Most Versatile Stick Welders 2018
It’s no accident stick welders are the most widely-used welding methodology all over the world. It’s cheap and can be done in all types of weather, come rain or sunny day. Of course, it has its downsides but looking at it from the point of view of a craftsman, those negatives may be far too slim to dismiss it altogether.
Every task needs some degree of skill. Even the most mundane. Take for instance, vacuuming. Today, vacuums are the easiest to operate with all those switches and features that make the cleaning a walk in the park. But cleaning your house well is a totally different story.
You need patience to get your abode the clean everyone is pining for. You can’t just bamboozle the process. If you just run the vac throughout the house without proper care you would end up with a place messier than when you started. And that would defeat the purpose of the vacuum.
Same thing with the best cheap arc welder. Yes, we emphasize the cheap part. Compared to other types of welding, SMAW or Shielded Metal Arc Welding is a lot cheaper. A total advantage if you’re keen about your budget. Who isn’t right?
Furthermore, the strength of the weld is tops. You can bet on it. It’s exactly why it has become a standard feature in most construction projects. The strength of the weld is splendid.
Especially if you’re putting together thick materials like cast iron. Which, mind you, can give other types of welding a hell of an experience or make it virtually impossible to do. So if you need to have two metal pieces to come together, look no further. Stick welding has you covered.
Or when you need to do heavier-than-usual repairs. You can rely on stick to get the job done. No problemo!
Of course, it’s not a be-all end-all solution to every welding project that comes your way. We would be untruthful if we said it is. But, it simply is tops, compared to the rest.
Oh again, the cast iron conundrum may bog you. But let’s face it. There is no welding methodology that will fits the strong metal. Only stick does it. And in doing so, only stick does it best.
Now, if you’re wondering how you can land a suitable piece of the SMAW weld, fret not. We’ve assembled the most sought-after products this side of the planet has seen. Even better, we’re showing you what makes each one outshine the rest. So you can make a timely decision that’s educated and wise.
So you get more bang for your buck. Read on!
Hot Max Arc DC Welder
If you want your welding to get started right away, this Hot Max should get your hands hot in no time. Why? Simply because this one works right out of the box. Imagine that. Just make sure you have the needed power to get this one going.
What are we talking about? Well just 120 Volts AC and you’re good to go. This one consumes as much as 10--100 Amps depending on the work being done. Surprisingly and perhaps a lot of good for you, this one’s lightweight - weighing but 6.5 pounds. Just like a newborn baby, right? At the price it’s at and you should be bringing this home in no time.
Electric Lincoln Stick Welder
Well, if you’re looking for the cheapest model in town in terms of a stick welder, this model from Electric shouldn’t be a first choice. Yes, this one’s priced a bit higher than usual. So if you’re welding needs are not that plenty, forget about this one.
But this one has got power. You’re looking at something that can weld a variety of metals better than you run-of-the-mill stick welder. Look at its amperage. You’re looking at 40A to a high of 225A, that’s a whole lot compared to our first welding stick on this list. Showing you how powerful this one is.
Indeed, indeed. From stainless steel, to welding between steel and metal of cast iron variety, it would not be a problem. This model takes care of that. Just make sure you’re ready to pay premium.
Thermal Arc Inverter Stick Welder DC Portable
Oh well, this one’s even pricier than the first two. And you may have to understand why. First stop, you’re not just looking at a stick welder here. This one’s also TIG welding. So that should tell you this offers a lot more than what normal stick welders can give.
Plus, it’s all neatly placed inside a package. Add the 1-year warranty and you should be lucky to have this one - granting you’re serious about welding.
Lotos Stick and Lift Start Technology
This one’s a good find, about the same price as the first on the list. And on that note, they’re also have more or less the same capacity. Well, this one’s a bit heavier at almost 10 pounds. And also a bit more expensive.
Similarly you need 110 VAC to run this thing. With such power, you’d be getting 140A output. Not bad. That’s a lot of power if you ask us. But what could separate this one from the competition is you have dual power here. This one is also possible for use in 220-volt workload. Imagine that!
Everlast Dual Voltage PowerArc Welder
You could say this is a treasure find. If you’re serious into welding and you have a big workload, this one should get you going. Just take note of the extra cash you need to land the priced possession.
