The CK Worldwide SGL-KITM is a stubby gas lens accessory kit for CK 3-series TIG torches (the 17, 18 and 26 series). It bundles alumina cups, collets, collet bodies, back caps, a heat shield and a few thoriated tungsten electrodes so you can set up or refresh a torch in one purchase. It is worth considering if you run one of those torch styles and want better access in tight joints, but skip it if your torch is a different series. The CK SGL-KITM stubby gas lens kit fits 17, 18 and 26 series TIG torches.
CK SGL-KITM kit contents at a glance
| Part | What is included (per retailer product pages) |
|---|---|
| Alumina cups | Three, sizes #6, #7 and #8 |
| Collets | Three: 1/16, 3/32 and 1/8 in |
| Collet bodies | Three: 1/16, 3/32 and 1/8 in (gas lens style for stubby cups) |
| Back caps | Long, medium and short |
| Heat shield | One |
| Tungsten | Thoriated tungsten in 1/16, 3/32 and 1/8 in |
| Torch fit | CK 3-series torches: 17, 18 and 26 styles |
Contents and sizing can change between listing versions, so confirm the current list on the Amazon page before ordering.
What a stubby gas lens kit does
A gas lens replaces the standard collet body with a screen that smooths the argon flow. A smoother flow lets you extend the tungsten further out of the cup for better visibility and access, and it often gives better shielding on corners and awkward joints. Stubby kits pair that with shorter parts so the torch fits tight spaces.
This kit suits:
- Welders who work in tight corners or inside fixtures where a long torch will not reach.
- Owners of a CK-style torch who want a full set of consumables in all three common tungsten sizes.
- Learners who want to try a gas lens without buying every part individually.
How to check it fits your torch
- Torch series: Check the torch body for a series stamp or manual. The kit is made for 17, 18 and 26 style torches; a different series uses different threads.
- Brand and thread: Many third-party torches follow the same pattern, but confirm by comparing the collet body thread and back cap to your parts.
- Electrode sizes: Make sure the kit sizes (1/16, 3/32, 1/8) cover the tungsten you use for your amperage.
- Cup choice: A larger cup number means a wider gas shield. #6 to #8 are mid-to-large stubby cups. Match the cup to your joint and gas flow.
- Heat shield: The heat shield helps protect rubber or plastic parts of the torch at higher current. It should be installed per the maker’s instructions.
Pros and limitations
Pros
- Complete starter set: cups, collets, bodies, caps and tungsten in one purchase.
- Gas lens style helps with access and gas flow.
- Three tungsten sizes cover common thin to medium work.
Limitations
- Only suits the torch series the kit is made for.
- Thoriated tungsten is mildly radioactive during grinding. Many welders prefer lanthanated, ceriated or rare-earth tungsten and may replace the included electrodes.
- Stubby parts shorten how far you can extend the tungsten, which can restrict some groove welds.
- Each tungsten size needs its own collet and body, so you will need to swap the whole set when you change electrode diameter.
Using the kit safely
- Assemble the body, collet and back cap finger tight and then snug, and do not over-torque.
- Grind thoriated tungsten with dust control (extraction and a suitable respirator). Wipe up dust rather than blowing it around.
- Grind tungsten so the grind marks run along its length, and do not extend it past the stick-out the maker recommends for your gas lens.
- Check for gas leaks with soapy water at the regulator and torch.
- Replace cracked ceramic or alumina cups. A damaged cup can disrupt the gas shield.
- Store parts in a dry organizer so threads stay clean.
Alternatives and related guides
- For a very wide gas lens, compare the jumbo-diameter 995795 gas lens review.
- For cup options, see the ceramic TIG welding cup review and the RIVERWELD TIG glass cups.
- For collets, read the RIVERWELD stubby collets review.
- To change tungsten type, see the blue 3/32 tungsten review.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which TIG torches does the CK SGL-KITM fit?
Retailer product pages list it for CK 3-series torches, the 17, 18 and 26 styles. Compare your torch body and parts against those series. A different series uses different threads, so a mismatch means the parts will not seat or seal properly.
What does a gas lens do compared with a standard collet body?
A gas lens has a diffuser screen that smooths the argon flow. That lets you extend the tungsten further and gives better shielding in corners and tight areas. It also uses a little more gas pressure to stay stable, so set flow carefully.
Is thoriated tungsten still a good choice?
Thoriated tungsten (red) works for DC welding, but it is mildly radioactive when ground. Many welders prefer ceriated, lanthanated or rare-earth tungsten. If you keep the included electrodes, grind with dust extraction and clean up carefully.
Can I weld aluminum with this kit?
The torch parts do not limit the metal, but aluminum needs an AC-capable TIG machine, argon and suitable filler. Thoriated tungsten is not the usual choice for AC, so check which tungsten suits your machine settings.
Verdict
The CK SGL-KITM is a convenient all-in-one stubby gas lens kit if you run a 17, 18 or 26 style torch. Confirm your torch series, then use the parts with sensible tungsten handling.
