When making a cut with a hand torch, it is important for the welder to be steady in order to make the cut as smooth as possible. A welder must also be comfortable and free to move the torch along the line to be cut. It is a good idea for a welder to get into position and practice the cutting movement a few times before lighting the torch. Even when the welder and the torch are braced properly, a tiny movement such as a heartbeat will cause a slight ripple in the cut. Attempting a cut without leaning on the work, to brace oneself, is tiring and causes inaccuracies.
The torch should be braced with the left hand if the welder is right-handed or with the right hand if the welder is left-handed. The torch may be moved by sliding it toward you over your supporting hand. The torch can also be pivoted on the supporting hand. If the pivoting method is used, care must be taken to prevent the cut from becoming a series of arcs.
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