help with decision

admin

I'm new to welding, I already have a Lincoln weld pak 100 and I'm wanting a 230 volt mig welder. I have been looking at a few welding machines. They are Millermatic 180 $850.00, Lincoln 180C $809.00, and Hobart Handler 190 $649.00. They all are spool gun ready. The Millermatic has infinite voltage adjustment. The Lincoln and the Hobart has the "click" voltage adjustment.  I will be welding steel up to 1/4 inch thick and maybe 5/16 inch steel every once in a while. I'm want to get some others opinions about the 3 different welders. Thanks in advance
Reply:I have a 180c which has infinite voltage adjustment(the tapped version is the 180t)  It's an ok machine & does up to 3/16" well.  It has put up with a lot of abuse (even getting punted by a bull) & is still ticking.1/4" is a little bit much for any of those machines, (no matter what the stats might say).If 1/4" is your goal, I would go with a 200a+ unit.Buy American, or don't whine when you end up on the bread line.
Reply:Asking a lot for the smaller machines!The click system works aight, you just need to set your wire speed accordingly.  Given the options, I would go with the miller as it allows for more play with the settings.  If you intend on getting into 1/4" and up, I would look into getting a machine with a bit more give, if you know what I mean!
Reply:buy a used machine they last a long time and the price will be less than half of a new one........  Miller Dynasty 350Twenty Six HammersThree Crow BarsBig Rock