Any Recomendations for a beginer Mig welder?

**2k-Trans** · 10-15-2009, 04:41 AM

I've been recently thinking a great deal about purchasing my first welder but not really sure yet which to go for these days.

I'm looking for something reliable and fairly cheap, Max $500 although would like to stay in the 300-400 range.

Does anyone have any recommendations?

Oh almost forgot, My roommate is hooking up a 220 line just for this purpose so either voltage should work.

**0rion** · 10-15-2009, 06:43 PM

If you can go a little more money I just saw Tractor Supply had a 185amp Hobart for $599. I'd love to have a nice mig but to get a good one you're looking at serious money for something I might use twice a year.

**pajeff02** · 10-15-2009, 06:50 PM

I have the Hobart Handler 185 -- that thing makes me look like I know how to weld!

**0rion** · 10-15-2009, 06:53 PM

Originally Posted by pajeff02

I have the Hobart Handler 185 -- that thing makes me look like I know how to weld!

that's the one in the sale ad.

**pajeff02** · 10-15-2009, 07:00 PM

Originally Posted by 0rion

that's the one in the sale ad.

It's really a nice unit, especially being 220 volt it can weld the thick stuff too. I use C25 for a shielding gas rather than flux core wire and have been able to lay down some nice looking beads.

**0rion** · 10-15-2009, 07:02 PM

I gotta get one some day. I know someone that works for hobart and can get me a deal on one. I may have to give them a ring and see what kinda deal I can get.

**pajeff02** · 10-15-2009, 07:03 PM

Originally Posted by 0rion

I gotta get one some day. I know someone that works for hobart and can get me a deal on one. I may have to give them a ring and see what kinda deal I can get.

Doesn't the wife need to get you something for Christmas?

**0rion** · 10-15-2009, 07:04 PM

Originally Posted by pajeff02

Doesn't the wife need to get you something for Christmas?

dude, I get to stay at home with the kids while she works. I already got my x-mas present for the rest of my life.

**pajeff02** · 10-15-2009, 07:06 PM

Originally Posted by 0rion

dude, I get to stay at home with the kids while she works. I already got my x-mas present for the rest of my life.

Can't argue with that...

**Hi-Po** · 10-15-2009, 10:10 PM

Originally Posted by 0rion

dude, I get to stay at home with the kids while she works. I already got my x-mas present for the rest of my life.

Awesome, no welder needed.

**MrKid** · 10-16-2009, 03:52 PM

I just picked up a Hobart 140 for $450. It's a great welder. I'm used to using pro Miller units, and this little welder keeps up with most jobs. Whatever welder you get, make sure it can handle flux and solid wire. There are benifits to using both. This one runs off 115v, which is very conveniant. Also, make sure it can weld up to 1/4 steel. Most can, and if you need to weld much bigger than that, I prefer to use ARC welders.

**FORD RECOVERY EXPERT** · 10-18-2009, 08:43 PM

Check Clist also..... some killer deals can be had there also.

**croslod** · 10-19-2009, 06:58 PM

I have the hobart handler 135 solid wire with steel mix gas and have had it for several years, i think the 140 replaced this one. I run 480v with .045 wire all day at work but this little 110v is pretty sweet for the garage and a tight budget.