Looking at entry level welder

[shooterdon]

I have no experience and am overwhelmed by the number of offerings in the sub $150 range. My first project will be welding up some Unistrut but I would like to be able to go up to 1/4" wall if possible. I have 110 and 220V available.

Seems like a unit that does MIG and stick would be a good choice.

Any thoughts, advice and recommendations?

 

[Roadworthy]

Have you given any thought to your budget? Recommendations can vary by price.

 

[Jrasband]

Harbor Freight - Titanium 225

 

[mike0000]

Don’t forget to be careful with welding galvanized metals

 

[rangerfredbob]

Although I have an assortment of the Titanium line from HFT, the Yeswelder options are a better deal and have quite the following online...

Not sure I'd bother with a multi process, I have a couple but it took me years to get to anything else... if you want to do stick get a cheap used Lincoln tombstone, they go for $50-100 all the time on facebook and craigslist... flux core will be much more user friendly though.

I agree, if doing anything with galvanized grind it off then do it outside with a fan blowing the fumes away from you...

 

[gengine]

My recommendation is a little more expensive, but a Lincoln 180 Dual is a one and done welder for the occasional welder, by one and done, I mean, buying a cheaper welder to learn on, then buying another welder to upgrade later. Buy a good one to start with, and you'll never have to buy another, unless you really get into welding. The Millermatic 211 would also be an excellent choice as a one and done welder. I am a well seasoned welder, and I have run them both, and they are great welders. They both are dual voltage, 110v and 220v. The both will do MIG (wire feed w/shielding gas), and FCAW (wire feed-flux core) welding. You can also look into the Hobart welders and the Forney welders. I was also very pleased with my buddies 110v Forney MIG welder he bought from Napa for around $200. I have a large and expensive Hobart MIG welder, and love it, I also have a Millermatic 255, and love it, but the Lincoln 180 dual is my go-to machine for most of my projects.

 

[shooterdon]

I should have stated my budget is $500 to get the machine, auto dimming helmet and other 'stuff' to get started.

For the type and quantity of work I will be doing, I cannot justify investing more. That is why I was interested in the $150 machines that seem to get decent reviews on Amazon.

I have a buddy with a stick welder so I may borrow his for a while to see if this is something I want to spend more money on but I hate borrowing stuff.

One question for those who have welded Unistrut. It is galvanized so that is a concern. Is it worth dealing with or should I just purchase square tubing to be safe and make things easier?