Let's Compare the Best Versatile Stick Welders 2018
Detailed Comparison List
Product Name | Prices | Product Dimensions | Total Reviews | Product Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Hot Max Arc DC Welder | 15.5 x 12 x 8.9 inches | 10.9 pounds | ||
Electric Lincoln Stick Welder | 15 x 19 x 27 inches | 110 pounds | ||
Thermal Arc Inverter Stick Welder DC Portable | 7.5 x 19.4 x 16.4 inches | 26.4 pounds | ||
Lotos Stick and Lift Start Technology | 12.5 x 20 x 13.5 inches | 9.9 pounds | ||
Everlast Dual Voltage PowerArc Welder | 20 x 12.5 x 13.5 inches | 40 pounds |
Hot Max Arc DC Welder
Short review
For something that is cheap, this stick welder is one of the best deal that you may get in your hands that is available on the market. The Hot Max is fully equipped to be on the ready and to do what is supposed to do. You can be assured that it will do its job for its intended purpose.
Few of the great things that come along with this are that this is lightweight for maximum comfort use, compact for enhanced maneuverability and its small stature for easier handling. This is a little beast that is capable to be used with a 3,500 watt generator and so far, it does its job fast and clean without breaking a sweat.
It is a versatile arc welder that will come fully ready out of the box. It is capable to weld up a 1/8 inches metal using it by its two rods: 1/16 inches or 3/32 inches rod. This is effectively operates with a 120 volt power that weights with just 6 and ½ pounds. The Hot Max can be effectively used with a car inverter so you don’t need to worry about having a large generator just to fix it.
Using it is simple and just by inserting the ground clamp and the electrode holder to the machine. Then you can plug it all up and you are ready to go weld.
When you got this package, it will come all with 6 inches cable and ground clamp, 8 inches cable with an electrode holder, hand held shield welding and a strap. It may also worth to mention that this is made from China.
However, its reliability is on question. Even though that its power is undeniably good, it was observed that sparks comes out through its plastic case. Regardless of it being lightweight, it wasn’t reliable enough to last a long time being in a regular heavy use.
Also, the wire leads are pretty short. It would be more practical if it could be longer.
Things We Liked
Things We Didn't Like
Electric Lincoln Stick Welder
Short review
These type of arc welders are best described to as buzz or juke box since it makes lots of noises. The Lincoln Electric has the best value since the price is reasonable and can also last for a long time.
The overall construction design is simple and straight-forward which make this an ideal pick for both beginners and skilled welders. It has no frills and appears to be very basic with a simple knob adjustment for the amperage. Its main highlights of it are the simplicity to use and its impeccable performance.
With that being said, this big guy weighs around 80 to 90 pounds. So keep the weight in mind and do consider setting up a permanent working space to use this fella at the best environment.
This machine will be best for you if you are not looking that is something works great on aluminum welding or any unique metals. This equipment will do its job that is placed in front of it. Lincoln is famous brand for welders and earned its praise from them. This are seen very rarely to need a piece replacement or anything but if you did, getting all those are available.
It comes with a shield that was made from decent materials. It’s better than the other low-end hand held materials but its overall built isn’t that great; just decent. This welder has enough stability and durability to last and be handed down to your children.
In case that you notice that your unit keeps tripping the breaker, that just means that you are going to need to call for an electrical service for upgrade. The defect itself isn’t on the welder. Keep in mind that this welder is designed to functions well in basic and simple in operation.
Also, one of its good points is that its size in on a sweet spot. Although, it is pretty heavy so you may need to have a hand cart on reach. The only thing that is drawback is that the product itself is overpriced.
Things We liked
Things We didn't like
Thermal Arc Inverter Stick Welder DC Portable
Short review
For a stick welder that is cheap and fully equipped to be used as a basic tool, the Thermal Inverter might be for you. This model has everything you need to start with welding. Just keep in mind that this package doesn’t come with Argon Bottle and its kit.
It is very handy to use so you can be at ease to move around you house. It runs with a 120 VAC adaptor that is capable to deliver power of 95 amps on the 115 volt of circuits. That is only possible since this has Stick and Lift TIG capabilities. For this reason, you can cover a wide variety of maintenance and repair chores in your home, garage or even on the field.
The Thermal Arc is designed to be compact to enhance the user’s comfort and maneuverability. It is easy to set up and to use. Its build quality is top-notch and by any means, can only be used in minor or light jobs. This, however, does its work very well.
