[TheForge] Need recommendation for a welding/cutting torch

[LLesniak at aol.com]

I hope you don't mind a question from a beginner.  Right now I've got  my 
basic forging equipment but I need to get a torch to allow me to weld,  cut, 
braze, solder, and spot heat.   I've found lots of vendors for  Smith and Victor 
equipment and remember the Henrob torch being discussed on the  list but can't 
seem to find it in the archives.  Could you give me any  recommendations on 
vendors and what to look for when buying this type of  equipment?  I also need 
some training so I checked  my local community college and vo-tech school but 
they aren't offering  any welding or metalworking classes at this time.  Since 
I can't find a  class are there any books or online sources you could 
recommend to get me  started learning more about tools and techniques?
 
Thanks in advance for your advice and input.

Larry