need a decent solder iron, help!

[SFT]

Heading to radio shack, and need a solder iron. Hever owned one before. which one should I get? Just need it for simple wiring, pots, hardware, etc.

[Mike9]

I use the 40 watt one from RS and it works fine for me. If you get one that is not strong enough soldering ground wires to pots is a bear.

[jca345]

Best bang for your buck is a Weller WTCPT station. About $150 or so. Yes, this is a lot more than the RS models, but you can actually solder at the proper temperature, avoid ESD discharges if you are soldering static sensitive components, and literally have a plethora of tips/temperatures to choose from. It is a real tool. The RS Irons eventually wind up being throw away jobs IME. I have had mine for about 10 years without a hitch. That's $15/year for a great soldering station. I like it so much I bought a new one last year to build a second workstation.

[Dave Simpson]

Get a Weller WP25. That should be enough for simple jobs and it'll last you a lifetime.

[twinrider1]

PSA: No affiliation, but a quick google found the Weller WTCPT station for $109.
http://www.hmcelectronics.com/cgi-bin/scripts/product/1980-0217/?gclid=COCE3sS0n4wCFSM8gQodMALL2A

Wasn't even thinking about a soldering iron when I woke up today. Now I'll probably order one. This place is dangerous. :-)

[ClinchFX]

+1 on the Weller WTCPT. I have two of them.

Peter.

[twinrider1]

So having a variable temperature capability isn't really needed?

And I know I haven't bought solder in forever, but nearly $50 a pound now?!?!? Holy crap!!

[teleamp]

I vote for the Hakko (936 I think), I used Weller for years, but had some problems and switched to Hakko. The Hakko heats really fast and has a very useable temp selector. Another plus for the Hakko, is that it is cheaper than the Weller. Also, the Hakko has a metal stand for the Iron and cleaning sponge that is separate from the controller (the body on it is made of metal too).


Mike

[teleamp]

http://shop4.outpost.com/product/454489?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG

Mike