Dual-flame value torch for cooking and crafts
RAVS RBT018 Dual-Flame Butane Torch Review
The RAVS RBT018 is a refillable metal-bodied butane torch that switches between a concentrated blue jet and a broader soft flame. Piezo ignition, adjustable output, and a compact angled design make it useful for culinary finishing, resin work, jewelry, and occasional DIY, although it is not a substitute for a professional plumbing torch.
Quick verdict
Two flame shapes add useful flexibility at a modest price
The RBT018 combines piezo ignition, adjustable output, and two selectable flame modes in a compact metal body. The narrow jet suits concentrated heating, while the softer flame spreads heat across a wider surface. That versatility is useful around the kitchen and craft bench, but its small refillable tank and consumer-grade format limit extended professional work.
Best for
- Crème brûlée, sous-vide finishing, peppers, and melting cheese
- Resin bubbles, jewelry, crafts, heat shrink, and occasional DIY
- Users who value selectable narrow and broad flame modes
Not ideal for
- Daily professional or high-volume production use
- Large plumbing, brazing, or sustained high-output heating
- Buyers wanting a visible fuel gauge or documented service parts
Key Specifications
Fuel
Refillable butane; fuel sold separately
Fuel capacity
Approximately 8–11 g per manufacturer filling guidance
Runtime
Not consistently published; depends on flame mode and setting
Flame temperature
Listed up to 2,372°F / 1,300°C
Flame controls
Adjustable output with two selectable flame modes
Published size
Approximately 3.8 × 1.8 × 5.7 in
Ignition
Piezo push-button ignition
Specifications are drawn from RAVS’s current RBT018 product page and the current listing for ASIN B0B5RKWNMS. The maximum flame temperature and fill quantity are published claims, not independent measurements. Color, packaging, and seller details may change.
What We Evaluated
This review examines RAVS’s current RBT018 product information, the current listing, its dual-flame control, metal construction, ignition, filling guidance, advertised applications, and fit among inexpensive refillable torches.
How this review was prepared: This update uses RAVS’s current RBT018 product page, current retailer information, the site’s existing review, and publicly available owner-feedback themes. It separates published claims from editorial assessment and does not claim independent laboratory or long-term hands-on testing.
Design, Controls, and Everyday Use
The RBT018 uses a compact metal body, ergonomic handle, fixed angled burner head, piezo ignition, flame-size adjustment, and a separate selector for its two flame shapes. The angled head keeps the user’s hand behind and below the flame while preserving a clear view of the work area.
Piezo ignition makes startup straightforward without a separate lighter. The controls still require deliberate setup: select the flame mode, begin at a low gas setting, ignite away from people and combustibles, and increase output only as needed.
The reviewed configuration is the black/red RBT018 associated with ASIN B0B5RKWNMS. RAVS sells several similarly named torches in other colors and capacities, so match the model and image rather than purchasing by brand name alone.
Flame Performance and Applications
RAVS advertises a maximum flame temperature of approximately 2,372°F (1,300°C). The RBT018’s meaningful distinction is not that headline number but its ability to switch between a focused blue jet and a broader soft flame. Distance, setting, movement, material, and ambient conditions determine the heat delivered to the workpiece.
Culinary finishing
Use the concentrated blue flame for fast browning and localized heat, then switch to the softer flame when a wider, gentler heating pattern is more useful. For crème brûlée, meringue, peppers, cheese, and sous-vide finishing, start low and keep the torch moving to prevent scorching.
Crafts, resin, and light DIY
The concentrated mode can remove surface bubbles from suitable resin, shrink tubing, heat small jewelry work, loosen some adhesives, and handle other occasional projects. Keep both flame modes away from combustible finishes, pressurized containers, batteries, and heat-sensitive components.
Soldering and workshop limits
Although RAVS markets the RBT018 for small soldering and welding applications, it has no contact tip or regulated temperature. A proper soldering iron is better for electronics, while propane or MAP-Pro is more appropriate for large plumbing, brazing, and sustained broad heating.
Dual-Flame Control and Filling
A mode selector changes the burner between a concentrated jet and a softer, broader flame. Shut the torch down before changing modes, then reignite at a low setting and verify the flame is stable before continuing.
RAVS describes a typical full refill as taking about 15 seconds and approximately 8–11 grams of butane. Treat those numbers as guidance, not a target to force into the tank. Stop when filling behaves as described by the instructions and never overfill.
