Can you recommend a good soldering iron

[Michael Miramontes]

I'm looking to get a decent soldering iron that will last me quite some time. 

 

With so many choices on the net it is hard to determine which is a good brand and which is a knock-off. I'd like to stay under $100 so if you know of one that is rock solid for around this price then please advise.

 

 

Thanks

[Eric Toline]

The Weller WLC 100 has served me faithfully for almost 20 years. About $45 at Markertek.com

and many other places on line. Do a Google search for it.

Eric

[Wyatt Tuzo]

Weller wesd51, if you want/need temp control. Mine gets up to temperature in about 20 seconds

[Max Hirtenstein]

just bought the wlc100 which Eric recommends, it's really good value for the money so far. if you have more cash I hear good things about Hakko from Japan, but i'd go for the weller.

[Doug Osborn]

You might consider the HAKKO 936.  It's been discontinued but has a loyal following.  Can't say enough good things about my 936.  You should be able to snag a new one for under $100.00.

 

 

 

[John Blankenship]

I've made thousands upon thousands of connections in everything from re-wiring a mixing console, to tons of cables, and even to tiny 3-pin Lemo plugs with a good old basic Weller SP-23 -- a 25 watt iron. You can find them on eBay for as low as $13.

Technique is the most critical element in soldering.

BTW: No issues whatsoever with the one Eric recommends. It's a similar iron but with an adjustable heat range (5-40w) and a decent stand included.

[Doug Osborn]

John is absolutely correct about technique.  

 

For me I've used a number of soldering irons over the years, but few have ever lasted all that long or they became prematurely obsolete because of lack of parts availability.  For me it all comes down to cost versus value. I don't mind paying more for a tool if it means that I can grow old with my equipment.  If I'm only going to use something once or twice, I pay as little as possible.  If I'm going to use something on a regular basis, my preference is for something that will last.  
 

[Whit Norris]

+ One

 

Whit

I've made thousands upon thousands of connections in everything from re-wiring a mixing console, to tons of cables, and even to tiny 3-pin Lemo plugs with a good old basic Weller SP-23 -- a 25 watt iron. You can find them on eBay for as low as $13.

Technique is the most critical element in soldering.

BTW: No issues whatsoever with the one Eric recommends. It's a similar iron but with an adjustable heat range (5-40w) and a decent stand included.

[Crussell]

I love, love, love my Hakko.

[Audio Daddyo]

I have a Radio Shack Digital Solder Station that I love.  It is actually a Madell AT201D Soldering Station with Radio Shacks name on it.  You can buy it directly from Madell for $67.  http://www.madelltech.com/m3-8.html  I think Radio Shack sells them for $90 although I got mine on sale for $60 something.  http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3132686

 

Andy

 

[ramallo]

<p>This is a super nice soldering iron under 100$ temperature controlled</p>

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<p>http://www.jbctools.com/sl2020-temperature-controlled-product-686.html</p>

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<p><img alt="" src="http://www.jbctools.com/productes/SL2020/img/tam_1/imagen_01.jpg" style="width: 930px; height: 400px; " /></p>

[soundtrane]

Depending on whether you are going to use your soldering system to do PCB level stuff, SMD etc., OKI/METCAL is top of the line. expensive but they use RF power and Curie Point to heat the tip, 2 seconds. 

 

For cable-build, any of the cheaper ones, HAKKO is very good. 

 

-vin

[Michael Miramontes]

Thank you so much for all the recommendations everyone!!!

[soundtrane]

btw, there is also GOOT which has a temp controlled iron, apart from more extensive stuff like solder stations. also very good.