Dan,

"My point isn't related to the temperature of the iron, as the temperature required is a function of the melting point of the solder, but rather having enough wattage to maintain/achieve that temperature quickly when the material being soldered is simultaneously trying to leach away that heat."

OK. In that case we are talking about the same thing with regards to something like the Metcal which strongly regulates the wattage to hold temperature constant based on whatever tip you are using. There is obviously a huge difference between the Metcal with a 600 degree tip in it and a Weller 100w pencil iron.

", we're also talking a pretty significant cost multiplier over the Weller iron that George pointed out previously. "

Also very true. From time to time there are some good deals on complete used MX-500s on eBay. If one does a lot of soldering the tool is well worth the money. After using Weller stations for years I was amazed how much better the Metcal was when I bought it.

Shawn

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