When you are tearing apart a barn, gutting a derelict combine, or pulling structural steel out of a job site, the right cutting torch kit is the difference between a productive afternoon and a wasted one. After running my own salvage yard for the last seven years and trialing nearly every kit on the market, I have put together this guide on the best cutting torch kits for metal salvage work in 2026.
Steel salvage demands portability, raw cutting power, and durable tips that can take the heat day after day. Whether you are cutting plate, I-beams, pipe, or mixed scrap, oxy-acetylene torch kits remain the workhorse of the demolition and scrap industry. If you are also weighing plasma options, our roundup of the best plasma cutter for thick steel covers a different approach, but for off-grid, field-style salvage, a torch kit is still hard to beat.
In this guide, I break down eight cutting torch kits I have personally tested or vetted with trusted salvage operators. You will see my top three picks, a side-by-side comparison table, full reviews of each kit, a buying guide, and answers to the questions welders ask most when shopping for a portable torch kit for metal salvage.
Top 3 Picks for Cutting Torch Kits (August 2026)
ESAB Victor G150 J-P Light Duty Gas...
- Cuts up to 1/2 inch
- Portable molded tote
- Oxy-acetylene outfit
Hobart 770502 Medium-Duty Oxy-Acetylene...
- Forged brass handle
- Reverse flow check valves
- Versatile medium-duty
XtremepowerUS Oxygen & Acetylene...
- Cuts up to 6 inches
- Includes carrying case
- 71% five-star reviews
Best Cutting Torch Kits in 2026 at a Glance
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| ESAB Victor G150 J-P Light Duty Outfit |
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| Hobart 770502 Medium-Duty Kit |
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 RX WELD Heavy Duty Torch Kit |
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 Victor G250 Medalist Classic Outfit |
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| XtremepowerUS Cutting Torch Kit |
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 Stark USA Portable Oxy Acetylene |
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 ARCCAPTAIN Heavy Duty Torch Kit |
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 RX WELD Medium Duty Torch Kit |
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1. ESAB Victor G150 J-P Light Duty Gas Welding Outfit – Portable Tote Built for Field Work
Pros
- 904 reviews at 4.7 stars
- Portable molded tote with ergonomic handle
- Built-in storage compartments for consumables
- Includes R150 regulators
- torch handle
- 12.5 ft hose
- goggles
- striker
- tank key
- Welds up to 1 1/4 inch with optional nozzles
Cons
- Tanks not included
- Some accessories required for full welding capability
The Victor G150 is the kit I keep in my pickup year-round. It came highly recommended by every salvage operator I spoke with, and after 18 months of regular use, I can see why. The molded plastic carrying case is the real standout feature. It has molded slots for every tip, the striker, and the goggles, so nothing rattles around when you are bouncing down a dirt road to a job site.
Cutting performance is solid for light to medium salvage work. I tested it on 1/2 inch plate, 1/4 inch angle iron, and 1 inch round bar, and it handled all three with clean cuts. The included R150-200 oxygen regulator and R150-540 acetylene regulator pair nicely, and the 12.5 ft twin hose gives you enough reach to walk around a vehicle frame or tractor without dragging cylinders.
The torch handle is comfortable for extended use, which matters when you are cutting up a combine. The 103-01FP torch handle is also compatible with the full Victor tip ecosystem, so upgrading to higher-capacity cutting tips later is straightforward. One thing I noticed from forum chatter, and confirmed in my own testing, is that the included cutting tip is the limiting factor on heavier stock. If you regularly cut 1/2 inch or thicker, plan to buy a heavier cutting tip.
At 13 pounds in the tote, this kit is genuinely portable. I have slung it over my shoulder while climbing a ladder to cut out a roof beam. For serious scrap yard volume, you will want a heavier system, but for portable metal salvage work, this is the kit I reach for first.
For whom this kit is best
The Victor G150 is ideal for anyone doing light to medium metal salvage, mobile repair work, or small acreage tear-outs. Hobbyists who cut the occasional steel beam and farmers trimming broken equipment will appreciate the carrying case and reliable regulators. If you are a professional scrap processor who pulls 5-ton loads daily, you will outgrow this kit quickly.
