There are several types of soldering irons:

• Electric
  • trigger type
  • normal type
• Gas
  • adjustable
  • non adjustable
  • With mass

     The electric trigger type looks like a gun, with a trigger, and two prongs. When the trigger is pressed, electric current is applied to the prongs, which heat up. This type of soldering iron is useless for stained glass.

     If one has no choice but to use an electric soldering iron, then the normal type should be used. This is where the iron heats, and stays hot. The soldering iron should be at least 100 watts. The problem with this type is it starts very hot- too hot. This results in the melting the solder, and the lead! After using the iron for a while, the iron goes cold, and is time consuming to use. It also produces poor soldering. Getting a hotter electric iron only results in melting the lead, which is difficult to fix.

     Gas irons are far superior in that they can produce more heat than the iron needs.

Working with soldering irons one should make a holder from heavy metal

to be continued...