HTP Welders

[blackd]

Ditto on the grinder and bandsaw. You might add a cutting torch for larger cuts and/or Sawsall for smaller cuts. If you weld. You will grind. If you weld you will need neat cuts, (ergo the bandsaw).

Don (Newbie hobby weldor)

 

[msocko3]

I just went through what your going through, I looked at the Miller, I looked at the Lincoln, the HTP and Hobart. I'm not real new to welding I've stick welded for years and have done some mig work. My brother has a Esab 180 which he likes alot, only problem is when it comes to the comsumables such as contact tips, he can't just up and buy them local. They just spent $10,000 on a Esab Mig at work last week, nice piece of equipment. Anyway I bought the Hobart 175 at TSC and I got a good deal, it came with a cart and a 11 shade auto darkening hood. It was the last one with the hood but they had several more which came with the cart. I paid $635 plus tax so I think I did quite well. I've used it several times and have not seen any difference in the performance between it and my brothers Esab. The spot and stich isn't even worth considering, I can spot and stich just fine without a machine helping me. Look at the thickest metal you will be welding along with how much you will use it and let that be your guid.

 

[bobsedor]

Thanks for the insight!

 

[bobsedor]

I saw that same deal at TSC and thought it was pretty good. I go back tomorrow to check it out.

Thanks!

Bob

 

[msocko3]

I thought it was a good deal which is why I jumped on it, heck the guy who helped me load it at TCS was shocked at what a good deal I got. I can't complain about the welder it works great, it has a Miller H10 gun since Miller does make Hobart welders now. For the amount of welding I do and the thickness of the material I'll be welding this one will do just fine. If I ever have the desire to weld 1/2" or thicker I'll use the one at work.