ARC welding stick diferences?

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I am new to welding and do not know what type of stick I should be using.  I am typically welding stuff for around the shop working with square tubing or angle iron.   Can someone help me with the different types of rods, along with the different pros and cons of the different rods.  If there are any web pages with his information that would be great also.ThanksDavid
Reply:What machine do you have?  AC/DC?  http://www.mylincolnelectric.com/lee...w+Alloy+Steelswww.urkafarms.com
Reply:6011 & 6013 would get you by
Reply:I agree with John for rod selection to start with.The 6011 is a deep penetrating rod.  Not as pretty a bead as others, but great for strong welds.  Can easily burn through on thin stuff.6013 is more of a shallow to med penetration rod.  Easy restarts and has a nice bead.  Will probably be your best choice to get up and running on.Here in the Great White NorthMosquitoes can't fly at 40 below
Reply:I have a AC machine
Reply:All these rods operate a little differently. But your main choices are 6011, 6013, 7014 and 7018AC Working with light sheet the 13 will be a bit easier due o milder digging action than 11. If it was me and I had AC only the electrodes I would stock would be, 1/8 6011, some 3/32 6013 for sheet work and 7018AC in 3/32 and 1/8. The AC 7018 is available under the Weld-It brand from Tractor Supply stores, it operates very easily and makes great strong welds even for the inexperienced operator as long as you have enough heat and get enough on. Lincoln also makes 18 especially for AC. Most 7018 says it will run on AC in the liturature but its not the same as the special 18 for thse machines. I give it as gifts from time to time to friends with AC machines who are not really weldors, they love it.  It also re-strikes easily.www.urkafarms.com