[ecir38]

I use .031"

[analog97]

I used the Kester .05 and it was a mistake.  It's too big, making it more difficult.  I was able to build many Hag kits with this, but for a small board, e.g. Bugle or Piccolo I wish I'd had thinner solder.  I would advise any Newbie to use thinner solder.

[EchoWars]

.031" is a good compromise. Been using it for years.

[ratso]

so i am learning to solder and i will go with kester 44, .031 guage. this website http://www.wassco.com/b44rosfluxso.html
lists a couple: sn60, sn63, sn62 and sb5 are all kester 44, .031 guage. what's the difference? what does anyone recommend? thanx
from a noob!

[xlrider]

I looked at Kester's catalog online (PDF), they only list two basic materials for Kester 44, SN63Pb37 SN60Pb40  SN = Tin  Pb = Lead.
That would account for part of the product numbers, I would think that all other part numbers would account for the package size.

Does this help?

Hey, give Kester a call and ask them what would they use..... ...
or... what their part numbers mean.

1 (800) 2-Kester (1(800) 253-7837)

[xlrider]

PS...
I took my own advice and called Kester. I talked to Dave Shiner technical Rep for Kester. He recommeded using SN63Pb37 in .031 as probably the best for that type of soldering. But, he  said use whatever diameter you are comfortable with.....

xlrider

[ratso]

now see, that XL is going above and beyond...


thanx

[jcg0322]

I have several tubes of kester solder. All it says is "pocket pak rosin core solder". How can you tell if it is "kester 44" or not? There are no other numbers on the tube.
Thanks.