Unfortunately the tip doesn't last as long as hoped. After a few 2-3 months of use, the tip wears out and cannot provide the required heat. It suddenly started losing its ability to heat up as fast as before when I analyzed the tip and to my surprise it was hollow see photo. I have a backup that I'm using but it will probably fail soon so I'll have to get another one. They're advertised as long-lasting tips, but even my other cheap station tips lasted a full year with similar use. Sorry METCAL, your station is great (so far) but your advice is short lived.