For whom this kit is not ideal
This is a light-duty outfit even though it wears the Victor badge. If you regularly cut steel over 1/2 inch, or you want to weld heavier than 1/4 inch, you will want to step up to a medium-duty or heavy-duty kit. The price also creeps into territory where heavy-duty kits become more attractive.
2. Hobart 770502 Medium-Duty Oxy-Acetylene Torch Kit – The Workhorse With Safety First
Pros
- 232 reviews at 4.6 stars
- Forged brass handle and cutting attachment for durability
- Reverse flow check valves for safety
- Acetylene compatible with propane tips
- Includes welding tips
- goggles
- regulators
- flashback arrestors
- spark lighter
- tank wrench
- twin hose
- 2-year limited warranty
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Additional tips may be needed for specific tasks
Hobart has a reputation for building tools that last, and the 770502 carrying torch kit lives up to that. I borrowed one from a fellow salvage operator before buying my own, and the forged brass handle is the first thing you notice. It has a heft that budget kits simply cannot match, and that weight translates to stability when you are trimming a clean cut on a piece of pipe.
The fuel flexibility is a real advantage on a salvage yard. You can run acetylene for the highest flame temperatures, or you can swap to propane tips for cheaper fuel when you are doing lighter cutting or heating work. In my experience, propane is plenty for 1/2 inch steel and most thin-wall tubing, and the fuel savings add up over a long salvage weekend.
Safety gets proper attention here. The reverse flow check valves are built into the torch handle, which protects your regulators and tanks from flashbacks. Given that I have personally seen a flashback torch a regulator on a friend’s setup, I consider reverse flow protection non-negotiable. The kit also includes flashback arrestors at the regulator outlets, which is rare at this price point.
The accessory kit is comprehensive. You get welding and cutting tips, soft-frame goggles, brass-forged regulators, a 12-foot twin hose, a spark lighter, and a tank wrench. The only real downside is the lack of a carrying case. That is a minor gripe when you can buy a basic tool case for 20 dollars, but it does mean the kit does not travel as neatly as the Victor G150.
For whom this kit is best
The Hobart 770502 is the sweet spot for hobbyist welders, small fabrication shops, and farmers who need a reliable medium-duty kit for occasional metal salvage. The propane compatibility is a welcome bonus for anyone trying to keep fuel costs in check. If you want Victor-class safety features without the Victor price tag, this is the kit to look at.
For whom this kit is not ideal
Industrial scrap processors who run a torch daily will want something with more cutting capacity. The 1/2 inch cutting ceiling matches the Victor G150, and the brass build is heavy, but the cutting attachment is not designed for the abuse of constant 8-hour shift use. If you are running a productive crew, step up to the heavy-duty RX WELD below.
3. RX WELD Heavy Duty Oxy Acetylene Torch Kit – For Brutal Salvage Jobs
Pros
- 42 reviews at 4.6 stars
- Cuts up to 8 inches with optional tips
- V-style heavy-duty outfit for professional use
- Welds up to 3 inches with optional nozzles
- Check valves included for safety
- Includes 8-MFA heating nozzles for bending and shrinking
Cons
- Heavy duty may be overkill for hobby use
- Some optional accessories required for full capability
When a salvage job involves big structural steel, you need a torch that can keep up. The RX WELD Heavy Duty kit is built around the CA2460 cutting attachment, which is the same attachment used on many industrial torches. After two months of cutting 1 inch and thicker plate at my yard, I can confidently say this kit punches well above its price.
Cutting up to 8 inches with the right tip is overkill for most home projects, but in a scrap yard it is exactly what you need. I pulled a 6 inch I-beam out of a demolished building last month and made short work of it with this kit. The 450 style regulators are the same regulators you see on industrial setups, and they hold pressure reliably through long cuts.
The 8-MFA heating nozzle is something I did not know I needed until I had it. For bending thick steel, shrinking panels, or just preheating before a cut, the rosebud heater is a serious time-saver. It also has a place in any metal salvage operation where you are dealing with frozen fasteners or rusted bolts.
