pencil torch for heat anodizing

[spyken]

lately, I've been finding that plain titanium handles aren't as nice as those which have a understated heat anodized finish. I remember seeing a tom mayo TNT pic on these forums which totally blew my mine. I understand that you can do that type of heat anodizing by using a butane torch.

can anyone point me in the right direction to get a butane pencil torch? leevalley has them at only $6.50 (I'm prepared to pay this price) but won't ship internationally for this item (only ground shipping). anyone know where I can get them for cheap and fast? what are good brands, models etc?

also, anyone have good instructions on how to properly heat anodized the titanium?

thanks,

 

[spyken]

anyone? or can someone maybe move this to the bladesmith/knifemaker forum?

 

[KennyC]

try your local radioshack, or hardware store for a butane torch. but..i would recommend getting a propane torch instead. it burns hotter so you can hold it farther away from your workpiece where the flame will cover more area and the color will be more even. also practice on some scrap iueces first, just to get an idea of how titanium acts when exposed to heat. and of course, pictures of your final project.....good luck