Homebrew PCBs

I have several of the Hakko stations some ESD models and some 
standard, they work great.  If you do much work spending the extra 
money on a Hakko or other type station is well worth it.  Weller 
make a station that is in your listed price range.  

Normally filing down most tips is not a good idea, unless it is one 
of the solid copper tips then you have to file them as they wear.