Weldfabulous Blog

What’s the difference between a CK standard TIG torch and a CK MasterTIG torch? The short answer is, “It depends on the torch.” For the long answer, read on.

CK’s standard line of TIG torches are quality versions of the everyday torch you’re used to whether it be a 9, 18, 26 or any other style in between. CK’s MasterTIG series of torches are the highest quality TIG torches available and have many special features such as being smaller, lighter and more compact than their standard cousins.

Among the benefits of being smaller, lighter and more compact are reducing operator fatigue and carpal tunnel syndrome, and while these are very important aspects of MasterTIG designs, there are other MasterTIG torch features that are truly cutting edge and guaranteed to make the most difficult welding jobs much easier.

Let’s compare some CK standard and MasterTIG torches.

GAS COOLED Standard 125-150 amps CK9, CK17 & CK100 vs. MasterTIG 130-150 amps FL130 & FL150 FlexLoc

WATER COOLED Standard 250 amps CK20 vs MasterTIG 230-250 amps FL230 & FL250 FlexLoc

These standard air and water torches include rigid and flex heads, valve and no valve styles. The MasterTIG torches in this amp range also come in valve and no valve versions and feature the innovative FlexLoc head. 

The FlexLoc is a 360-degree variable angle torch head that locks in any position. It’s also interchangeable allowing for different configurations and head sizes.

The FlexLoc is perfect for all tough-to-weld applications like when you need to get behind something or weld in tight, hard-to-reach areas. It’s also excellent for walking the cup because once set at the preferred angle the head is rigidly locked into position.

GAS COOLED Standard CK150 vs. MasterTIG CKC150

The standard versions of these 150 amp torches come in rigid and flex heads and valve and no valve styles. The MasterTIG CKC150 has a rigid head and is specially designed to hold up in tough industrial construction uses. 

It has a stainless steel head insert for durable threads. And a heavy-walled tube is used in the neck to reduce bending or breaking. Finally, the valve version of the MasterTIG CKC150 is a twist style incorporated into the body so no more lost or damaged gas valve knobs!

GAS COOLED Standard 200 amps CK26, CK210 vs. MasterTIG 200 amps TL26, TL210

WATER COOLED Standard 350 amps CK18, CK300 vs. MasterTIG 350 amps TL18, TL300

Trim-Line torches give you all the amperage of the standard version with less weight and smaller size for better maneuverability and comfort. As an example, using the Trim-Line 26 feels more like a 9.

The gas standard CK26 and CK210 measure 9-1/2” (24.1 cm) and weigh 7-1/2 ounces (212 grams) while the Trim-Line 26 and 210 torches measure 8-1/8” (20.6 cm) and weigh 5 ounces (141 grams).

The water standard CK18 and CK300 measure 9-1/2” (24.1 cm) and weigh 6-1/2 ounces (184 grams) while the Trim-Line 18 and 300 torches measure 8” (20.3 cm) and weigh 5 ounces (141 grams).

Super flex cables compliment the Trim-Line torches due to their smaller size, flexibility and versatility compared to standard power cables. Consider Trim-Line where size, weight and duty cycle are important.