I'm Thinking of Buying a Reconditioned Oxy Con -Thoughts/Advice Needed

[Barnacle Bay]

Hi folks,

I am seriously contemplating on buying a Reconditioned Oxy Con unit and really need some advice or  any thoughts anyone has on them.

My initial reason for getting one is that I have recently switched to bulk propane and have really noticed that it is a lot slower than the Mapp gas and I feel alot harder to use due lack of heat.

Obviously I will have to buy a dual torch too - & another question would be 'which one?'

I have seen a recon Oxy Con, but I was also wondering how many hours use they can do B4 having to have a service?

Any thoughts, Pro's & Cons & advice very much welcomed.  Please IM me if you would like to remain private.

Oh and if anyone has one going at a bargain price let me know  

Thanks in advance,

Louise

[Blue Box Studio]

I got my recon oxycon from Tuffnell glass and so far it's done a year without sulking (famous last words, the way my week is going ).  Personally I'd buy from a reputable company, but then I'm not a risk-taker.  I think they are reasonably easy to keep working and if all else fails you can get Martin to service it for you; for a price.

As for a torch, I use a Nortel Minor with one oxy.  Before making my decision I had a read, made a shrotlist and then asked people if I could pop over and borrow their to try out (thank you Madeline).  Flame Off is the obvious place to try them all out, but the next one is a way off (2013). 

I started on a hothead with bulk gas, so glad I made the move to dual fuel, so much faster than a HH.  Never tried Mapp gas, couldn't find locally.

[Calico Cat]

I know I am tempting fate but my first OxyCon has been chugging away now for just over 3 years, the second one for about 14 months but they are in the house at the moment so don't get too cold/damp.

I have two as I run a GTT Lynx and one just doesn't hack it - does mean they both run at just over 3 most of the time so aren't stressed too much.

As far as torches go, the Nortel Minor is a good reliable choice but you might also consider a GTT Cricket or Bobcat.

Would suggest browsing  website or speaking to Martin or Emma.

[kerensky]

All of the Oxycons I own are from Martin at Tuffnell Glass.

The first one I bought in 2005, it has never been serviced and it is still purrring away like a kitten.

As suggested - I would call them up and ask what sort of oxy torch deal they have running at the mo.

Good luck - you will never look back ;-)

[Lakelady]

I have two from Martin - don't know anyone who has bought new at those prices!   

I have a Mega minor torch as I dabble in Boro too and love it 

[Pauline]

another vote for Martins oxycons and a mega minor

[sarah t]

buying from sean or martin makes sence when you try to get spares or need someone who has the knowledge to fix it should it go wrong

[Shirley]

Another vote for Tuffnell's. By the way, I think the Off Mandrel ones come from Martin anyway.

[Les]

My Tuffnell oxycon is only now beginning to play up a bit ... I've had it for nearly 8 years and treated it pretty badly ... pretty good in my opinion

[noora]

I have an ancient oxycon that probably hasn't even been reconditioned and it's still huffin' and puffin' after several years of lampworking. I have a Nortel Minor torch.

[Barnacle Bay]

Great replies 

I will now save up a few more pennies and buy one in the very near future.

Though it is my birthday soon so I will start hinting to my hubby...umm though will need the torch too, best I have two birthdays

Thanks all,

Louise