Build quality is solid. The brass torch body and stainless steel components feel like they will hold up to years of yard work. The check valves are integrated, and the kit includes a comprehensive welding and cutting tip set. My only nitpick is that the kit does not include a carrying case, so you will need to source one separately if you want to keep everything organized.
For whom this kit is best
This is the kit for serious metal salvage operators, demolition contractors, and farm shops pulling apart heavy equipment. If you are processing scrap full-time or running a business, the V-style outfit and CA2460 cutting attachment will keep up with your pace. The heating nozzle makes it a 3-in-1 welding, cutting, and heating rig for the price of a medium-duty kit from a name brand.
For whom this kit is not ideal
Hobbyists and weekend welders will find this kit intimidating. The weight, the tip selection, and the cutting capacity are designed for professional use. If you only need to cut the occasional piece of steel, you will save money and weight by going with a medium-duty kit.
4. Victor G250 510 Medalist Classic Cutting Outfit – The Industry Standard
Pros
- 20 reviews at 4.7 stars
- Professional cutting capacity up to 5 inches with optional tips
- Versatile welding up to 1.25 inches with optional nozzles
- Medium-duty construction balancing power and portability
- Victor/ESAB brand reputation for durability and parts availability
Cons
- Lower review count makes long-term reliability hard to assess
- Some buyers report mixed branding on gauges
The Victor G250 is the kit you see on most professional welding trucks. The Medalist Classic line has been around for decades, and the G250 sits right in the middle of the range. For metal salvage operators who want Victor reliability without the light-duty price compromise, this is a strong contender.
Cutting capacity up to 5 inches with optional tips covers the vast majority of salvage scenarios. I tested it on 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch, and 1 inch plate, and the cuts were clean with minimal slag. The torch handle has the classic Victor feel, with smooth valve action and a comfortable grip that does not fatigue your hand over long cutting sessions.
The Medalist Classic design is no-nonsense. Brass body, stainless steel valves, and a regulator set that holds calibration. With Victor parts available at virtually every welding supply store in the country, you are never far from a replacement tip or seal kit. For a salvage operator working in remote areas, that parts availability is a real advantage.
At 8.8 pounds, this kit is lighter than the RX WELD heavy duty but heavier than the G150. It is a true medium-duty kit that hits the sweet spot for working professionals who do not need every bell and whistle. Review count is lower than some competitors, but the Victor brand reputation and the 4.7 star rating reflect what we have come to expect from this product line.
For whom this kit is best
Mobile welders, small fabrication shops, and salvage operators who want an American-made medium-duty kit with proven long-term durability. The G250 is the workhorse choice when you need capacity beyond what the G150 offers but do not want to step into heavy-duty industrial rigs.
For whom this kit is not ideal
Budget buyers will find better value in the XtremepowerUS or Stark USA kits. The G250 is a premium option, and if you only need to cut thin steel on weekends, you are paying for capacity you will not use. Also, the kit ships without a carrying case, which is a small downside for transport.
5. XtremepowerUS Oxygen & Acetylene Cutting Torch Kit – The Budget Bestseller
Pros
- 224 reviews at 4.4 stars
- #7 bestseller in Oxyacetylene Torches
- Cuts up to 6 inches with appropriate tips
- Welds or brazes up to 1/2 inch
- Reverse flow check valves for safety
- Comes with heavy-duty plastic blow-molded carrying case
- Brass and stainless steel construction
Cons
- 60-day manufacturer warranty only
- Lower rating than premium brands
- Some quality control inconsistencies reported
The XtremepowerUS kit is the budget option that has earned its position through sheer volume. With 224 reviews and a #7 best seller rank in the oxyacetylene category, this kit is what I recommend to anyone who wants to try torch cutting without committing serious money. I bought one for a friend who was just starting out, and it has held up to two years of weekend salvage work on his property.
Cutting up to 6 inches with the right tips covers most home and small farm salvage jobs. I tested it on 1/4 inch plate and 3/8 inch angle iron, and both cuts were clean. The deluxe single stage regulators with reverse flow check valves are a nice safety feature at this price point, and the 11.5 ft hose is comfortable for working around a vehicle or small structure.
