Well I cannot specifically speak to coax, but for wiring up keys etc. I have generally wrapped the solder around the wire and applied heat. Once the solder falls off I know all is good. Now I certainly have fried my finger tips, but I guess that is why a set of those helping hands or whatever they are called come in handy. SOmething you can clamp the work piece in.
I never quite mastered the center conductor on coax, but maybe the connectors have changed so you have an easier time or do not need to solder it. I'd be curious about what others say as well.

On Dec 22, 2011, at 8:55 AM, Tom Behler wrote:

> Hi, all.
> 
> As many of you know, I have been gradually getting into the world of =
> working with various types of coax connectors, including crimp/solder =
> connectors from The RF Connection.
> 
> One of my best elmers in this regard has been Steve (KW3A).  His patient =
> answers to all of my questions are very much appreciated.
> 
> Anyway, I have a question here that I thought was general enough that =
> others on the list might benefit from the various responses I might get.
> 
> My     question is what is the safest and most blind-friendly way to tin =
> wire inpreparation for soldering?  In particular, I=E2=80=99m thinking =
> of the center conductor on a piece of coax, and stranded wire that might =
> be used for other purposes.
> 
> As always, thanks for any suggestions that anyone comes up with, and, in =
> the meantime, I=E2=80=99ll continue my soldering 101 refresher training =
> here.  (grin)
> 
> P.S.  I=E2=80=99m traveling and using my laptop at the current time, so =
> if my responses are a bit slow in coming, that=E2=80=99s why.
> 
> 73 from Tom Behler: KB8TYJ