Handlaid HOn30 Turnout, Mark II

I decided to start on another handlaid HOn30 turnout. My first concepts for the hinged point system were successful, and I was confident I could improve upon my last try.

I've been researching soldering techniques, and recently upgraded my soldering iron setup. I've mentioned this before, but I used to hate soldering. With a passion. I have a legacy of awkward, sloppy, botched solder joints to attest for that.

However, as I've delved into DCC and handlaid track, soldering has become a necessity, so I've invested time reading and researching the topic extensively. As a result of that research (and a lot of practice), I find I'm starting to enjoy soldering much more lately as I apply the concepts I learn to make cleaner, tidier work.

It's the details that become important in the soldering process; an appropriately shaped fine-tip, for one. Being fastidious about cleaning and tinning the tip after every solder joint. Oh, and the granddaddy of all soldering rules: USE FLUX!

Compare the joints on the straight stock rail (first install) to those of the diverging route (second); even in this build, the joints got better as I worked through the turnout.

The blobby solder joint near the top really stands out. However, I'm fairly happy how clean the web of the rail is; no gobs of solder seeping between the foot and head of the rail.

I'm finding a new determination to make each piece of work better than the last. This applies to not only this turnout, but each kit, paint job, coupler installation, scenic treatment, etc. Finding improvements to my skill set, and seeing the results improve with each try is really becoming a rewarding part of this hobby for me.