Hi Ric
Been through the same dilemma !!
I really wanted a genuine weller or hakko but could
Not justify the expense, I ended up getting a Atten 936
(hakko knockoff). Probably had around ten hours use
With no dramas and very happy with it. I am using a genuine
Hakko tip though and I could see the quality diff in tips when
Compared side by side. Not sure if using the genuine tip has helped
With overall performance.
Think I paid around $70 for iron, and tip from local electronics
Shop was around $25. Hope this helps.
Cheers
Dave