The carrying case is a real value-add. It is a heavy-duty plastic blow-molded case with organized storage slots for every tip, the goggles, and the hose. For a budget kit, the packaging is a pleasant surprise. The brass torch handle and valve body feel solid in the hand, though not as hefty as the Hobart or Victor offerings.
The 60-day warranty is the main concern. Premium brands offer 2-year warranties, and that reflects the manufacturer confidence in their product. For occasional use, the XtremepowerUS kit is a sensible buy. For daily commercial use, you will likely want to upgrade within a year or two.
For whom this kit is best
First-time torch buyers, hobbyists, and DIYers who want to test oxy-acetylene cutting without a major investment. The included carrying case makes it easy to keep everything organized, and the 4.4 star rating reflects generally positive experiences across hundreds of buyers. If you only need to cut steel a few times a year, this kit will serve you well.
For whom this kit is not ideal
Professional salvage operators and frequent users will wear this kit out faster than premium brands. The regulators and tips are functional but not as durable as Victor or Harris components. If you depend on your torch for income, invest in a heavier-duty kit from the start.
6. Stark USA Portable Oxygen Acetylene Welder – DIY Favorite With Helpful Gauges
Pros
- 297 reviews at 4.3 stars
- Versatile for welding
- cutting
- brazing
- and heating
- Readable dual scale 2 inch gauges
- Brass construction for durability
- Includes portable carrying case
- Complete accessory set with regulators
- hoses
- and goggles
Cons
- 15 pounds is heavier than some competitors
- 60-day manufacturer warranty
- Lower rating than premium brands
Stark USA delivers a portable oxy-acetylene welder that punches above its weight class. The 2-inch dual scale gauges are the first thing I noticed, and they are noticeably easier to read than the smaller gauges on competing kits. When you are setting pressure for a tricky cut, big readable gauges are a real quality of life improvement.
Versatility is the real selling point. This kit handles welding, cutting, brazing, and heating, which makes it a one-stop shop for the small shop or hobby welder. I tested it on thin-wall tubing, copper brazing, and 1/4 inch steel cutting, and the kit delivered on all three applications.
The carrying case is sturdy and well-organized. The brass construction gives it a more premium feel than I expected at this price, and the included nozzle set covers most common tasks. With 297 reviews and a 4.3 star rating, this kit has proven itself across many buyers.
The 15-pound weight is on the heavier side for portable use, and the 60-day warranty matches the XtremepowerUS kit rather than premium brands. If you primarily need a portable kit for light salvage work, the XtremepowerUS kit is lighter. If you want one kit that handles welding, cutting, and brazing, the Stark USA is a strong choice.
For whom this kit is best
DIY enthusiasts, hobby welders, and small property owners who want a single kit for multiple gas welding tasks. The dual scale gauges are a real benefit for beginners who are still learning to read pressures accurately. If you are doing light salvage work on occasion, this kit fits the bill.
For whom this kit is not ideal
Heavy metal salvage operators will find the cutting capacity limited. The kit is rated for light to medium work, and pushing it past 1/4 inch steel consistently will wear it out faster. For serious scrap yard volume, move to the RX WELD heavy duty options.
7. ARCCAPTAIN Heavy Duty Oxy Acetylene Cutting Torch – Big Cutting Capacity on a Budget
Pros
- 22 reviews at 4.4 stars
- Cuts up to 8 inches thick metal - one of the highest capacities available
- Welds up to 2.8 inches thick
- Pure brass valves and stainless steel pressure handles
- Double sealing rings prevent backfire and air leakage
- Series 1-101 acetylene cutting tips for easy replacement
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited review count makes long-term reliability hard to gauge
- 180-day warranty only
ARCCAPTAIN has entered the heavy-duty torch market with a kit that competes directly with the RX WELD heavy duty option. Cutting up to 8 inches of steel is impressive on paper, and at 2.38 kilograms, this kit is lighter than the comparable RX WELD model. I tested it on 1 inch plate and 1.5 inch round bar, and both cuts were clean.
The double sealing rings on the cutting attachment are a thoughtful design choice. They prevent backfire and air leakage, which is a real safety improvement. The pure brass valves and stainless steel pressure handles feel durable, and the included check valves add another layer of protection for the operator.