With a couple of rods and few of tungsten, it comes out of the box fully ready to strike an arc. This unit comes with a shoulder strap and handle for easier carrying. The case is a huge plus since it holds everything secure and nicely.
Out of this arc welder, you will get an amperage adjustment and a toggle switch. The leads off-hand is about 5 feet long which is a perfect spot for most garage job that you can bring in every nooks and crannies. You may also notice that it comes with a pig-tail that is essential to run it for the standard 120 V outlet.
Overall, this is a very nice and well-built little machine that is capable to run in everything to get started. It is best suited to do for building small structures such as metal frames or the likes. But you can use this is bigger welding tasks. This also means that it may take you a while to finish it and fully know what you are doing.
For a machine that you want to do something more than that, this may be insufficient for you. One more of its setback is that the screw tends to loosen and came out during usage. This screw is the one that connects in the negative output. When this happens, you may have to take apart the box itself.
Things We liked
Things We didn't like
Lotos Stick and Lift Start Technology
Short review
With a DC stick and DC TIG welding capabilities, the Lotos is a compact and sweet choice that offers high performance and efficiency. This is also can be operated in almost anywhere since it runs in both 110 and 220 V outlets. This can also be used in clean-powered generators.
Prior using this, the unit is packed with a styrofoam and evidently properly was handled. Some may know this but welders are prone and sensitive to the lightest budge and mishandling so it is crucial to do the packaging properly.
Along with the package, it also has TIG torch, stinger, collets, a ground clamp and a pigtail conversion of 240 to 120 for plugging to the outlet. This amazing free stuff is all in a very secure container which is briefcase-like. It also comes with a basic mask and a chipping hammer which are sweet bonuses.
Overall, the unit is very small and lightweight that could be easily carried thanks to its handy strap. The package, itself, is promising and has a lot of value and quality. To get the best out of it, we advised to use a 220 line circuit for maximum performance rather than the 110 line circuit.
This device is best suited to do some small projects and you can rest assure that it will be done well. If, however, you need a tool for your big welding projects that mostly going to play with heavy and thicker steal, you might need to look for other bigger machines alternatives.
It would have been perfect if this could come with a designated TIG torch for it to connect to the flow meter. It also seems that the button on the torch is unstuck since it is somehow to be stuck in place.
The description appears to be misleading, also. It isn’t a lift arc. This is incapable to some intricate welds using this tool.
Things We liked
Things We didn't like
Everlast Dual Voltage PowerArc Welder
Short review
The Everlast’s features are enough to be boasts around. It has a very nice compact design and powerful machine. This attributes are enough to caught attention in some consumers to this to buy.
Besides that, the cheap price is a lovely addition that makes it an irresistible choice. Its TIG function works expectedly well and its arc looks very steady even while in use.
When on stick function, it is capable to deliver enough power on 240 to cleanly and precisely cut the steel plate without breaking much a sweat. Having said that, this also means that it will shorten its life but the power isn’t reduced even if that is the case. It also has a couple of nice features: hotstart and autoarc. The performance itself proves to be enough for anyone that needs a stick weld to work on.
The welder has a dual voltage input and could be use also as a dual process welder. The built is a very well finish and has a built-in gas solenoid.
However, this package comes with a few holes. The gas regulator tends to leak a little whenever in use. It also has no AC output that is beneficial for aluminum but considering the price and value, this wouldn’t be so bad to stick and try this welder.
Things We liked
Things We didn't like
ADVANTAGES
Stick Welding Pros and Cons: Key Things to Know Before You Light It All Up
Welding is like marriage. If you do it right, it sticks through and through. If not, it just collapses over time. Reason why you should look into stick welding first and foremost.
Just as marriage has a lot of fun moments and also amazing experiences it also has some trying moments. The same goes with welding. It has a lot of advantages and also has a lot of downsides.
But the important thing is knowing what it entails. Once you know the pros and cons of stick welding you would be able to put it to maximum use.
So to help you out we’ve come up with the pros and cons of stick welding. So if you want to find out more you have to keep reading.
Pros
Highly Versatile
One good thing about stick welding is that it’s a very versatile process. It doesn’t require much and it can be easily done. With stick welding you don’t have to worry about location.
You can carry it out anywhere at any time. It could be carried out inside, outside on a ship, on a production line and many other locations. With stick welding you don’t need gas and water hoses.
