Soldering/Brazing Equipment

[Sean Yaw]

Hi,
I have been making slipjoints and lockbacks for several months now and would like to pursue attaching pins to the back of my shields (as opposed to just gluing or drilling through) as well as attaching bolsters. It sounds like soldering or brazing may be a good way to approach both of these tasks. My question is: What equipment is recommended for accomplishing this. I have gathered that I need a torch instead of electrical iron due to the temperatures required. Does anyone have a recommendation for a good torch that will serve me well for a little while? I have also read about using all-in-one solder/flux for attaching pins such as this product:

Silver Paste Solder, 560 Extra-Easy - RioGrande

www.riogrande.com

Is that approach recommended, or something different? Are there any other tools/supplies I will need? I am sure a lot of this will come down to practice/experimentation, but I am trying to avoid buying something (e.g. torch) only to find out I got the wrong thing. Thank you for the advice.

 

[Bill DeShivs]

There are small butane torches that will do what you need. Rio may sell them.
An air-acetylene torch with a "B" tank and several tips is very handy to have. New, they are expensive. Pawn shops sell them cheap, and Rio also sells tips.
Riogrande also sells charcoal blocks and other heat-reflecting soldering pads that are a must have.

 

[john april]

i use an ordinary propane cylinder for plumbing for hard silver soldering. works fine.