I need a new soldering iron. What should I buy?

[crritter996]

I want to buy a new soldering iron and would like some input. I have a cheap RS iron that only kind of does the job. I would like something that will last a bit longer and be better suited to more than occasional use. I would prefer to not spend a fortune around $50.00 or so. PLEASE HELP !!!!!

 

[twohandedcreations]

you can get a decent weller for around that price but if i was you I'd spend around $100 and get a hako... thats what I use at work daily and I love it (for a cheapy)... the really good ones can cost considerably more then $100

 

[jimbalny]

I got my hakko fx-888 for around $86 on amazon, you can also get a nice variety of tips. I'm a fan of the chisel type. Anything with temperature regulation is the way to go. Turn it on and its ready to go in seconds, the iron's light and small - really easy to control.

 

[Str8V8ping]

I was also gonna say the Hakko fx888 for sub 100 units. Hakko makes pretty good products and tempeture is about a stable as you can get for that price range. Much better then weller stuff imo.

 

[BJ43]

Weller WLC100 40 Watt Soldering Station Pencil Iron Cushioned Grip Sponge New | eBay
If you do not want to spend that much, I bought one of these and am very happy with it.