Tool Review

Temptrol 100

All tools reviewed are owned and have been used or are currently being used or tested by The Oak Tree Stained Glass Studio. No payments are exchanged for tool reviews by Inland

In the world of soldering irons, one could get lost in a product line. There are so many to choose from on today’s market, that you should do a little research prior to your purchase. This time will be well spent and what a better place than online. Just visit about 4 to 5 of the top sites and make a small chart with the listed qualities your are looking for. You may be surprised what you discover. First let’s talk about the basics of soldering, the iron needs to get hot while delivering a steady heat and at the same time won’t cause the craftsman or craftswomen to become fatigued. Not much to ask for right! Along with the previously mentioned qualities, we will need to determine a few other requirements.

v Is the iron to be used for Production or Hobby use?

v Will you be soldering mostly lead or copper foil?

v Does weight pose a problem (Heavy Iron - Lighter Iron?)

v Do you work with a temperature control unit?

Ease of use	10
Functionality	10
Durability	10
Cost	Affordable (10)
Overall Score	10

My Review

I chose the Temptrol 100 by Inland, as this month's pick. This is a middle of the road iron, one that can be used for the hobbyist or the light duty production work in a commercial studio. 

Ease of Use: The Temptrol 100 is light in weight and designed to operate quite easily with one hand. Men and women alike will take to this iron and it may be the only one you will ever want to use.

Functionality: The Temptrol 100 does not require the use of an external temperature control devise, as there is one built into the handle. Expertly designed and with a little practice you can use your thumb to adjust the heat while you are soldering. This iron will accept a variety of tips from small ones used for light decorative work to the larger chisel tips for a heavier production environment. 

Durability: The Temptrol 100 is very durable with a slight exception of the plastic skin, which may thin out over a few years. I currently own and use two in shop, and I am happy to say they have been in operation for about five + years and are an asset to my tool arsenal. 

Cost: During my years in the trade, I have found many irons that range in price from $10.00 up to $200.00 and more. You will need to determine your spending limit. As for the Temptrol 100 and its cost, if you are looking to spend around $50.00 you in luck (06-1-00) for the money you cannot beat this one. Yes, there are better irons out there and there are allot worse as well. Inlands got a winner with this one, and judging from the retail sales and general public opinion the Temptrol 100 is a top seller. 

Rob Torres