Even with propane, the flame is more than hot enough to "quickly" solder 1/2"-1" copper tubing with lead-free solder. I like the igniter built into the handle! MUCH more comfortable than my old Turner (Acetylene) Turbo Torch. When I ran out of charcoal for my old burner and had ONE fitting left to solder to complete my new water heater installation (that doesn't happen close to "end of work"), I borrowed a Bernzomatic from a neighbor and loved it . If I run out of acetylene, I no longer have to drive 45 minutes one way to the acetylene supplier - Ace Hardware is a five minute walk away!