Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Solder....again.....

[Kenworthy, Edward (EDS)]

I think the original question askers point is being missed. He's in the same
position I was a few months ago: is interested in a K2, is looking to
improve his soldering skills but hasn't yet decided to actually go ahead
with the K2 at all. And he's concerned that using an uncontrolled iron isn't
giving him very good results.

I thought I'd throw my 2p worth in.

The difference between using a t/c iron and an uncontrolled iron is like
night and day. Using an uncontrolled iron I could solder perhaps 1-3 joints
before having to wait for it to heat up again. It was slow, and if I started
to try and rush then I produced more joints that I at least had to go back
an re-check if not re-solder.

So I went and bought an inexpensive 40W t/c iron. What a difference! I can
keep soldering until my arm drops off, only pausing to clean the tip after
every 4 or 5 joints. Every joint is bright and shiny and, using a small bit
as recommended, I haven't gotten solder anywhere it shouldn't be.

So I would definately buy a t/c iron right away - it'll definately give you
the confidence to go for a K2.

I would add as my own tip - do not use a sponge to clean your iron's tip.
Firstly it's messy and I find actually a pain to get the tip clean and
second it cools the iron. Instead invest in a metal cleaner - basically a
little pot with what looks like a brass brillo pad in it. Stick tip in, pull
tip out - perfectly clean tip. Makes tinning the tip extra easy - metal a
blob of solder on the tip, stick it into the brillo pad, pull it out and
voila a perfectly tinned tip.

I'd never go back to an uncontrolled iron.

Edward