Soldering iron tools and machines are used to melt and apply solder wire to join metal surfaces or objects. A professional soldering tool has a handle with a trigger that activates the heat. There are several differences between a soldering iron and a soldering gun.
The gun runs at higher heat levels and cools faster than the iron. Soldering guns are typically used on heavy-gauge wire and cable lugs. Soldering irons are lighter than guns, which makes them easier to handle. Small soldering irons are ideal for electronic and circuit board applications, while the larger irons produce more heat for heavy-duty, industrial-type jobs.