After years of frustratingly messing around with broke-dick irons I finally said enough is enough and got a quality unit, best decision I ever made.
http://www.iso-tip.com/products-page/smart-solder-series/quick-charge-soldering-iron-kit-boxed-7700/
Few other models available - http://www.iso-tip.com/
Best Soldering Iron i've ever owned. Battery powered so no stupid fucking cord to worry about. Heats up in literally seconds (almost unbelievable) and stays hot for about 2-3 joints, then just hit the button for about 10seconds and your back in business. Only complaint is tips are hard to find, do yourself a favor and order a half dozen in various sizes. - Also might want to look into the upgraded yellow model, basically identical only recharges faster, bigtime plus.
Have one of those too, def. better then the pencil irons but again finding tips can be a pain in the ass. Also don't like how you have to hold the trigger down at all times, I modified mine such that it runs non-stop when plugged in