Originally Posted by
KillYrTV
I bought a Weller soldering gun from Home Depot for $20, used it for about an hour, and the plastic next to the hot metal tubes melted, and the tip broke. Then I found all the bad online reviews about it. I returned it, got money back, and went to the flea market (Peddler's Mall). Found a similar Weller gun for $8.. the font style in the packaging indicates it's from the 70's. It comes with more accessories, as well as a built in illumination light. I changed the used tip, plugged it in, and it works. I don't think this one is going to melt the plastic housing, because back then they had enough sense to use a metal housing next to 700 degree heat. I also ran across every kind of tool under the sun while I was there.. next time I need a tool, I'm going there first.
I have two Weller soldering guns, both manufactured in the 1960s. My Grandfather passed away early last year. After my aunts and uncles decided on what they wanted from my Grandfathers estate the Grandchildren then chose what they wished to keep. Nobody wanted his tools, so I ended up with some very old vintage tools, some of which were hand made by my Grandfather, some that have been passed down through my family for 100s of years. Some are very old blacksmithing tools I use today. The old Weller soldering guns are really durable no nonsense pieces of equipment. Far better than what is being sold today.
All the tools I work with, in blacksmithing, jewelry making/art (Like raising cups, vases, shapes, etc with precious metals) are old, most older than myself. After purchased new tools, and having the opportunity to work with older tools and being able to fairly compare the differences, I feel older tools were not only made better, but designed and made to last lifetimes. These days I seek old tools and prefer them over new as I find them far superior to anything being manufactured in China. I have even more recently been exchanging work and knowledge with a blacksmith friend of mine, who wants to learn how to make Damascus Steel billets and have learned how to make tools in exchange. I feel strongly that the tools I am able to make myself are far better than what can be purchased on the market today. I don't see any reason to purchase new tools when I can easily obtain older tools that are in my opinion better.
Scott
Bookmarks