I am trying to solder 4 1.2V NiMH batteries together end to end to make a battery stick. What is the best way to do this? I tried melting the solder with the soldering iron on one battery and then trying to jam the other battery on real quick, but this was a horrible failure. Do i need a different tip, or solder, or any suggestions welcome.

There are special batteries made for soldering. They come with a small tab already spot-welded to each of the ends.

Sounds like you don’t have those, so stop trying. If you could get them hot enough, you’d melt the plastic separator inside the batteries and they’ll self-destruct.

There are many battery holders on the market. You can probably find one that meets your needs. Try Radio Shack or Digikey.com for lots of different models or the batteries with the solder tabs.