Recommendations for a WP20 flex head torch

[MattH]

So I'm enjoying learning some AC with Hugh's old R-Tech 201 but I find that my biggest issue is comfortably orrienting the torch.
To solve this I'd like the get a decent torch with a flexible head and nice light cables.

What are people's recommendations?

 

[Chris Stevens]

I have CK Flex Loc, which is very good indeed. Quite a lot of money though, but any CK things often work out cheaper direct from USA.

 

[MattH]

I think I'd have to get my hands on one of those to try first as they look completely different to a standard torch.

 

[Chris Stevens]

They are a lot nicer to use than std torch, as you can set the head to any angle you want, which is perfect for awkward jobs.

 

[MattH]

Can you get a Speedway with a flex head?

 

[ukracer]

I have a flexible head matt. Not sure what make it is but I will see if my son can bring it down to me so you can test it..

 

[MattH]

That would be great mate.

 

[ukracer]

That would be great mate.

I think it's this one.
www.r-techwelding.co.uk/welding-equipment/tig-welder-consumables/tig-welder-torch/tig-torch-universal/

SP-WP9F-12SP

 

[Richard.]

They are a lot nicer to use than std torch, as you can set the head to any angle you want, which is perfect for awkward jobs.

I disagree. These are not to everyone's taste. Marmite.
I don't like the angles.

 

[Richard.]

Can you get a Speedway with a flex head?

Yes you can Matt.
Best wp20 torches bar none imo.

 

[MattH]

Yes you can Matt.
Best wp20 torches bar none imo.

I'm happy to spend the money as it's something that will get looked after. And if it helps my welding then it's money well spent.

@Jim Davey can you supply a Speedway WP20F with the fittings for an RTech (no switch)?

 

[Richard.]

Why no switch Matt.
Your limiting your self without one. You don't have to fit it till you need it as it just clips on the handle but it's best to have it should a little job pop up that can't be done sat down with a pedal.

 

[MattH]

Why no switch Matt.
Your limiting your self without one. You don't have to fit it till you need it as it just clips on the handle but it's best to have it should a little job pop up that can't be done sat down with a pedal.

I guess but at that point am I going to be lugging around the water cooler or just taking the welder and a gas cools torch?

 

[Richard.]

I guess but at that point am I going to be lugging around the water cooler or just taking the welder and a gas cools torch?

It's a good point.
I only ever use my pedal for AC
I much prefer the switch on DC.
So for me the switch is essential.

 

[Richard.]

Ironic in it.
Your just getting started with a tig welder something I can use with either hand through years of practice in the same way I'm starting out with a little lathe something you can use to a professional level. Living closer I feel would be a real benefit to us here.

 

[Chris Stevens]

I disagree. These are not to everyone's taste. Marmite.
I don't like the angles.

I own Flex Loc and fixed head torches, and on balance the Flex Loc is the better choice as its far more adaptable and makes jobs which are difficult/impossible with a fixed head torch possible/easy.

 

[Richard.]

I own Flex Loc and fixed head torches, and on balance the Flex Loc is the better choice as its far more adaptable and makes jobs which are difficult/impossible with a fixed head torch possible/easy.

It's opinion based.
I find them abnormal.
The conventional type is better imo.
That flex loc head always sits off side when adjusted.

 

[Chris Stevens]

It's opinion based.
I find them abnormal.
The conventional type is better imo.
That flex loc head always sits off side when adjusted.

Not opinion based at all.................as its sometimes physically impossible to get a fixed head torch into the right position to weld something properly, so unless jobs like that are never going to be encountered for most the FL is the better choice.

 

[Richard.]

Not opinion based at all.................as its sometimes physically impossible to get a fixed head torch into the right position to weld something properly, so unless jobs like that are never going to be encountered for most the FL is the better choice.

Jeeeeez we've been down this road a million times. It is very opinion based because imo they are not very nice things to use. I find there shape odd. I've welded some difficult to get into stuff quite easily without one. I understand some people like them I'm not one and I'm not alone either.
Impossible joints with a standard torch that a fl will do?????
Put some pics up of those I'd like to see them.

 

[Richard.]

@Paul.
All those intricate parts and variation in jobs that you do on a daily basis, you must have one of these flex loc torches. If not I'd suggest you get one before you come across an "impossible" joint that will bring business to a holt.
Chris I'm not saying they ain't good because some people do like them. But anyone telling me they are essential are talking dribble because they ain't for everyone. Like I said in another post the world would be an awful place if we all liked the same thing.