Spektrum RC IC3 Device Connector (2) (Male)

So, I’ve had challenges with soldering my own ic3/ic5 connectors. I’m back in the hobby after years away, so I’m definitely rusty on soldering, and I also don’t have the best soldering iron. My iron works for basic wires in common gauges. It’s not fancy by any stretch. This connector seemed to really need a good (potentially pricy iron). The problem for me is those metal bullets can’t be removed so you need to work quickly and have a good iron that transfers heat, gets a good solder then you need to remove the heat. Quickly. Much longer and you’re melting (ie ruining) the plug. It’s a great plug, and I’m sure it’s user error, but I do think I’m probably representative of your average hobbiest—I only need to solder when I occasionally buy new ESCs that don’t come with connectors. That’s it really... even the motors I buy have tamiya-style bullet plugs or come with the large 1/8 scale bullet connectors. I don’t really want to buy a $100-ish iron for a couple $4 plugs. Here’s my hack: if your ESC doesn’t use the smart wire, get the same size “e”connector (ec3/ec5). You can pull the bullet out, take your time heating/soldering (much more room for time/error) and it works great. Let’s face it, if your soldering something that needs the smart wire that’s not already pre-soldered from Spektrum, you’re way fancier (and more advanced) than many of us... and you have a solder station. Five stars as a good connector, but I’m giving four because it’s tough to solder for your average enthusiast.