James River Branch: Tools and Supplies

Tools: Temperature-Controlled Soldering Iron

If you're building a layout, chances are pretty good you'll need to do some soldering, even if it's just some wires. Now, if that's all you're ever going to do, you might be able to get by with an "ordinary" soldering iron; but if you're going to do any more—even as an outside chance—you really should get a temperature-controlled soldering iron. If you've ever used both types, I can almost guarantee you'll never use a non-temperature-controlled iron ever again. There is simply no comparison; the temperature control can turn a chore into a pleasure.

Here's why: soldering is best accomplished when the iron tip is close to the melting point of solder. However, a non-temperature-controlled iron tip usually gets much, much hotter than is necessary. This extra heat causes the metals being soldered to oxidize very quickly, and oxides prevent solder from bonding with the metal. Ordinary irons are the reason a great many modelers either hate or fear soldering.

Bear in mind that there are two varieties of temperature-controlled iron: fixed-temperature, and adjustable temperature. While any kind of temperature control is a good thing, having it adjustable adds to the versatility of the tool and enhances your ability to do a wide range of soldering really well.

Now, temperature-controlled irons aren't cheap; a good adjustable model can cost over $100. However, ordinary irons often burn out due in large part to all of that excess heat, and you'd wind up buying a bunch of them anyway—and still doing lousy soldering. A good temperature-controlled iron can last a lifetime. Plus, they offer the convenience of changing tips to best suit the work being done.

Soldering is a subject worthy of a lengthy clinic all its own (here are just a few tips to get you started), so I'll leave that for another time. Also, there are many makes and models of temperature-controlled irons. Most of them will be quality tools, so the brand isn't hugely important; for the purposes of modeling, the simplest adjustable model will likely be more than adequate.

Just getting started? An adjustable temperature-controlled iron is best purchased from an online seller; I'd recommend doing a Google search and making queries on discussion boards for recommendations. FWIW, the unit I chose is from XYtronic, although the specific model has been discontinued. I have several different tips, and I've done work with this tool I'd never thought possible for myself, as I'm not the greatest at soldering—although I'm improving, thanks in large part to the iron. It's one of my most valued tools.