Butane is not included. Verify valve and nozzle compatibility, fill outdoors or in a well-ventilated area away from ignition sources, and allow the fuel to stabilize before lighting.
Fuel, Runtime, and Maintenance
RAVS does not provide a consistent runtime figure for the reviewed RBT018 configuration. Runtime changes substantially with flame mode, output setting, fill level, fuel pressure, ambient temperature, and duty cycle. The broader flame will generally consume fuel faster than a modest jet setting.
Use compatible quality butane and follow the RAVS instructions for valve alignment, filling, settling, and leak checks. Our guide to choosing butane fuel explains compatibility and purity claims, while the refill guide covers the general safety sequence.
Keep the nozzle and air openings clean, store the torch away from heat, and let it cool before refilling. Stop using it if the tank, valve, ignition, or seals are damaged or leaking; see the troubleshooting guide for safe preliminary checks.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Selectable concentrated and soft flame modes
- Piezo ignition requires no separate lighter
- Adjustable flame output
- Metal body and ergonomic handle
- Compact angled burner improves sightlines
- Useful for cooking, resin, jewelry, crafts, and occasional DIY
- One-year support stated by RAVS
Cons
- No visible fuel gauge documented for this configuration
- No contact soldering or hot-air attachments
- Runtime is not consistently published
- Similar RAVS models can be easy to confuse
- Butane is sold separately
- Not intended for large plumbing or continuous professional work
Owner Feedback and Reliability
The existing Butane Torch Shop article and current RBT018 listings emphasize flame choice, easy ignition, adjustable output, metal construction, and value. Public owner feedback frequently appreciates the two flame shapes and substantial feel, while the most consequential complaints for inexpensive refillable torches concern ignition consistency, filling technique, and durability. These themes are context rather than controlled testing.
Inspect the ignition, mode selector, gas adjustment, tank, valve, and shutoff during the return period. Stop using any refillable torch that leaks, will not shut off, produces an unstable flame after correct filling, or shows heat damage.
How It Compares
| Decision | RAVS RBT018 | Sondiko S907 | Blazer GT8000 Big Shot |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best fit | Cooking and crafts needing two flame shapes | Value use with a visible fuel gauge | Frequent multipurpose use |
| Core advantage | Selectable jet and soft flame | Fuel visibility and simple controls | Substantial construction and broader versatility |
| Main tradeoff | No documented gauge or consistent runtime | Less serviceable, variable listing details | Higher price and larger size |
Choose the RBT018 when two flame shapes and metal construction matter more than fuel visibility. Choose the Sondiko S907 for a visible fuel gauge or the Blazer GT8000 Big Shot for more substantial multipurpose use. Browse the torch reviews hub for the broader comparison.
Is the RAVS RBT018 Worth It?
Yes—for home cooks, resin artists, jewelry makers, crafters, and occasional DIY users who will benefit from switching between a concentrated jet and a softer flame. The metal body and approachable price strengthen its value.
Skip it if you require a visible fuel gauge, contact soldering, documented long runtime, or professional parts support. The RBT018 earns its place through dual-flame versatility rather than industrial durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the RAVS RBT018 run?
RAVS does not publish a consistent runtime for the reviewed configuration. Flame mode, output, fill level, pressure, temperature, and duty cycle all affect operating time.
How hot does the RAVS RBT018 get?
RAVS advertises a maximum flame temperature of approximately 2,372°F (1,300°C). Treat that as a published maximum flame claim, not a measured workpiece temperature.
What are the RBT018’s two flame modes?
A selector switches between a narrow concentrated blue jet and a broader soft flame. Shut the torch off before changing modes and restart at a low setting.
Can the RAVS RBT018 solder electronics?
It can provide direct flame heat for some larger joints, but it has no contact tip or temperature regulation. Use a grounded temperature-controlled soldering station for delicate or static-sensitive electronics.
What fuel does the RAVS RBT018 use?
It uses refillable butane sold separately. Verify nozzle compatibility, follow the included instructions, and review our butane fuel guide before filling.
How can I identify the reviewed RAVS model?
Look for model RBT018, the black/red dual-flame configuration, and ASIN B0B5RKWNMS. RAVS sells several similarly named torches, so confirm all three details.