Need advice on my first welder

[Dazman]

i already have a post on here concerning a welder. Initially, I was looking at the 140HD then as I read more posts and did more research I started to lean towards the Lincoln 210MP.

I have not done any welding in years so I figured I'd start out slow with the 140HD and then progress to a better welder, but I feel I should just buy the 210MP because I could grow into it. My friend has the 140HD and thinks I should buy the same welder. The analogy he used was that it would be like buying a $300 hockey stick for your son that is just learning to play hockey.

I have some projects I need to do, but after that I'm not sure what else would be next. That said, I'm already itching to start welding so I'm sure I'll find things to weld.

So am I wrong to buy a good machine right from the start? The 140HD seems so limited when looking at the voltage selector and overall quality.

I just need advice from those that have gone through something like this before.

 

[cumbriasteve]

I went through that scenario exactly and my answer is buy the best you can afford, within sensible limitations of course.

If the second hand market over there is anything like the UK, even if after your projects you find you don't intend to continue welding, as long as you have kept the machine in clean condition you won't lose much to sell it.

Perhaps your friend has a touch of jealousy that you may have a better machine than his

 

[Dazman]

You might just be right!

 

[gaz1]

went through same thing but cost beat and advise did the trick for me

i bought cheap a clarke 150tm and its been good enough all this time i also have a sip 150 gas and gasless

though i will admit im looking now for something that will do the extra in welding 5mm clarke just about does it

 

[Dazman]

Well I ordered the Lincoln 210MP, which includes a rebate of $250.00.

Here in Canada the welder will be going up by about $150.00 Canadian sometime next month. Since I want to try TIG at some point I planned on buying the TIG accessory kit next year, but was informed it will be priced at $990.00 with the new price increase! So I ordered the 210MP with the TIG kit.

 

[cumbriasteve]

Well done.

How do you fancy doing a review?, from box delivered to first welds and what you think of it, owner reviews like that have massive value to others who may be thinking of a similar buy.

 

[Dazman]

For sure. Especially, since I'm new to welding. Well it's been quite a few years, but I hope to pick it up fast again.

I can't believe all the prices are going up on these things.

 

[Dazman]

I've never thought of it that way.

According to my LWS this machine has been in high demand, which I can understand based on its price point.

I'll be walking around the house looking for things to weld!