I've seen furnaces in use before, but this is my first time using one. I was completely satisfied with the experience. Really good results without much effort.I'd rate the quality of the furnace as good C even has a ceramic heat shield around where the torch flame enters the furnace to help protect the joint and surrounding housing from turning red-hot. I don't think all furnaces like this come with that added protection.Took only a few minutes to set up. There is a simple process for preparing the crucible for first use (instructions included), but after that it's pretty straightforward: crank up the heat until your metal has melted.I opted for old copper pipe scraps on my first go-round and after about ten minutes in the furnace, it was all set to pour into the included ingot mold. (I did preheat the mold with a plumbing torch, though.)Long term, consumables are just propane and crucibles.