By Kerri Loudoun, Communications and Marketing portfolio leader (kerri.loudoun@skipatrol.ca)
Cold weather has certainly rolled in throughout the country, and this month’s “warm” tool may provide you with more uses than you might think!
Pocket torch
I have used this small torch on numerous patrol shifts on extremely cold days. While this lighter is designed for lighting cigars, it comes in very handy for any patroller who is regularly using padlocks outside. I tuck it in an inside chest pocket of my patrol jacket, and even after using it for 20 seconds, once the lid is closed, it’s still cool enough to place back in my pocket.
Possible uses for a pocket butane torch
- Frozen locks – Our toboggan caches all have padlocks and if a snow gun is on all night near any of the caches, our metal padlocks ice up to the point you cannot even get the key into the lock. This powerful torch makes quick work of any ice that is blocking the keyhole. Be sure to check there are no plastic parts on the outside of your iced lock!
- Nylon straps/webbing – Another helpful use for this torch is sealing frayed or recently trimmed nylon straps. Whether it is fencing or backpack straps, a quick pass with the flame of this lighter quickly melts the raw or frayed end.
- Tight nuts and bolts – Struggling to loosen a nut from a bolt? Blast the nut with the torch briefly to help loosen it.
- In your kitchen – For the chefs in our patrol, this little torch can be used for caramelizing sugar on your creme brulee desserts!
Get the right fuel
These torches typically take liquid butane. They also work in windy conditions and won’t blow out on you.
You can check out the two-pack currently sold on amazon.ca here.
If you have a neat piece of equipment or useful piece of kit, please send a description of the item, its use and a photo to 5×5@skipatrol.ca. We will feature it in an upcoming issue of 5/5.