the #26 torch as I have small hands. I am considering a #9 torch that I should be able to handle better. I found on line a #9 pencil torch that looked pretty interesting. Has anybody used one? If so, what do you think of it? Advantages? Disadvantages? It seems like holding it like a regular pencil would be more natural since we are all familiar with holding a pencil or pen when we write. Thanks.
Darryl

[redbeard]

Welcome to the forum Darryl.

I soldered a lot of electronics kits together as a kid so I find it generally more comfortable to hold the torch like a pencil too. I have a #20 (same size as 9, just water cooled) flex head and usually bend it out as close to straight as I can. You might look at the CK flex-loc, most owners seem to like them and it should get pretty close to straight while also retaining the option to get many other angles in different situations.

[Mr120]

What kind of amperage are you generally using to TIG weld? If you aren't welding with high amperages, you might be able to go down to a lighter duty torch. I find the CK torches seem to be a bit smaller and lighter but can run at a higher amperage / duty cycle. Everlast carries CK torchs, BTW.

[SportPilot]

Most of the mild steel I work with is 3/8 inch or less, and is more commonly in the 1/8-1/4 inch range. I also do a lot with 1/16 and 3/32. I have been practicing my welding with the amps in the 100 -150 range at most. As I say, I am just getting used to TIG, but that setting has been more than adequate for my needs so far. I saw a video by Jody on Weldingtipsandtricks.com on YouTube, on the Flex-Loc Torch, it looked pretty nifty. But, CK does not seem to rate their torches like other air cooled torches: e.g., #9, #17, etc. Perhaps I am missing it. I guess I could call or write to them and see what they have to offer that would do the trick for me. Thanks.

[zoama]

CK has the standard sizes. Here's the pencil torch page... http://www.ckworldwide.com/pencil_torches.htm

[SportPilot]

Excellent. Thank you all for your help. I am also considering the Flex-Loc torch and a Flex Head torch. I am just trying to obtain a torch that I can handle and will give me at least some flexibility when I need it.

[zoama]

Excellent. Thank you all for your help. I am also considering the Flex-Loc torch and a Flex Head torch. I am just trying to obtain a torch that I can handle and will give me at least some flexibility when I need it.

Any of the 2 series CK torches with superflex leads will make you happy up to 150 amps. Ck torches can be purchased through Everlast sales.