First welder purchase. I think I found the right one. Looking to be reassured. :)

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Hello there,First of all, thank you everyone who contributed to the "welder advice for newbies" thread.I was able to sort out most of my questions thanks to that.I'm ready to pull the trigger and order my first welder.As this is my first, I'd like to spend <$350.My first project will be to weld a patio table for my girlfriend using 1/8" mild steel.I do not have a garage or shed, so I'll be welding this outside.  Since i'll be outside contending with wind, i'm operating under the assumption that SMAW is the right tool for the job.  (I've actually had a bit of practice with both ARC and MIG.  I think Arc is a little more fun, but don't really have a preference yet. )I'm considering the Klutch ST200i.  Its very portable (a big plus for me).Its SMAW, and would let me eventually explore some light TIG work later on.What do you guys think?  I'll attach the specs below.Thanks for taking the time.  I really do appreciate any feedback you have for me.Klutch ST200i:  $300http://www.northerntool.com/shop/too...1805_200631805Welding Processes Stick, TIGWelding Amperage Range  20–200 DCPhase SingleVolts 230Amps  50Duty Cycle  15% @ 200ARange Selection Infinite amperage controlAmperage Adjustments  Infinite w/digital readoutElectrode Size (in.)  1/16–5/32Welds Up To (in.) 3/8Weldable Metals Steel, stainless steel, cast iron, hard surfacing
Reply:This one's probably going to last longer: http://nashville.craigslist.org/tls/4986666800.htmlor this: http://nashville.craigslist.org/tls/4984665356.htmletc: http://bgky.craigslist.org/grd/4998611353.htmlFor a cheepo, this one actually seems designed for TIG a bit better: http://shoals.craigslist.org/tls/4986411974.htmlTest it before you buy, good luck with whatever you choose, and welcome to the forum.Last edited by Brazin; 05-31-2015 at 04:44 PM.SqWave 200Millermatic 190Airco 200 ACHypertherm PM45Boice-Crane Band SawVictor O/A
Reply:I'm not familiar with the Klutch brand name, but pretty much with welding machines, you get what you pay for. $300.00 is definitely an entry level machine (especially for a DC machine). But, perhaps for what you're going to use it for, it will be fine. It may last you forever...if not, hopefully you'll get your $300.00 worth out of it.It's been my experience that a better quality welding machine has better quality electronics, resulting in easier and better quality welds. There's nothing worse that a machine that runs crappy. Very frustrating. But, as I said, I've never heard of Klutch...I'd personally check Craigslist for a good, used name brand machine.Rich
Reply:There seems to be resistance among a lot of folks to buying used welders. I am not sure why that is. With older transformer welders there are few or no electronic parts to go bad. Generally if it welds at time of purchase it will likely weld for a long, long time to come. Same can't be said for inverters. I would be very careful about buying a used inverter. Since this one is new, if it suits you, I say go for it. Just know there are used stick welders out there for less money if you look hard enough.Miller Multimatic 255
Reply:What's your location ? Check craigs list as mentioned for a used AC/DC Miller Thunderbolt or a Lincoln red tombstone. You should find either one in your price range.
Reply:I have to agree with louie. I'm not a fan of inverters, especially ones with an unknown name. I had a dynasty and three months after the warranty ran out the circuit board fried, it coast $1500.00 to get it fixed and it's not an unknown name. Like Louie said, there's lots of used welders waiting to be fire up again.
Reply:Originally Posted by kctgbI have to agree with louie. I'm not a fan of inverters, especially ones with an unknown name. I had a dynasty and three months after the warranty ran out the circuit board fried, it coast $1500.00 to get it fixed and it's not an unknown name. Like Louie said, there's lots of used welders waiting to be fire up again.
