Re: Beginners welder
 

That's an extreme view, they have their uses - I still wouldn't choose one though.

Machine Mart/Clarke/SIP etc are all basic stuff, but depending on what you want to do, and as long as you appreciate the limitations will be just fine for the occasional wedging together of bits of broken motorbicycle.

Definitely get an auto darkening hat, it will make your welding much easier, particularly if you are a beginner. See here for a similar one to the brilliant and very cheap article I have, complete with flames up the side which is clearly much better.

Re: Beginners welder
 

I got my auto mask from the shop on the mig welding site mentioned earlier for about £40 if it helps

Re: Beginners welder
 

Defo on the auto mask. It really helps as you can see where you need to start welding, then they black out when you pull the trigger. Wouldn't be without mine, plus they charge when you weld.

Re: Beginners welder
 

Face shields definitely crap. I ended up with arc eye years ago after using one.

for those who have never had a flash, imagine 6 inch nails being hammered through your eyes and into your brain with a toffee hammer. slowly builds to horrid pain

Re: Beginners welder
 

you forgot to add the sandpaper eyelids.

Re: Beginners welder
 

Also if doing a lot of MIG work or any arc process, little burns from flying sparks are fine, what is not so f***ing funny is a hilarious hank hill T shirt shaped intense sunburn!

Re: Beginners welder
 

No gasless really are crap and especially as they are being marketed as a cheap welder for beginners .

Their only use is there relative portability and suitability for outdoor (i.e. windy) use.

Re: Beginners welder
 

I'd rather have stick than gasless mig, way more versatile.

Re: Beginners welder
 

Agreed. I don't like gasless, but I still think 'crap' is harsh.

Re: Beginners welder
 

Also, be wary of open cuffs, the amount of red hot sparks ive had roll down my sleeve and leave a thin burn line about 8 inches long is amazing.

I always say, next time ill put elastic bands rounds my cuffs or something and forget, then ill get it again.

Ive got a biggish Sip turbo welder, it used to be decent but the wire drive mechanism needs improving as it slips terrible now and also the liner needs replacing as its a common thing on my welder apparently (above issues are related)
There is a common mod to do on them but i never get round to looking at it.