Need input advice please

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Im new at this gig and looking for a welder, and probabally won't be doing alot of welding in my life but would like to learn. I seriously doubt that I'll do any real heavy duty type welding. For a starter unit, is this a ok/good unit to learn and start on? http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=55250Im not looking to spend a ton-o-bucks on a unit, any input welcome. Thanks
Reply:well im pretty sure that it will stick metal together. it may last a lifetime for all i know, but i wouldnt bet the farm if you know what i mean.how much are you looking to spend? if thats all your budget will allow (dont forget the accessories, yes you will want to replace that hand held shield) then it will probably suffice for learning. IF you CAN spend more i suggest it! hopefully someone will chime in and have some sort of experience with that particular machine.so basically, buy better if you can. dont skimp on the safety gear! and good luck
Reply:If your intent is to learn how to tack stuff together then this machine will be fine. You'll note the "DUTY CYCLE" rating on this one is 15% at 115Amps. Duty cycle is an important figure when dealing with welding machines. It is how long you can weld in a given 10 minute period...this machine is good for 1 1/2 minutes before it hits it's "ain't gonna do this" part of the cycle.To learn to weld you need a machine with at least a 40% duty cycle or the frustration factor will kick in. Once that factor kicks in it's tough to learn anything. All welder/weldors face this factor on occasion but in the learning process it can be the difference between hanging in there and saying ***** this.Save some more bucks up and get a machine that will work with/for you, you'll be glad you waited !!Anything worth doing is worth doing RIGHT
Reply:I know 3 people who have bought those. Every one worked OK for a little while before the wirefeeder quit working.Miller EconotigCutmaster 38Yes ma'am, that IS a screwdriver in my pocket!
Reply:I thought 129 bucks sounded too good to be true.
Reply:Originally Posted by stubbsIm new at this gig and looking for a welder, and probabally won't be doing alot of welding in my life but would like to learn. I seriously doubt that I'll do any real heavy duty type welding. For a starter unit, is this a ok/good unit to learn and start on? http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=55250Im not looking to spend a ton-o-bucks on a unit, any input welcome. Thanks