Pencil torch question

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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Originally Posted by 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.

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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.