Soldering Iron Recommendation?

Budget? CHEAP! :D I guess $50. I've been so out of the game I have no idea. I know 'pro' stations can be 10x that. I was hoping there was something with good value for occasional work. But when I -do- solder I want it to look pretty.

I don't need 2 second heat-up or instant cool-down or really precise thermo control. Just something that can do a range of work cleanly.

Suggestions? I just checked Mouser and there are so -many- to choose from. Kinda overwhelming.

---JC

Link555 wrote: Digikey.com is a good starting point, or Mouser.com

I use a OKI- which was Metcal before. Works great.

I also Like the Hako irons.

Both are great tools, I have a old weller too, but it can not regulate the tip heat as well as the OKI or Hako products.

Whats your price range, and do you do mostly through hole?

Hey thanks!

Do you have any experience with the Elenco? It almost looks too cheap to be good... OTOH, I've had lots of great audio gear that was cheap and worked well so...

The Weller would do the trick, for sure, but I wonder if the 40w will be a problem for finer work... My old one had a dial to set lower wattage. Do you think this is a drawback?

Again, thanks!

---JC

dvdhawk wrote: Here are a couple decent soldering stations under $55 - even a mid-grade Weller.

Link removed

http://www.mcmelectronics.com/product/WELLER-WLC100-/21-3475

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I got one of these for light duty work around the house because they were dirt cheap on sale and it didn't last much more than 6 months with light use:

http://www.mcmelectronics.com/product/TENMA-21-7945-/21-7945

It was ok while it lasted and might be fixable.

Thanks again. I dunno if I'm still all that 'experienced'. But I do know a good iron makes the job a -lot- easier. Not willing to pay $400 or whatever, though.

Unless someone here has some other ideas, I think I'll stick with the Weller since I know I can get replacement parts for it most anywhere.

Cheers!

---JC

dvdhawk wrote: The Weller is variable 5w - 40w.

Nope I don't have any personal experience with the Elenco. They specialize in kits and projects for beginners to learn electronics and soldering skills. So I assume they might be considered entry-level units by someone like yourself with experience. I'm sure there's a certain level of 'you get what you pay for' involved.

dvdhawk wrote: I see the same iron NIB on ebay for $49 delivered.

I just got one delivered from Amazon for $40. Haven't tried it yet, but it seems like the goods.

THANKS!

---JC