Solder/Soldering iron advice. Please help.

[RyanElectro]

Hey guys,

I'm looking for a solder for our hobby in general, connecting leads, etc. Is there any specific solder I should be using (lead-free, acid core, etc.) or additional flux I need for this job?

As well, what kinds of soldering iron you do guys recommend (in terms of power, size)?

I just bought a silver bearing, acid-core solder. Is this safe for our hobby? Do I need additional flux?

Please enlighten me.

Thanks so much,
Ryan

 

[Wolfman29]

I just use rosin-core 60/40 solder and a 40W pencil soldering iron. Works for me. I also have a little tub of flux that is decent. Really, as long as you are quick and safe, most solder and flux should be fine.

 

[RyanElectro]

Do I even need flux? The solder itself should have enough flux in its core right?

 

[Sigurthr]

Flux is really only necessary for soldering LD pins, oxidized parts, or very small things that are heat sensitive. The rest you can get away with a good rosin core solder. DO NOT try to solder a LD without flux though, there's no way you'll get the joint soldered in the 1.5sec maximum you have. Oh and avoid acidic/plumbing fluxes, the're a no no.

 

[Wolfman29]

Yeah, too much flux is never a bad thing.