Iso-Tip cordless soldering iron

[BowtieGuy]

Hey guys, I know there are tons of soldering iron threads out there, but my question is about a specific one. It's the "Iso-Tip cordless soldering iron" Link.
There are 3 similar variations, the 7700,7800, & 7900 series. Also, many tip styles are available.

Yes, I realize that it's a cordless model, and that, in general they have been labeled as not very good - not hot enough, doesn't stay charged, etc.

I have had some limited experience with an older model, see pics below.
It seemed to work pretty well till it died, (15+ yrs. old).

According to their specs., the irons have:

• 900 deg. F. temp.
• 10 sec. warm-up time
• 100-125 joint soldering capacity per charge
• As low as 60 min. total charge time (dependent on mod.)

I guess I'd like to know if anyone has any experience with this brand; or what you think of them in general.
It would be for light duty use.

I've seen some reviews which seem pretty positive. Your input would be appreciated!

Thanks

 

[ARG]

I'm very happy with my butane iron, it does the job when I need to be wireless. Gets very hot and holds enough butane to last quite a while.

 

[BowtieGuy]

I hadn't thought of butane, what type do you own, is it one of those from Iso-Tip, or something else?

 

[ARG]

I forget the brand, sorry! I would check what brand it is, but I don't have access to it for the moment. I got it used from someone who bought it, but never used it.

 

[offroadfreak8582]

They have cheap butane versions on dx.com! They work pretty well!

Greetings,,

 

[pschlosser]

Ive used those butane ones, too, from DX. They work just fine.
When you're 150 feet of the ground, atop a radio tower on a mountain, I'm not too,picky.
All that matters is it gets hot and melts the solder.

But honestly, for a bench, there's little reason to go wireless, IMO.

But to each his own.

 

[NKO29]

Yeah, if you have no need for portability DO NOT use cordless soldering irons. From my experience a good wall powered iron beats any portable device in terms of best quality soldering if you're going to buy a soldering iron, don't buy a cheap and nasty one... They won't last as long and you won't get the same results as a good iron will!
-Josh

 

[BowtieGuy]

Hey guys, thanks for all the input. I agree, a good wall powered iron is best.
This would mostly be used where wireless would be easier.
I will also have to look into the butane powered models, hadn't considered them before.