[Lee] has a Hakko FR301 desoldering gun and a Duratool knockoff ... stiff wire to push through the barrel frequently when using a tool like this to prevent having to clear it like [Lee] did ...

For boards in need of repair, [Proto G] uses a manual pump or copper desoldering braid that comes coated with flux. If you can afford one, a desoldering machine seems like the way to go—it ...