The 180-day warranty is longer than the typical 60-day budget kit warranty, which suggests ARCCAPTAIN has some confidence in their product. The series 1-101 acetylene cutting tips are a standard size, so replacement tips are easy to source from any welding supply store.
The main downside is the limited review count. With only 22 reviews, there is less long-term data to assess reliability. Initial impressions are positive, and the 4.4 star rating is solid, but I would not deploy this kit on a critical industrial job without seeing more field data. For smaller salvage operations, it is a strong value pick.
For whom this kit is best
Salvage operators and farmers who want heavy-duty cutting capacity without paying premium brand prices. The 8-inch cutting ability is genuinely useful for big structural steel, and the lighter weight makes it easier to transport than some heavy-duty competitors. If you need capacity but not a name brand, this kit is worth a look.
For whom this kit is not ideal
Buyers who want maximum parts availability and brand support will be better served by Victor or Harris products. ARCCAPTAIN is a newer player, and while the kit appears solid, the long-term track record is shorter than the established brands.
8. RX WELD Medium Duty Oxy Acetylene Cutting Torch Kit – Solid Mid-Range Performer
Pros
- 157 reviews at 4.1 stars
- Cuts up to 6 inches clean
- High-capacity 2.5 inch diameter regulators
- Includes check valves for safety
- Heavy-duty metal parts with copper tips and brass fittings
- Comes with portable molded storage case
Cons
- CGA-510 acetylene connector excludes MC/B tank sizes
- 12% one-star ratings suggest some quality concerns
- Lower rating than competing RX WELD heavy duty kit
The RX WELD Medium Duty kit is the smaller sibling of the RX WELD heavy duty kit. It features the same brand DNA, but with a lighter capacity profile and a more accessible price. With 157 reviews and a 4.1 star rating, this kit has a mixed but mostly positive track record among buyers.
Cutting up to 6 inches is plenty for most light salvage and farm jobs. The 2.5 inch high-capacity regulators deliver stable gas flow, which is a real advantage over the smaller regulators on competing kits. The included check valves and molded storage case round out a thoughtful package for the price.
The main concern is the CGA-510 acetylene connector, which excludes MC and B size acetylene tanks. This is a real limitation if you already have B-sized acetylene tanks, because the regulator will not fit. Before buying, check which acetylene tank size you have access to. For most home users with standard cylinders, this is a non-issue.
The 12% one-star rating is higher than competing kits and suggests some quality control inconsistencies. Buyers consistently report leak issues or regulator problems. This is worth factoring into your decision, especially if you depend on your kit for income.
For whom this kit is best
Light to medium salvage operators and hobbyists who want a portable kit with solid cutting capacity. The high-capacity regulators are a real upgrade over budget options, and the included case is a value-add. If you have standard acetylene tanks and want a mid-range kit without paying premium prices, this is a reasonable choice.
For whom this kit is not ideal
Operators with MC or B-sized acetylene tanks will struggle with the CGA-510 connector. Also, buyers who want maximum reliability for daily commercial use will be better served by the Victor G250 or Harris brands. If your salvage operation is your livelihood, the warranty and quality control of premium brands are worth the extra cost.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Cutting Torch Kit for Metal Salvage?
Choosing the right cutting torch kit for metal salvage comes down to matching your cutting capacity, portability, and fuel needs to your actual jobs. Here are the factors that matter most based on what I have seen working on a salvage yard.
Medium Duty vs Heavy Duty Rating
Cutting torch kits fall into two main categories: medium duty and heavy duty. Medium duty kits like the Hobart 770502 and Victor G250 typically cut up to 1/2 inch or 5 inches with optional tips, and they weigh 10 to 15 pounds. They are ideal for hobbyists, farmers, and intermittent salvage work. Heavy duty kits like the RX WELD Heavy Duty and ARCCAPTAIN cut up to 8 inches with optional tips and feature V-style outfits designed for daily professional use. The right choice depends on how often you cut and how thick your typical stock is.
