[TheForge] Welding gear. [lincoln]

[Gabriel Cain]

RIES NIEMI wrote:
> Gabriel-
> your website is Central Welding supply, which is based in lynnwood. 

Yeah, picking Central welding was because they're located where I live.

> You should go in to the actual store closest to you, and talk to em. Make
> them let you actually weld with that little lincoln, and see if it will do
> what you want. Then ask them what else they have, used and rental returns. 

Yeah, that's what I've heard from you, and some others on here -- bug 
'em about the used gear.  I should also note:  I haven't used an 
electrical welding system before.  I've also read the various MIG and 
TIG threads that've gone around, and I'm well aware of the benefits of 
TIG over MIG, and the drawbacks.  Right now, MIG is at the top of my 
price range (tops at about $500.00).

> It is hard to beat $360 bucks for anything but a buzzbox, and those little
> 110volt migs will actually do quite a bit. A buzzbox will do more, however
> it does need 220v. I have a 110v miller wire feeder, and it comes in awful
> handy on job sites.

Yeah, I had thought of a lot of uses I'd have for such a thing; 
doubtlessly, with one I'd find many more. :)

> In the long run, however, if you are planning on working with metal for
> years, I recommend looking at tig welders. You can weld more different kinds
> of materials, better, and unless you are doing production, the slower speed
> of tig is balanced out by the complete lack of spatter and cleanup.

One of the many virtues I've heard... :)

> As far as brands go, Miller and Lincoln are like Ford and Chevy- intense
> rivalry, but really they are both the gold standards for the industry. And
> nowadays Hobart and Esab are both built to very high standards too.

*nods*  I'll keep all of those in mind, then.

Much thanks to you, and the rest of the smiths on this list who've 
offered advice.  I do really appreciate it. :)

Gabriel

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