mig vs. arc

admin

I am just starting to weld. I have used a mig welder before and and arc welder at school and I was wondering which one would be better to "master" first? Thanks
Reply:Master the all! --Gol'
Reply:Start with stick.  The rest will be easier if you learn with a stick.  I've never seen anyone who could stick weld, that couldn't mig with a few minutes practice.  that's not the case with mig.  I know plenty of guys who can mig, but couldn't run a decent bead with a stick to save their life.I'm a Lover, Fighter, Wild horse Rider, and a pretty good welding man......
Reply:Stick is my favorite.  Just set the amps and go!  No fooling with wire speed, stick-out, or gas.  Can't weld with anything but Stick or O/A if you're outside and there is any trace of wind movement.Miller Syncrowave 200MillerMatic 180 AutoSetHobart Airforce 500iVictor O/A (80cf)
Reply:Originally Posted by 700R  Can't weld with anything but Stick or O/A if you're outside and there is any trace of wind movement.
Reply:Originally Posted by 700RStick is my favorite.  Just set the amps and go!  No fooling with wire speed, stick-out, or gas.  Can't weld with anything but Stick or O/A if you're outside and there is any trace of wind movement.
Reply:Originally Posted by Hammack_WeldingStart with stick.  The rest will be easier if you learn with a stick.  I've never seen anyone who could stick weld, that couldn't mig with a few minutes practice.  that's not the case with mig.  I know plenty of guys who can mig, but couldn't run a decent bead with a stick to save their life.
Reply:Originally Posted by CaptainWillybut.... what about flux core?
Reply:Hey mark123,I will also agree wholeheartedly with Hammack regarding the stick(SMAW) process and would add to really learn O/A to get a true understanding the processes of metal fusion. To expand a bit, the stick process will just about do anything you need to do, especially on some heavy thick metal applications. O/A will allow you to get an in-depth "feel" of welding and the melting of the metals and how to control your heat parameters. By learning these 2 processes initially in your weaning welding years, the MIG & TIG processes will be acquired quite easily because you will know what you need to obtain solid weldments with these different processes. Stick welders will give you knowledge of the different characteristics of different weld rod parameters and your positions that need to be learned. The O/A process will really give you a tremendous basic background to acquire the process of TIG welding as the parameters are the same with only the methods that differ... one with a flame, the other with an electrical arc. Do yourself a favor and learn both these processes initially, and you will only get better and more proficient with all the other processes. Lastly, never think you have "mastered" the processes in the welding arena.....too many uncontrollable facets and circumstances can occur on any given day. Good luck & keep us informed on your progress.      DennyComplete Welding/Machine/Fab. ShopMobile UnitFinally retired*Moderator*"A man's word is his honor...without honor there is nothing.""Words are like bullets.... Once they leave your muzzle, you cannot get them back."
Reply:Originally Posted by Hammack_WeldingStart with stick.  The rest will be easier if you learn with a stick.  I've never seen anyone who could stick weld, that couldn't mig with a few minutes practice.  that's not the case with mig.  I know plenty of guys who can mig, but couldn't run a decent bead with a stick to save their life.