buying a welder, which one Options

[wilchek]

I am looking for my first welder. I need some input what to get and the differences (wire,stick, gas). Which welder do you use gas with and hold the wire in your hand? Anyone know of any good buys? I have used a stick and wire feed welder before but I am by no means good at it. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/welder.gif)

[Brew]

Which welder do you use gas with and hold the wire in your hand?

Tig (tungsten inert gas) are, IMO, the best and most versatile, but they're also the most expensive and difficult to use.

For the hobbiest, the wire feed welders with gas sheilding (Mig) are the cheapest and easiest to learn to use effectively, especially if you're planning on welding sheetmetal.

There are a variety of brands and configurations out there, but you cant go wrong with a Lincoln or Miller brand, in the highest voltage you can afford. The 110v units will do great on sheetmetal, but are limited on thicker materials. 220v units are the cat's meow for most things auto related.