Reply:Only has a 15% duty cycle at 200 amps.  You might consider the Everlast PowerArc 200 @60% duty cycle.  If you contact Oleg (username EVERLAST)on the Everlast sponsor forum, I bet he would give you $50 off as a welding web member to match the northern machine. You also get dedicated 6010E electrode port.   Many inverters will not run 6010 electrode well.   For extra $50 you can get the ST model with TIG setup.    I've used the smaller 140ST and it's a capable machine for the money.Tiger Sales:  AHP Distributor    www.tigersalesco.comAHP200x; AHP 160ST; MM350P,  Spoolmatic 30A; Everlast PowerTig 185; Thermal Dynamics 60i plasma.  For Sale:  Cobra Mig 250 w/ Push-pull gun.  Lincoln Wirematic 250
Reply:Get the extended warranty, use the thing and sell it before the warranty expires.  Move on up."USMCPOP" First-born son: KIA  Iraq 1/26/05Syncrowave 250 w/ Coolmate 3Dialarc 250, Idealarc 250SP-175 +Firepower TIG 160S (gave the TA 161 STL to the son)Lincwelder AC180C (1952)Victor & Smith O/A torchesMiller spot welder
Reply:-Southpaw-Can you explain why some inverters will not run 6010? I have heard that before, but never used an inverter. Just curious. I have a Klutch 1/2" impact that has been a good one. It has more torque than anything else I could find. As far as their welders, surely they are just rebranding someone else's. Maybe someone on he we can figure out what. I personally do not think I would get one though. There is a 1952 GE in my family's farm shop. Never had trouble with that thing. As long as the shop does not fall in on it, I am not sure much else would hurt it. My other grandfather left me a Lincoln tombstone that is at least an early 70's model. Never touched it either and if was working good a few years ago. I totally agree with BD1.SA-250 TMDSquarewave 200Thunderbolt AC/DC1951 G.E. welder
Reply:Hmm I guess my post was invisible, 4 used welders in the OP's area, hand picked to improve on the Klatch...SqWave 200Millermatic 190Airco 200 ACHypertherm PM45Boice-Crane Band SawVictor O/A
Reply:Originally Posted by BrazinHmm I guess my post was invisible, 4 used welders in the OP's area, hand picked to improve on the Klatch...
Reply:Would you want the Klitch?I wouldn't really bother with a $300 welder either, but that's what the OP wanted.SqWave 200Millermatic 190Airco 200 ACHypertherm PM45Boice-Crane Band SawVictor O/A
Reply:Originally Posted by Blocker-Southpaw-Can you explain why some inverters will not run 6010? I have heard that before, but never used an inverter. Just curious.
Reply:Originally Posted by BrazinHmm I guess my post was invisible, 4 used welders in the OP's area, hand picked to improve on the Klatch...
Reply:@everyone:  Holy crap. So many responses!  Thank you so much!!I can already tell I'm gonna like this community.@Brazin:  Thank you for sifting through the local listings.I share your mindset.  I'm all for used tools. Especially if its a new type of tool for me.Sadly, with my current setup, space is at a serious premium.  With my current situation, I have neither a garage, nor a shed for tool storage.  I would like to remedy that in the next year or so... but before i think about that, my girlfriend and I need to think about getting hitched first.  @Oldendum: Nailed it.  That's my thinking exactly.  Assuming i outgrow this welder within a year or two, I sell it on craigslist and put that money towards the next welder. @Southpaw:  Thank you!  I'll go look these up tonight after i watch someone else I care about die on the latest episode of game of thrones.I'll have to look up E6010 electrodes.  So far I've only used E6013. ( I believe they are the most "generic" sticks? )  I've honestly never asked, nor ever needed anything else yet.  (But my experience is limited to running practice beads on scrap metal.)
Reply:Originally Posted by BD1I saw the post but didn't know that was in his area. How do you know his location ??  I don't see it shown here ?I agree with AKweldshop, I would not buy any of those either
Reply:Shortfuse-Thanks. Good explanation of something I never considered. Sorry for that sidetrack guys. Just trying to lurn sumthin.SA-250 TMDSquarewave 200Thunderbolt AC/DC1951 G.E. welder
Reply:I think the Everlast PowerArc 300 does a real good job with 6010.  Attached ImagesDon’t pay any attention to meI’m just a hobbyist!CarlDynasty 300V350-Pro w/pulseSG Spool gun1937 IdealArc-300PowerArc 200ST3 SA-200sVantage 400
Reply:Originally Posted by Louie1961There seems to be resistance among a lot of folks to buying used welders. I am not sure why that is. With older transformer welders there are few or no electronic parts to go bad. Generally if it welds at time of purchase it will likely weld for a long, long time to come. Same can't be said for inverters. I would be very careful about buying a used inverter. Since this one is new, if it suits you, I say go for it. Just know there are used stick welders out there for less money if you look hard enough.
Reply:You can't compare an inverter to a tombstone or any other AC machine. I think I'd look at an Everlast with a 5 year warranty. CEP has 2 of them and considers them the best arc for the money and that's comparing them to some of the best machines ever made... which CEP also owns.
Reply:Originally Posted by lowsider... but before i think about that, my girlfriend and I need to think about getting hitched first.  ...
