Hakko FX601-02
The most-recommended iron for copper-foil stained glass.
View on Amazon →The Best Soldering Iron for Stained Glass
Researched by Johnny Alto · Updated October 12, 2026
Research pick: Based on product documentation and owner discussions. How we research →
Short answer: Our top pick is the Hakko FX601-02. The most-recommended iron for copper-foil stained glass.
Top pickHakko FX601-02View offer →
Top pick
Hakko FX601-02
The most-recommended iron for copper-foil stained glass.
WattageTemperature controlTip
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Ask in almost any stained-glass group and the same answer comes back: you want a temperature-controlled iron in the 80 to 100W range with a ¼-inch tip for copper-foil work. Here's the one that comes up more than any other, plus the classic heavy-duty alternative.
Top picks at a glance
Weller 100W Iron
The long-time standard for large panels and long seams.
What should you look for in soldering iron for stained glass?
A few things separate a good soldering iron for stained glass from a frustrating one: wattage, temperature control, tip, and weight & balance. Weigh these before you buy.
- Wattage: 80 to 200W. Below about 80W it struggles to keep up on foil seams.
- Temperature control: an adjustable iron lets you dial heat to the solder and the job.
- Tip: a ¼-inch tip suits most copper-foil and lead-came work; smaller tips for decorative detail.
- Weight & balance: you'll hold it for hours, so lighter, well-balanced irons win.
What are the best alternatives?
Heavy-duty classic
Weller 100W Iron
The long-time standard for large panels and long seams. Its heavy tip holds heat beautifully on big work. The trade-off is that it's less nimble for tiny, detailed foil lines, and heavier over time.
Bottom line: for most hobbyists and pros doing foil work, the temperature-controlled Hakko is the safe default; step up to a 100W-class iron only if you're regularly soldering big panels.
Our top pickHakko FX601-02
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Frequently asked questions
What is the best soldering iron for stained glass?
Hakko FX601-02. The most-recommended iron for copper-foil stained glass.
What should you look for in soldering iron for stained glass?
Focus on wattage, temperature control, tip, and weight & balance.
What is a good alternative to the Hakko FX601-02?
The Weller 100W Iron. The long-time standard for large panels and long seams. Its heavy tip holds heat beautifully on big work. The trade-off is that it's less nimble for tiny, detailed foil lines, and heavier over time.
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This is a research-based buying guide, not a personal hands-on review. Product details, prices, and availability can change; confirm the current listing on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.
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