What kind of welder should I buy?

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Hi everyone!  I don’t know much about welding yet but I would like to get one to use for projects at home and I’m kinda confused about which one to get.  Some of my projects will be a smoker, deer feeders, deer stands, pipe rail fence, and decorative ironwork.  I’m not sure if I should get an arch welder, mig welder, 110 volt, 220 volt bla bla bla...
Reply:I vote for 220, Mig, gas and flux-core with the most duty cycle you can afford.  Never can tell what project you may take on
Reply:I second the 220v unit.  MIG is easiest to learn, but a bit more expensive to buy if buying new.  Most of the 175-180 amp models can be had used & are easily repaired to make fair welds with.  I happen to have 2, one set up with gas the other with flux core.  Both will weld what I would attempt to weld i.e. not trailers or big stuff, but things like 1/8" wall tubing, 3/16 tube/plate/angle.  They will do 1/4" with the right prep & lots of heat, but will also do things like sheet metal by turning the heat down.220V is the way to go, MIG is easier to learn.MarkI haven't always been a nurse........Craftsman 12"x36" LatheEnco G-30B MillHobart Handler 175Lincoln WeldandPower 225 AC/DC G-7 CV/CCAdd a Foot Pedal to a Harbor Freight Chicago Electric 165A DC TIG PapaLion's Gate Build
Reply:I'll vote the 220 MIG also, something like the MM 180 or HH 187. They aren't too big to move around but have the capacity to do quite a bit of different things.HH 187Miller Bluestar1EAHP AlphaTig 200X
Reply:I'll make it 4 for a 220v mig.The MM180 and the HH187 are nice units. I'd add the MM211 to the list. If I was looking at a "small" machine that would top my list. Reason: More top end power over other lower end 220v machines, portability over similar level machines and the ability to use 110v outlets at reduced weld capasity if you want to go somewhere else, say to weld away from the 220v power source in the shop to work on your fence.I also see some good CL deals from time to time on older 220v migs, MM185's, MM200's to name a few.
Reply:you may want to look at Steve Bilels welding video series th help you decide.
Reply:220 mig. do yourself a favor and buy a lincoln! you have to own at least one lincoln to be in the mens club....
Reply:Originally Posted by El_Lloydeo220 mig. do yourself a favor and buy a lincoln! you have to own at least one lincoln to be in the mens club....
Reply:yeah thats good enough. in addition to my welders i have a continental! haha
Reply:I vote the 220 mig too! The miller 211 looks niceYa gotta spend money to make money!
Reply:Lincoln SP175 Plus, craigslist special...............$75.00 Attached ImagesMarkI haven't always been a nurse........Craftsman 12"x36" LatheEnco G-30B MillHobart Handler 175Lincoln WeldandPower 225 AC/DC G-7 CV/CCAdd a Foot Pedal to a Harbor Freight Chicago Electric 165A DC TIG PapaLion's Gate Build
Reply:I have a Millermatic 211. In the past years I have done a fair amount of welding. Stick,Mig, Tig etc. I am now working on building a three place ATV trailer. Welded 25 percent stick and 75 percent Mig. I love this MM211. If you purchase this welder you will have 110V or 220V in one unit. Plus this welder is very smooth. There are alot of very good units out there. The choice is yours. Good luck on whatever unit you decide to get. Idealarc 250 AC/DC  Millermatic 211 Auto Spoolmate 100