One last caution concerns the solder itself. Solder contains a high percentage of lead. Dispose of used solder, and desoldering braid. Keep all solder substances out of the reach of children. It is also good practice to wash your hands after handling solder.
Lead poisoning can ruin a perfectly good body.
If the tip, or heater barrel are in contact with metal, the iron will not get as hot as it should, as quickly as it should. When the iron is hot, wipe it on the dampened tip sponge, and then tin the iron tip with a small amount of solder. It is convenient to have a metal waste basket or tray to flick the excess solder into. This will help to rapidly heat the parts so that the solder will flow nicely. Now shift the solder to the parts, and flow it in.