Newbie looking for 1st welder

[mikefromnh]

I am looking to get a stick welder to learn with... Been thinking about the the everlast powerarc 160 or 200.


But then started looking at the 3in1's and multi process welders. And have confused myself as to what I want/need.

To make matters worse I now realize the everlast imig 200 also stick welds. So my question -- is the stick capability of the imig any better, worse or different then the powerarc 160???

I want to learn stick welding first for around the property stuff, tractor bucket repair/reinforcement and modifications to a log splitter. And later learn mig or tig.

 

[Mark @ Everlast]

YOu can cover all bases then with the MTS 200 or MTS 250S...They are very competent in any mode.
But, I'd recommend starting off with the PA 200ST. You can get stick down, then order the torch and learn DC TIG. The iMIGs actually weld very weld with stick...but I'd start off with a dedicated stick unit. Stay away from the TIG/Stick Plasma units...imho.

 

[Shield Arc]

I've read here on TBN this is the only welder you'll ever need. They build bridges, and skyscrapers with these.

 

[mikefromnh]

Other than the increased amps what does the pa200 offer over the imig200 in stick mode?

 

[k0ua]

I've read here on TBN this is the only welder you'll ever need. They build bridges, and skyscrapers with these.

Shield, I have one of them I will sell ya... and uh... I have a bridge up in NY, I will let go pretty reasonable too!

 

[Mattc8832]

A lincoln 225 which is called a buzz box is a good beginner machine. I don't like SMAW stick welding with AC current.You can look for a Lincoln 225 AC/DC buzz box which would be better. The Everlast looks like a nice machine also. Look at your options. You may want to consider taking a evening Welding class at a local high school or career center in your area.

 

[Shield Arc]

I've also read here on TBN, that there is no need for DC. AC is all that is needed.

 

[mikefromnh]

I've considered the buzz boxes but like the idea of dual voltage/portability. I've been watching for a used ac/dc but everyone wants over 300 for one...which got me thinking about a inverter.

The trouble is each different model adds features for only a little more $$$. I'm not sure which offers the best value for me... I don't want to end up with a bunch of boxes that overlap features and cost more in the end.

There was a new never used mts250 for sale locally for 1/2 of list but I missed out on that one. And it's not dual voltage...

When I built this house I ran a dedicated 10/3 with ground to the garage and another 10/3 line to the back door of the basement because that is what I had left over. So that limits me on welder choices.

 

[IslandTractor]

I've read here on TBN this is the only welder you'll ever need. They build bridges, and skyscrapers with these.

I had one of those but as soon as I finished building the Verrazano Bridge, I sold it and got a 110v MIG machine from HF and have never looked back. Glue guns rule!

 

[Shield Arc]

mikefromnh you realize you're not going to learn how to weld in a week or two? Maybe get the Everlast PowerArc 200, or better yet the PowerArc 300! When you get a handle on SMAW, then buy a Tig rig. Once you learn to use stick and Tig. Learning Mig will be a walk in the park. SMAW, and Tig will teach you how to read the puddle. Once you learn that it all falls right in place pretty quick then.