Yeah, I acknowledged my shame with this decision in the post. I did buy this $15 radio kit to "practice" soldering: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004YHZE0G, but I've already somehow oxidized my solder iron's tip to the point that it won't heat the solder anymore. I would love a dummy's guide to soldering (YouTube or books) recommendation if you have one! (Although, I'm sure practice, practice, practice is going to be the top suggestion).
> (Although, I'm sure practice, practice, practice is going to be the top suggestion)
Start with traditional 60/40 tin/lead flux-core solder because it's much easier to work with. Once you have a feel for how soldering is supposed to work, you can then start experimenting with the often finicky and hard-to-use lead-free solders and fluxes.
I recommend getting a brass wool tip cleaner and using it often while soldering. Also some good quality flux will really help. I recommend Amtech for the flux, and the tip cleaner I use is Hakko branded. You can find both on Amazon and elsewhere.
Should have shelled out for a soldering iron or station, pliers, new caps, which might have ended up cheaper in the long run (or not)