Is the Searzall worth the hype?

[ssandy_561]

Looking to add a searing torch to my cooking arsenal.

I see a lot of people using the Searzall on YouTube.

I also see it costs $75 on Amazon.

Does anyone swear by the Searzall or are there cheaper options out there that perform just as well?

Thanks

Steve

[mgaretz]

I just use a torch, but you have to get the right one. You want a Bernzomatic heat shrink torch.

[Henrik]

The chimney starter is cheaper and better, to be honest. But the Searzall is easier to move around and use indoors.

[texastweeter]

Not in my opinion. I only use torch to brule things.

[fzxdoc]

MBMorgan uses one. Every time he talks about using his SearzAll, I get the MCS itch.

Kathryn

[Attjack]

Me too but then it subsides and I think that I probably won't use it too often.

[Jerod Broussard]

Meathead likes the SearzAll.

[MBMorgan]

I really like mine. It’s best for just a couple of burgers or steaks ... but as a hand held salamander it does a great (if somewhat slow) job of searing without the nasty propane taste.

[Dr. Pepper]

Meh...

[mnavarre]

I borrowed one from a friend a couple of years ago and liked it well enough, but I haven't bought one. Kinda want one, but always seem to find something else to spend $75 on.

[Potkettleblack]

I was a backer on the initial development.

I used it a few times. It does transfer less butane flavor to the meat, but:
1- I am not possessed of the patience to properly sear a steak with that thing.
2- My cats got freaked out every time I used it.
3- My wife hated it.
4- Once I discovered the magic of shocking things cold and treating as raw for reheat, I found that, even when using techniques to center my attention, shocking and searing in either CI or on the grill produced a better sear than torching right after sous viding and surface drying.

So I sold it. It was a very poor fit for me.

[pkadare]

https://www.amazon.com/Best-Sellers-Garden-Outdoor-Weed-Torches/zgbs/lawn-garden/3480723011

[ssandy_561]

Can’t use that stuff. I get tested for work! Lol

Seriously do they give any foul propane taste?

[Potkettleblack]

The problem with using one, aside from the lack of diffusion, is that they tend to spit some unburned propane... not tasty. Also, unwieldy for steaks.

[pkadare]

Tongue in cheek response.

[Raijer]

I like mine, but I'd be the first to admit it's not an essential tool. I like that I can touch up my sear indoors, and maybe more importantly (or shallow depending) is that it has never failed to impress guests!

As for any hype... nah, not really.