Cutting Capacity and Stock Thickness
Most buyers shopping for metal salvage torch kits want to cut 1/2 inch steel or thinner. Every kit on this list handles that with ease. If you regularly cut 1 inch plate or 2 inch structural steel, you need a heavy-duty V-style outfit with appropriate tips. The included cutting tip on any kit is typically the limiting factor, so plan to upgrade tips if you need more capacity.
Fuel Gas Choice: Acetylene vs Propane
Acetylene produces the hottest flame of any commercially available fuel gas, reaching about 3480 degrees Celsius. That makes it the preferred choice for cutting thick steel quickly. Propane runs cooler but is cheaper and easier to source. Some kits like the Hobart 770502 accept propane tips, giving you the best of both worlds. For pure metal salvage, oxy-acetylene is still the gold standard.
Regulator Types and Connectors
Look for single-stage or dual-stage regulators with reverse flow check valves. The CGA-540 connector is standard for oxygen in the US, and CGA-510 is common for acetylene. Check the connector sizes match your tanks before buying. Reverse flow check valves protect your regulators from flashback damage, which is a real safety and durability concern.
Safety Equipment You Need Beyond the Kit
Every kit on this list includes goggles, but you should also invest in a proper welding helmet with autodarkening lens, leather gloves, flame-resistant clothing, and a fire extinguisher. For metal salvage work specifically, a respirator is worth considering because of surface coatings and rust on old steel. The cutting torch itself is just one part of a safe operation.
Portability and Carrying Case
If you are moving between job sites, weight and case quality matter. The Victor G150 and XtremepowerUS kits come with molded carrying cases that protect the kit during transport. The Hobart, RX WELD, and Victor G250 kits do not include cases, which is a small extra cost to factor in. For serious field work, a dedicated case is well worth the investment.
For readers weighing torch cutting against plasma cutting, our guide to the best plasma cutter for thick steel covers the alternative when you have access to power and need cleaner cuts on thinner steel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best torch to cut metal?
The best torch for cutting metal is an oxy-acetylene cutting torch kit for portable, off-grid work, or a plasma cutter for clean cuts where you have access to power. For metal salvage, an oxy-acetylene kit like the Victor G150 or RX WELD Heavy Duty is the top choice because it cuts thick steel anywhere.
How thick of metal will a cutting torch cut?
A medium-duty cutting torch kit will cleanly cut up to 1/2 inch steel with the included tip, and up to 5 inches with optional tips. A heavy-duty V-style outfit can cut up to 8 inches of steel with the right cutting tip. For most metal salvage applications under 1 inch steel, a medium-duty kit is sufficient.
Can you torch cut hardened steel?
You can torch cut hardened steel, but the process is slower and produces more slag than cutting mild steel. Oxy-acetylene torches can handle hardened steel up to about 1/2 inch thickness, although the cut quality is rougher. For thicker hardened steel, plasma or waterjet cutting is more efficient.
Which torch is used for cutting and welding metals?
An oxy-acetylene torch kit is the standard tool for both cutting and welding metal using a single setup. The torch handle accepts both cutting tips and welding tips, allowing you to switch between cutting steel and welding or brazing without changing equipment. The Victor G150, Hobart 770502, and RX WELD kits all support both processes.
What fuel gas is best for metal salvage cutting?
Acetylene is the best fuel gas for metal salvage because it produces the highest flame temperature of any commercial fuel gas, allowing you to cut thick steel quickly. Propane is a cheaper alternative for thinner steel and heating work, but it cannot match acetylene for cutting steel over 1/2 inch thick.
Final Verdict
After testing and comparing these eight cutting torch kits for metal salvage, three stand out. The Victor G150 is my top pick for portable field work thanks to its molded case and reliable performance. The Hobart 770502 is the best value pick with serious safety features and fuel flexibility. The RX WELD Heavy Duty kit is the right choice for serious operators who need to cut 1 inch steel and thicker on a daily basis.
Your final choice depends on how much steel you cut and how often you do it. Hobbyists and weekend salvage warriors will be happy with the XtremepowerUS or Stark USA kits. Mobile welders and fabricators should look at the Victor G250 or ARCCAPTAIN for solid medium to heavy duty performance. Whatever cutting torch kit you choose, invest in proper safety gear and a fire extinguisher before you strike that first arc.
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