Gyrogami Blog - Precious Metals, Jewelry, Artwork

• Item being reviewed: Monster Blue Torch (single flame) ▼

  Q: What's this all about anyway?
  
  A: An air-aspirated torch/lighter.
• Manufacturer: Special Blue ▼

  Who makes this and what is their history?
  
  A: They make small lighters and torches of all kinds (not welding or oxy-fuel types).
• Retail price: $40 ▼

  What is the manufacturer's suggested retail price?
  
  A: Supplied by the manufacturer, discounts are likely to be found with some searching.
• Appearance: 9 ▼

  Q: Simply, how does it look? While subjective, does it have clean lines, professional appearance, etc.?
  
  A: It looks like a professional piece of equipment. It is larger than similar models which is helpful because it holds more gas and is easier to handle and hold.
• Packaging: 6 ▼

  Q: Is it thrown into a box or packed like a new smartphone?
  
  A: Simple packaging on this unit is effective and secure.
• Initial set-up time: Minutes ▼

  Q: After removing contents from box, how long before it can be used?
  
  A: All this needs is a quick charge of gas.
• "Plug and play": Yes-ish ▼

  Q: Is everything included or do you need to purchase additional equipment, supplies, or parts?
  
  A: It needs to be charged with butane before using.
• Additional costs or equipment: Minimal ▼

  Q: Not included with the purchase, what else is required and how much does it cost?
  
  A: This requires a butane cylinder to charge it.
• Set-up time for each use: Seconds ▼

  Q: From being stored properly and completely, is it grab-and-go or much more involved?
  
  A: Remove the cap covering the flame adjuster and on/off switch, turn the knob, press the trigger, and let there be fire!
• Storage provisions: 5 ▼

  Q: What or how is the equipment stored when not in use as provided by the manufacturer?
  
  A: This could be stored in its box but I tend to leave it out for quick access.
• Storage time: Seconds ▼

  Q: How long soea it take to store it safely and completely, cleaned and lubed, liquids drained, etc.?
  
  A: Just put it down and it's done.
• Ongoing costs: Minimal ▼

  Q: What is the cost of using the equipment: replacement parts from wear-and-tear, expendables, supplies, etc.?
  
  A: This item will need butane.
• Maintenance: None ▼

  Q: What is expected to keep the tool working properly: periodic maintenance, lubing, etc.?
  
  A: It either works or it doesn't and that's pretty much it.
• Usability: Easy ▼

  Q: Is it complicated to use?
  
  A: Push the trigger, adjust the flame, and away you go.
• Functionality: 9 ▼

  Q: How well does it do its job?
  
  A: The flame is fully adjustable up to its max and holds pretty consistently at any setting. Lower flame settings are not its strong point and the smallest flames will not ignite but can be adjusted to that level after the flame is lit.
• Robustness: Varies ▼

  Q: How well-constructed or flimsy is it?
  
  A: I have broken or worn out several which is unusual as I've had other torches for over a decade without issues. This is a weak poiint for sure.
• Value: 9 ▼

  Q: Based on price, performance, and function, is it worth it?
  
  A: This is the best, most versatile torch in its size. The flame is hot and precise, works perfect for jewelry.
• Adjustability: Excellent ▼

  Q: Can it be easily modified to accommodate different situations?
  
  A: The flame adjusts as needed and it can get pretty big for a torch of this size.
• Meeting expectations: 9 ▼

  Q: Does it work as well as others say or the manufacturer claims?
  
  A: It's my preferred torch of this size for a reason.
• Innovation: Average ▼

  Q: How ingenious or clever is the design or concept?
  
  A: These types of torches are quite common and they are about the same except for the flame profile and size. This one happened to nail it just right.
• Results: 9 ▼

  Q: What is the quality of the finished product or process? Anything below 6 - realistically, an 8 - is not decent quality.
  
  A: Very happy with how it works.
• Timeliness: Normal ▼

  Q: How do the results compare to the amount of time it took?
  
  A: It works just as fast as any flame of its size.
• Skill level: Minimal ▼

  Q: What mechanical aptitudes or skills does one need to use it?
  
  A: If you can use a flame then you're good to go.
• Documentation: Minimal ▼

  Q: Does it have detailed instructions, whether written (which it should no matter what) or on-line?
  
  A: Nothing much here.
• Customer service: 8 ▼

  Q: How quickly do they respond, can you speak with someone on the phone, are their answers satisfactory?
  
  A: They were quick to replace one that broke during the warranty period.
• Comparative: 9 ▼

  Q: How does this compare to similar machines within its price range?
  
  A: It would be challenging to find a better torch.
• Recommendation: Absolutely. ▼

  Q: My personal assessment of the device - basically, would I buy it knowing what I learned about it?
  
  A: I have several spares in the toolbox because they are that important. And, as always, this model will eventually be "improved and updated" and no longer function like it does now. For that matter, I better get a few extras.

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