Anyone has their blow torch overmolding disintegrating?

I have a Benzomatic torch and after some years (I think 4 or 5) years I picked it up and the handle is sticking to my palm and finger. I rubbed it and black rubbery particles are coming off. I think the overmolding of the handle is disintegrating.





Is this because I am in hot humid Florida? I remember a tennis racket handle doing the same thing some years ago. But then this is a torch so it should be able to handle heat better?

Yes, it happens to all tools- cordless and hand- that have the rubber grips. Your hand oils break down the rubber components after hours of use. If I have paper towels and all-purpose cleaner handy and I think about it, I’ll wipe the grip down occasionally. I try to buy hand tools with lifetime warranty and I’ll usually return them for that reason. Haven’t yet figured out how to deal with the cordless grips. Annoying but the grip feel is nice.