best newbie welder to get?

[beastmode986]

whats a better welder im trying to save money but also get decent welds im new to welding
http://www.harborfreight.com/welding/arc-welders/80-amp-inverter-arc-welder-91110.html
or
http://www.harborfreight.com/welding/mig-flux-welders/90-amp-flux-wire-welder-68887.html

 

[DaiSan76]

I have a 90 amp Flux core like you linked, and while it does work well if the conditions are right, I would save a bit longer and get one that will do gas as well for MIG. You will get tired of grinding off splatter from the flux core wire.

 

[beastmode986]

ok thanks

 

[souperman000]

So the HF ones are good for first timers? I am also looking into one

 

[mckutzy]

With those FC migs you need a full 20amps, nothing on the line except the welder. This is the best scenario for using these machines.

 

[exenos]

I have a cheapie 120 amp mig and a decent old (25 years) 240 amp arc (stick) welder and the difference is just amazing. The welds are more consistent with the arc and the extra penetration is a god send at times. I'm not advocating getting a arc welder over a mig I'm jsut saying, do yourself a favor, bite the bullet and get a good 180 amp welder the extra power and quality are very much appreciated.Also as a suggestion, see if you can get an hour or two with a arc welder and the same time with a mig and compare the two to see if you have a preference. I found out that i much prefer the arc welder over the mig because i have more control over the weld.

 

[ryf]

if you are looking to buy a welder for one cart, a HF welder is ok I guess, if your investing in a welder to have for more projects, there are way better flux core welders, you have to spend more, but the old HF blue welders are ripe with issues, I had one, wouldnt take one if you paid me now that I have used a lincoln 100 and a hobart 190. I can only assume these were made to a cheaper cost since they cost the same and things that are better usually cost more lol.


the stick welder would be the better choice of the two, because there are alot less moving parts etc, and no drive systems or wirefeed consumables. make sure you buy rod rated for AC.