For the most part, leaded solder is fine and still commonly used by hobbyists (as far as I know), and is actually easier to use than lead-free solder. You can use it no problem, just handle it properly.
this post was submitted on 12 Nov 2025
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just handle it properly
Well, how does one handle leaded solder properly, then?
Just wash your hands and don't lick it tbh. People handle much worse on the regular--most denatured alcohols are literally poisoned. People use them all the time directly on their skin and inhale the fumes the entire time, for example. I wouldn't personally work in a lead mine, but a little exposure by touching a bit of it will be fine.
Lick the solder. Got it.
Don't lick, that's dangerous, but nobody said "don't eat 60/40 solder". So go for it. Just remember to put a few sheets of paper in the bowl before taking a dump, otherwise you might break it.
Ventilation
There's nothing wrong with using leaded solder, you just need to wash your hands after soldering. Many of the components made before RoHS will contain lead too.
Old capacitors may be no good. Electrolytic capacitors go bad with age. You can measure the leakage and ESR to see if they are still good. Any paper capacitors are going to be very leaky by now. If there are any oil filled capacitors from the 1970's or earlier, they may contain PCB oil, which is very toxic.
Tin-lead solder is what you use to solder electronics. Don't use it for pipes, tho, for that you want tin-silver.
Yep.
Just don't breathe the fumes (many have a rosin core which is quite not fun to breathe in).
Also a selection of the MC logic(?) ICs
He learned something regarding radio (german: Nachrichtentechniker I think).
I think that might be the most accurate translation
Are the capacitors not dried out?
I have no idea - how do I test that safely?
Some cheap volt meter like for batteries. Charge them and measure. If dried out, no volt. Only a concern for electrolyt condensers though.
Bet you have some capacitors I desperately need. If you're in the US I could pay you to send me a couple.
Germany I am afraid.