Did I buy the wrong soldering iron?

[Bees]

I meant to buy this soldering iron:

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a77/beelees/solderiron1.jpg

But I bought this one instead:

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a77/beelees/solderiron2.jpg

Both are 25w but the one I bought is for wood/leather work. Did I get the wrong one?

[EADGBE]

Probably. Can you return it?

[Bees]

Don't think so. I saw the first one on an local website, but bought the second one from a guy on eBay. I'll just cross my fingers that the tips are replaceable!

[RvChevron]

25W may not be hot enough to do clean and fast soldering on the back of the pots.

35W would make things much easier.

[HipKitty]

I suggest the Weller 40 watt.

[George Johnson]

+1 for the 40 watt.

[wavey63]

WHy not try to sell it on eBay and recoupe your dough? Then buy what you need. I Have used low wattage ones in the past with no trouble but it sure is easier with the 45.:dude

[Old Fuzzface]

If this is for more than occasional use I'd recommend a temperature controlled iron if the budget will stretch to it. You should also go for a suitable tip. Wedge shaped is probably OK for simple wiring jobs but a chamfered tip will be best for anything involving components, especially if you're desoldering and/or working on PCBs.

[walterw]

yeah, with 25 watt irons you risk "cooking" a guitar pot due to the whole thing getting hot before the solder you're trying to melt ever melts.

[GtrDr]

I use the Weller 40w