It helps to start low. 2.9-3.0v. And gradually climb up the ladder. Especially with the thinner wire. Popping high Vs through can pop those wires. Try taking a lighter to the wire and glowing it on a quick pass. Annealing the wire helps there too.
Yup sure does. I use a torch on the wire back and forth once and make sure it glows orange. Don't go to slow, just a nice steady pace.



