[TheForge] welder suggestions

[Jerry Frost]

Steve:

Go with the stick machine. The learning curve is a good thing. It's a lot 
more versatile than GMAW and a lot less versatile than TIG. It'll be slower 
than GMAW but faster than TIG.

 Lastly migs are rightly known as the lawyer's welder. Until a person 
actually KNOWS how to weld (make a puddle and fill it in) migs are downright 
dangerous for structural welding. Point and weld makes it easy to make a 
beautiful LOOKING weld that's cold lapped on one side.

Don't get me wrong, GMAW and MIG make fine structural welders if the person 
behind the tool is trained up. The learning curve to competent structural 
welder is about the same with either type machine.

So, here's my actual advice. Buy as large a multi process machine as you can 
afford. Start with stick and upgrade to GMAW, MIG and TIG as you need and 
can afford to.

Frosty
-------------------------------
If it ain't forged
it ain't real.
Wrought iron is.
The FrostWorks

Meadow Lakes, AK.

From: <Steven.Walker at its.state.ms.us>


> I'm in the market for a welding machine.  But I'm having a dilemma on what
> to buy. I have two buddies that are welders by trade and both have
> suggested different paths for me so I'm at a loss at what to do.  One
> thinks I should go with a 220v MIG (ie. Lincoln Electric SP-175) and the
> other thinks I should go with an AC/DC stick machine.
>
> I've researched this on the Internet and there seems to be arguments for
> both sides....good arguments.  Money is a big issue.  I can get into the
> stick machine for much cheaper initial cost.  But I hear in the long run,
> the consumables will be cheaper with MIG.  I also hear there is a much
> greater learning curve with the stick machine.  I've used both already and
> the MIG was easier but I don't think I would have a problem learning the
> stick if that's what I chose.
>
> And I know it also depends on what I'm going to weld.  I realize there is
> not one welder out there that will do everything but I'm looking for a
> welder that will best serve the majority of my needs.  Could range from
> fabricating stands (for swage block, anvil, etc.),  tables for shop,
> building stock racks, repairing tractor implements (disk, bush hog, box
> blade, etc.), building/repairing truck bumpers/hitches, and various
> blacksmithing project needs.
>
> I'm sure there are a few opinions in this group and I'd sure like to hear
> them.
>
> Thanks!
> Steven Walker
>