[sperry]

Well, I'm thinking about finally getting a welder for the garage. Problem is, I'm not sure what to get. After doing a bunch of online reading, I'm thinking that I'm right in between something like a Hobart 140, and a Miller 180 Auto-Set. I'm pretty sure 99% of the time, a lower end 110V setup will get me by, but everyone says it's better to buy more than you need because that 1% of jobs that come up are now tackled, plus the 230V welders just plain work better, even on the smaller jobs.

So... price no object, I'd love to pick up a Millermatic 211, since it runs both 110 and 230, and has all the best features. But they're like $1000, plus the cost of gas/tank and installing a 230V breaker if I want the higher output, plus a mask, gloves, jacket, etc. Putting me easily around $1400+, when I really want to spend more like $400.

So, does anyone have a recommendation on a cheaper MIG welder? I've been scouting Craig's List to no avail so far. I think if I go used, I might as well get a lower-end 110V welder, then sell it once I know what I'm doing and what welder I really want.

The ones I've been leaning towards:

Millermatic 140 Auto-Set
Lincoln PowerMIG 140C
Hobart Handler 140

Anyone have experience with these units and/or seen them for sale on the cheap? New, they're all a bit more than I wanted to spend, so what are some equivalent older models, preferably Miller/Hobart or Lincoln brands since they seem to be the best and most easily serviceable (hell, the Lincolns are sold at Home Depot & Lowes!).