[sperry]

Originally Posted by kidatari

Correction:

I have a borrowed 240v Lincoln MIG, and my personal Miller 240v ARC/Stick welder. MIG is running .023" wire with C25/Gold Gas (25% CO2/75% Argon)

I probably have 30 minutes on the MIG welder. I was able to take to it much more quickly than the stick welder, as stick is tough to start.

I also have a HF Auto-darkening helmet, it's awesome. Cost ~60 I think.

My recommendation is to not waste your time on a 120v machine, but that's my personal opinion. But I intend on welding stuff thicker than 1/4". I just use the dryer plug in our garage, and have the welders setup to use the same plug, works like a champion.

I'd like to get a TIG setup, as that's what I'd really like to cut my teeth on, but I'm gonna try and rack up the hours on the MIG before I consider dropping 1600+ on a TIG outfit.

Considering I got my brand new 120V MIG for about $600 less than the cheapest 240V Lincoln, I'm gonna go ahead and just do two passes on the thicker stuff.