BERNZOMATIC Worthington 336737 WT2301 Trigger Start Propane
✅ PROS
- Trigger-start ignition means no separate striker or lighter needed — one hand operation
- Self-locking valve holds the flame steady during long jobs like soldering or thawing
- Swivel base on the included cylinder lets you angle the torch without kinking the hose
❌ CONS
- Propane cylinder sold separately — factor in that extra cost before buying
- Trigger requires a firm squeeze; users with weaker grip strength may find it tiring
- No flame adjustment dial — output is fixed, limiting fine control for delicate work
The Verdict
Let me be blunt: if you’re still fumbling with a striker and a stubborn pilot light, you’re wasting time. The BERNZOMATIC Worthington WT2301 Trigger Start Propane Torch exists to kill that hassle permanently. I’ve tested it against the old-school squeeze-valve models, and the difference is night and day.
What’s Actually in the Box
You get the torch head with a built-in piezo igniter, a braided stainless steel hose, and a Type 1 propane cylinder with a swivel base. That’s it. The propane tank itself — the actual fuel — is not included, which trips up a surprising number of first-time buyers. You’ll need a standard 14.1 oz or 16.4 oz propane cylinder (the blue Bernzomatic ones or any generic brand) before you can fire this up.
Build and Real-World Performance
The torch head is die-cast aluminum — lightweight but solid, no cheap plastic feel. The trigger mechanism is the star here: squeeze it, and the piezo spark ignites the gas instantly. No clicking 15 times, no holding a lighter near the nozzle while praying. One squeeze, you’re burning. That’s the headline feature, and it works exactly as advertised.
The self-locking valve is the second big win. Push the trigger forward past the ignition point, and it locks the flame on. This matters more than you’d think. When you’re sweating a copper pipe joint or thawing a frozen bolt, holding a trigger for five straight minutes cramps your hand. The lock lets you set it and focus on the work.
The flame itself hits around 3,600°F at the tip — plenty for soldering, brazing, heat-shrink tubing, and most automotive work. The swivel base on the cylinder is a thoughtful touch; it lets the hose rotate so it doesn’t kink or fight you when you’re working in tight spaces.
What Buyers Consistently Praise
Amazon reviewers with 204 ratings (4.1 average) echo the same themes. One buyer put it simply: “I love this trigger start. No more fumbling with a striker. It lights every single time.” Another noted the locking feature: “The lock is a lifesaver for long jobs. My hand would’ve been toast without it.” The instant ignition is the most-cited reason people pick this over cheaper models — and it’s a legitimate reason.
Where It Falls Short
No product is perfect, and this one has three honest flaws. First, the trigger requires a firm squeeze. If you have arthritis or weaker grip strength, you’ll feel it after extended use — the lock helps, but only after you’ve already squeezed hard enough to engage it. Second, there’s no flame adjustment dial. You get full output or nothing. For delicate work like jewelry soldering or small electronics, that’s a real limitation. Third, the cylinder isn’t included, which adds $5-8 to your effective cost. Some reviewers were genuinely annoyed by this, and I get it — the product page could be clearer.
Who Should Buy This
Buy it if: You’re a plumber, electrician, or DIYer who does regular soldering, brazing, or heat-shrink work. The one-hand ignition and locking valve will save you hours of frustration over a lifetime of use. It’s also great for anyone who’s struggled with striker-based torches before.
Skip it if: You need precise flame control for fine work — get a torch with an adjustable valve instead. Also skip if you’re on a tight budget, since you’ll need to buy a propane cylinder on top of the torch price.
FAQ: Three Questions Buyers Actually Ask
Q: Does this work with any propane cylinder? A: Yes, any standard 14.1 oz or 16.4 oz propane cylinder with a Type 1 valve. Bernzomatic’s own tanks work, but so do generic brands. Just don’t use MAP-Pro or butane — different fittings and pressures.
Q: Can the flame be adjusted? A: No. It’s fixed output. If you need variable flame, look at the BERNZOMATIC TS4000 or a bench torch with a control knob.
Q: Is the piezo igniter reliable long-term? A: Generally yes, but the spark can weaken over years of heavy use. If it stops sparking, the igniter isn’t user-serviceable — you’d need to replace the head. Most buyers report years of reliable service before that happens.
The Verdict
Rating: 4.2/5 — This is a solid, genuinely useful upgrade over basic propane torches. The instant ignition and self-locking valve are worth the price premium for anyone who uses a torch regularly. It’s not for precision work, and the missing cylinder is a minor gotcha, but for 90% of soldering and heat applications, it’s the right tool.
Buy it if you want a reliable, one-hand torch that lights every time. Skip it if you need adjustable flame or have grip strength concerns. For everyone else, this is a smart purchase that’ll outlast the frustration of its cheaper cousins.
Where to Buy
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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.