The Weller 40 watt with a 3/16" tip and a mini butane torch can be a good starter kit for under $100. You can file and retin the tip.

1/32 scratchbuilding basics
#26
Posted 21 May 2017 - 03:18 PM
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Larry D. Kelley, MA
retired raceway owner... (for now)
race directing around Chicago-land
Diode/Omni repair specialist
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60+ year pin Racing rail/slot cars in America
#27
Posted 22 May 2017 - 05:59 PM
This is the ONE tool you should not scrimp on!!! The builder is only as good as his tools!! I'd go the Hakko and solve many future problems!!
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#28
Posted 24 May 2017 - 09:29 AM
In addition to the rating of the iron (watts) pay attention to the size of the tip. Unless you are using a soldering gun, the heating coil of a conventional iron cannot replace the heat loss during active soldering as fast as the action drains heat - the larger the tip, the larger the heat reservoir and thus, less cooling during the operation - conclusion: use the largest tip that will comfortably fit the work-piece.
Over the years I have collected a wide range of soldering tools. My most used are a 75 W Hakko, a commercial resistance soldering rig and a little cordless iron for electrical connections.
EM
#29
Posted 24 May 2017 - 09:49 AM
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#30
Posted 24 May 2017 - 10:05 AM
With any iron you get one of if not the most important thing to know or learn is how to clean and care for the iron tip.
#31
Posted 24 May 2017 - 10:06 AM
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#32
Posted 24 May 2017 - 12:08 PM
Ask ten different people, get ten different answers.
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"I'm not short, I'm just down to earth."