I inherited a Hakko desoldering tool - kind of. Man, this thing is amazing! When I got it, it was broken and was going to be thrown away. I salvaged it - almost went dumpster diving for it, lol. Anyway a 5 dollar part was all it took to fix the damn thing.
HAKKO | Desoldering / Rework | HAKKO FR-300
It's a great tool for hobbyists and professionals alike.
Would I pay 300 bucks for one? Probably not, but damn, it is very nice. And the support from Hakko USA is second to none. Got my part within a few days of phoning them. They even followed up with an email and a phone call to make sure everything was in working order.
I was so impressed with Hakko's customer service and support, that I retired my weller soldering station and got me a Hakko FX 888D. On sale at RPElectronics for $129.00. Sadly, today was the last day of the sale. BTW, when I went to the Rupert Street location, I found out they had moved. They are now on Dawson Street Close to the Gilmore Skytrain Station
I simply love the quality and build of the Hakko products. The video below shows you the design and quality that goes into the soldering station I bought. Although the one I got is digitally controlled, it's basically the same unit. The analog one shown in the video is no longer available here in Canada. So sad, as I prefer the analog control over the digital version.
BTW, I have no idea why this fellow is bothered by the light turning on and off. It's like an oven light. On to show you it's heating up. Off when temperature is achieved. Oh well............. I won't even notice the light, 'cause it ain't there on the digital version, hee hee.
Also, this unit heats up so damn fast. Scratch your butt and it's done.