:: Does the "expiry date" on the tube make that much of a difference :: in hobbyist use? No, you may have to add more flux, making sure the flux is the type meant to go with that solder. If you are using reclaimed solder then it will contain contaminants, which on the whole also pose no problem for hobby or non essential professional use. definitely not to be used on life saving or safety devices though, joint failure is much more likely with old solder. -- cdb, colin@btech-online.co.uk on 7/08/2009 Web presence: www.btech-online.co.uk Hosted by: www.1and1.co.uk/?k_id=7988359 -- http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive View/change your membership options at http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist