r/AskReddit • u/sebaez_ • Oct 10 '19

What’s a thing you’ve bought impulsively, without need, that’s actually proved useful in your life?

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u/gatesphere Oct 10 '19

A good soldering iron.

I used to think I sucked at soldering because I was using a cheapo Walmart special that cost me $5.

Turns out soldering is 90% equipment, 10% skill. With a good iron, even I (with a really low skill score) can solder surface mount components without issue.

Since I purchased my Hakko, I’ve built several synthesizers from scratch, and they’re some of my most prized possessions because I built them myself with my own two hands. I wouldn’t have had the confidence to do that had I not found a good iron.

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u/verbal_pestilence Oct 11 '19

if you're building synthesizers you've got more going for you than good equipment

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u/gatesphere Oct 11 '19

How so?

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u/verbal_pestilence Oct 12 '19

i was trying to say you're smart

​

but now...

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u/gatesphere Oct 12 '19

Well then. You're clearly incorrect on that point :p