Re: how useful is an arc welder?
 

ya, its a stick welder. i only plan to use it once, so i guess at half the cost, i might not be able to go wrong cause a MIG is just extra garnish.

Re: how useful is an arc welder?
 

Just be sure to get an AC/DC one. It's much easier to weld thin stuff with DC. HF has one on sale now for like $120. Get an auto dark helmet if you don't have one, they make a huge difference. You can make nice welds with stick, just leave the slag on until your done and then chip it all off. If you did it right, you'll have a decent looking weld.

Re: how useful is an arc welder?
 

There is no such thing as flux cored MIG or flux cored stick. There is however, FCAW, GMAW, and SMAW. All three different processes. FCAW and GMAW can share similar machines however, as they are both a wirefeed semiautomatic weld process.

Re: how useful is an arc welder?
 

Don't forget about "dual-shield"... it's so easy a kid can do it.

Re: how useful is an arc welder?
 

True, but how often do you see dual sheild used for automotive applications? ;D

Re: how useful is an arc welder?
 

fluxcore harbor freight style


If you practice with it it does the job. Will never look pretty but hey for 129 bucks cant cry about it

Re: how useful is an arc welder?
 

That doesn't mean that it won't work well. It would work MUCH better than MIG or flux core will.