I'd just read the model brochures and pick one that will do more than you ate asking from it, not one you are maxing out it's capabilities, Because you don't want to max the duty cycle on the machine. It's annoying to wait for things to cool off and I imagine it's easier on components too.

 

A mig welder is the way to go for ease of use, but I have to disagree on what looks better. MIG looks like a worm, stick though, a nice stack of dimes! I have a Lincoln 180 220v welder, been using it for 5 years now with no problems

 

If you like stick welding by all means get a stick welder only those that can`t weld say the welds look worse.

Far to many cold lap problems with wire feed welding .Among the self taught crowd

You don`t say where you live I happen to live in the area where the Miller rep is outstanding not always the case.

Miller Lincoln yes even The Yellow one it all depends on what company gives the best service in your area. For new welders for used I always say take it for a good ride!!

If this welder is not putting bread on the table Hobart welders are not to bad for the hobby type welder.

There is a big difference in making sparks then welding I would be able to do all you want and have with a good 120VAC welder on a branch circuit . The only limiting factor is gonna be duty cycle

 

http://www.weldfabulous.com/Esab-055...-p9340248.html

You wont be disapointed.... Althou there only been a few welders ive used that i didnt like. One was a harbor freight junker. Go figure....

 

how are those multipurpose welders (like the Longevity ones)? or are they just pieces of junk? i've been thinking of getting a welder once i put more electricity in my garage and it'd be really nice to have a plasma cutter! i've never TIGged before, but I've seen it done numerous times and I have put in a good amount of hours on an ARC machine and MIG in the past.

 

Well those China Inc welders either work and some are quite happy!!!


While others have nightmares trying to get things repaired under warranty spending several hundred in freight shipping things back and fourth .

As far as i know there is no source for parts in the United States any reconditioned units are cobbled form units sent back

Although some are a knock off Lincoln and Lincoln parts will work but most who bought China Inc don`t want to pay the price for Lincoln parts

There are lots of threads around on these units research your self make your own decision