Also, their cables are usually very long that they extend far beyond power source. There are also types that can be used in remote places. You can either use gasoline or diesel for these types.
This makes it very easy for you to carry out. And also allows you to carry it out at different places.
Good Equipment
The equipment used for stick welding are very simple. You wouldn’t have a hard time operating them. All you need to do is have a quick at the manual and there you go.
This makes it very easy for welders.
At the same time the equipment are also very portable. So you wouldn’t have a hard time transporting it. And with this you can carry out projects outside your workshop.
Also, these equipment are also inexpensive. You wouldn’t have to break into a bank just to buy them. That’s why many welders can afford to have these equipment in their workshop.
Suitable for most metals
One other great thing about stick welding is that it’s suitable for most metals and even most alloys. And this isn’t the case for all types of welding.
With this you get to work on a wide range of materials. And this doesn’t also limit the customers that patronize you. Which means you get to do more work and also earn.
That’s one great advantage of stick welding.
Isn’t affected by wind
One thing you can be sure of with stick welding is that there is no disturbance while working. And this is because stick welding isn’t affected by wind. So even when it’s so windy you can still carry on with your work.
This way you get to do your work anywhere at any time. And with this your work wouldn’t be hindered by any circumstances.
Suitable for areas where there’s limited access
This is the last advantage on our list. For stick welding you get to operate in areas where there’s isn’t so much access. And this is because it’s very versatile.
So matter where the place is you can still carry on with your work.
At the same time there are units suitable for places like that. And you wouldn’t have a problem doing your job there.
Cons
Mainly operated manually
One of the downsides of stick welding is that it’s more manual and less mechanized. With stick welding the equipment used are very simple and usually operated manually. And these can be a bit stressful.
Compared to other welding types that used mechanized equipment stick welding is a bit more stressful. That’s because more effort is put into it. And at the same time it’s a bit more tasking.
Also stick welding is also time consuming. And this might limit the amount of work that you get done in a particular day.
Requires skill and experience
Stick welding isn’t something just anybody can do. A person that will do stick welding must be well-skilled and also very experienced. It’s not something that beginner can try out.
And that’s because it involves complicated processes that need to be carried out. In carrying out those processes the skill and experience is required.
That’s why it’s not advisable for a beginner to try it out. Because it isn’t child’s play. And that person might even get injured from trying so hard to get it.
Frequent replacing of welding rods
This another downside of stick welding. This particular situation isn’t common in other welding types. For stick welding you have quite a lot of work to do. And that’s because you have to replace the welding rods frequently.
This can be really time consuming and at the same time very tiring. There are times that you might not have the strength to do that but the problem is that you must do it.
At the same time you would also have to spend money to keep replacing the rods. Which means cost of maintenance is a bit high. And if you’re low on budget you might not be able to handle the cost.
5 Absolutely Nonnegotiable Safety Tips when Welding
In life there are always unexpected accidents. In fact, there are times we know that a step we take might lead to an accident. But we still want to take the risk hoping that it wouldn’t happen.
The important thing here is that life is very precious and it’s important to stay safe no matter what the situation is.
That’s why you will find so many jobs and places with safety guides. This way you are aware of the things you need to just to stay safe.
Well, with welding it isn’t any different. There are a few tips that you have to bear in mind while working. And with these tips you can be sure that you wouldn’t get hurt when welding.
You might be wondering “but I don’t even know what these tips are”. Well, that’s why we’re here to help you out. We’ve come up with 5 absolutely nonnegotiable safety tips when welding. Read on.
1. Familiarize yourself with the operating manual
Well, it’s a bit obvious why this is the very first step you have to take when welding. Once you have a new machine the important thing is to go through its manual. With this you have an idea of how it works. Also you get to know things to do and things not to do when using it.
This way you safety is guaranteed.
Well if you’re not the only one that plans on using that machine make sure others go through it as well. That way everyone in your workshop can stay safe.
One great mistake that many people make is that they think that an operating manual only contains information on how to use it. That’s not the case, of course this is included. But there are also various safety tips and precautions in the manual that help enlighten you.
Also, it’s important that you go through the manual for all equipment used in the workshop. Don’t limit your reading to only for big machines in your machine.
