The torch is self-igniting, meaning it has an electric sparker built in. When the button is pressed halfway, the torch mixes a perfect combination of propane and air into the tube.

He pulled a self-igniting propane torch out of a bag, lit it and pointed the 2-foo-flame at a worker, authorities said. The clerk refused to give him money and yelled at the man, who fled.

Propane torches may be slightly beyond the usual range of homeowner tool collections, but I’m convinced they should be more mainstream. Every time I fire up my gas barbecue, I’m reminded of ...