Reply:Originally Posted by OldendumGet the extended warranty and trade up before the warranty expires.
Reply:For what it's worth, I have one of these. I also have the Hobart counterpart to the Miller Thunderbolt mentioned. With that being said I will say that it's a nice machine. It's the size of a lunch kit and welds fine. It will more than meet your needs for the project that you mentioned although to be honest I'd be looking at a mig/flux core welder except for maybe size issues in your situation A welder like the ST200 is a good first welder. Once my son using place he can use it, I'll be passing it down to him so he can learn. Sent from my iPad using TapatalkMiller Diversion 165 TIGMillermatic 211/141 with Auto-SetHobart Stickmate LX235 AC/DC StickNorthern Tool 135 MIG & Dry Cut SawKlutch ST80i/ST200i Stick/TigGrizzly G9742 BandsawMilwaukee Circular Steel Saw/Portaband/SWAG Offroad Table
Reply:@SpEd  Thank you!  I was hoping to hear something similar.  The compact size really is the largest selling point for me.@SouthPawThank you again for the advice.I've read up on the Everlast power arc 200.That really does look like the smarter purchase.@Everyone:Thank you again for all your comments.  I've genuinely learned quite a lot from interacting with this thread.Originally Posted by lowsider...  I've genuinely learned quite a lot from interacting with this thread.
Reply:Originally Posted by OldendumYou will genuinely learn humility if your girlfriend ever reads your reply to my comment about trading up.  !!!!!! +1 BWAHahahahaha
Reply:Originally Posted by lowsiderIf anything she'd be the one trading up.
Reply:If there is a Northern Tool store near you, that would be a big plus, in my rarely sought after, and seldom heeded opinionIf you have a need for warranty work, drive to the store, and drop it off, rather than having to pay shipping both ways.That is the main reason I got my 200 amp MIG, TIG, Stick machine from them. Built several pits with it, still like it.If the manufacturer has service centers located around the country, it would not be as big a deal, though - not sure if Everlast does or not. Their machines are tempting also. It's just the shipping thing.Northern Tool also has a 115v, 140 amp mig machine, that is really impressive in person. I haven't run one, but it looks like a nice machine, down at the local store.The Blue HF machine would be a temptation for me. For 150 bucks, it boasts a really nice duty cycle, though the top end is not as high as the Klutch.As hobbyists, we spend most of our time below 150, I'm guessing.It would have been helpful if NT gave the duty cycle % at 100 and 130, instead of maxed out.Hobart Beta-Mig 2511972 Miller AEAD-200LEMiller 250 TwinNorthern Ind. Hybrid 200Longevity Stick 140Longevity Migweld 200SThermal Arc Pak 3XR
Reply:Originally Posted by OldendumI hear you, pal. Been 36.5 years for me so far.  My wife missed the trade-in period.  Now she'd have to pay to have me recycled.
Reply:I would not pay to much attention to whether or not you will be able to run 3/32 6010, dcep, I had to pull my Chicom machine and long 220 extension cord to weld a section of tubing onto a sawmill i built and never had any trouble lighting up and making changes. Go ahead and buy the machine you need. Sent from my SGH-I747M using Tapatalk
Reply:I'd buy that P&H in the c list ad and never look back!
Reply:You can check out Hugong Welders web site for info on the Northern Tool welders and plasma cutters, they look pretty good, and a real company.Thermal Arc 210 - Tweco 211I - Cutmaster 52
Reply:Originally Posted by cd19I'd buy that P&H in the c list ad and never look back!
Reply:ST200i on sale $270.http://www.northerntool.com/shop/too...BVb1mNB8v8Jdn6"USMCPOP" First-born son: KIA  Iraq 1/26/05Syncrowave 250 w/ Coolmate 3Dialarc 250, Idealarc 250SP-175 +Firepower TIG 160S (gave the TA 161 STL to the son)Lincwelder AC180C (1952)Victor & Smith O/A torchesMiller spot welder
Reply:Originally Posted by CEPI’ve never used a P&H welder before. But have used several P&H cranes over the years. Do you know what P&H stands for with cranes?Poor & Helpless!
Reply:Never heard back from the everlast rep.  He might be out of town or something.I ended up getting the Powerarc 140.  Its a step down from the 200, but has the flexibility of using 110 And 230 for under $220.It should have all the juice i need to weld some simple 1/8" steel now and again, and its tiny and compact.Also:  If it doesn't work out, I can just return it and upgrade to the 200.