Here’s another advice, just in case the manual isn’t available or has been misplaced ensure you check online. Or better still contact the manufacturer for the manual to be shipped to you.
2. Properly cover your skin
Another important safety tip with welding is to dress properly. Make sure that your skin isn’t exposed. That’s because welding isn’t an activity that makes you feel cold. Instead it produces a considerable amount of heat.
Not only the regular heat emissions but also UV and infrared radiations. And these can be very dangerous on direct contact with the skin.
That’s why you have to make sure that you’re fully covered.
Not just fully covered but with the right cloth. Make sure that you wear clothes that are heat resistant. This way even if your cloth comes in contact with the heat it wouldn’t get burned.
Also, ensure that you always put on your sun glasses and helmet at all times. While welding sparks can be released and they can be very dangerous to the eye.
So you have to make sure that every part of your body is safe from all the attacks of the sparks and heat produced when welding.
3. Put on the right shoes
Moving on to the next tip, it’s all about the shoes you wear. Your foot is also very important so you have to keep it safe. And this can only be done with wearing the right shoes.
Make sure that you don’t wear flammable shoes. You have to get a shoe that’s heat-resistant. And most leather shoes are a good option.
Also, make sure that the sole is also very strong and heat resistant. At the same time don’t get shoes that have laces. It can catch fire. And that would be goodbye to your lovely shoes.
4. Be careful of the arc
Arc flash isn’t one of the pleasant effects of welding. In fact that’s one of the most common effects that happen during unsafe welding. Well, the good thing is that it can be easily avoided. That’s if the necessary safety tips are adhered to.
The not so good thing about arc flash is that it takes hours to notice that you’ve actually gotten it.
That’s why safety glasses isn’t something you can pass. Even your welding helmet is also very important.
One thing you have to look out for when getting a welding helmet is the lens shade. This is very important because you have to choose a helmet based on this. With the right lens shade for a welding process you have nothing to worry about.
5. Be careful of what you breathe in
The truth is that while welding the air is no longer clean. You wouldn’t be able to take in pure air. But at the same time you can reduce the amount of smoke and toxic fumes that you take in.
And the bad thing is that these toxic fumes are not suitable for your body. They usually have adverse effect on the body.
Anyway, one thing you can do to help yourself out is to provide proper ventilation. Make sure that air goes in and out freely. That way you wouldn’t take in just anything while working.
Also, for people dealing with highly toxic processes it’s important that you provide respirators. That way they can breathe comfortably while they work.
With this everyone can stay safe. And this way people can be more efficient at work.
CONCLUSION
When you want to buy the best stick welders in town, you can’t get just about any product offering that comes your way. You need to make sure certain standards are met. For greater job satisfaction.
Welding is not for the timid. Nor for the overly aggressive worker. Without the proper skill, joining two metals together, especially if it involves cast iron, is a monumental task that involves great risk. It’s no accident many have lost their gift of sight for instance due to recklessness. Or lack of preparation.
Good thing if it’s just the lost of the gift of sight. There were instances when
The same goes true with choosing the best cheap arc welder. You can’t let being sloppy get in the way. So how do you get to the best cheap arc welder? That’s a tough question.
Indeed with bajillion products available on the market today, zeroing in on what’s best can be tricky. Which is exactly the reason why we’re giving our two thumbs up to Hot Max Arc DC Welder.
With so many manufacturers promising heaven and Earth just to sell their version of suitable stick welders, it’s a nightmare even for the most hardy handyman out there. But it’s a different thing when customers speak.
With users giving you a heads up, you’re assured their assessment is as truthful as can be. Why? Because they have known the ins and outs of the product. Exactly what makes the Hot Max Arc DC Welder a must-buy.
Every product here in our list are tried and tested. No doubt about it. Certainly, we’ve done our research and worked the field.
That is the reason why we may not be surprised if you have chosen one to bring home. And you should feel justified about it.
But there is no product that has garnered so much positive sentiment than the Hot Max Arc DC Welder. For users to give praise and countless positive reviews to a product is not really that common. But that speaks loudly on what kind of stick welder you’re dealing with here.
Something you also can be proud of. Immensely.
Because welding is work. And you need the best tools to get work done. Without blowing a huge hole in your wallet, of course.
The proof of the pudding is in the eating; if countless welders have given great account on a product more than any, it definitely is something to look forward to. To get value for your hard-earned money.
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