Which MIG for ~£450 (not including gas or accessories)

[ljkenny]

I'm currently in possession of a GYG GYSMI 130A MMA Inverter that I've been using for scratch start TIG.

It's fair to say that I'm having a scream, and it's fuelling my tool-whore problem!

I'd like to purchase a MIG welder to complement the aforementioned machine and give me some more options.

Since I am only a hobbyist, I can't justify spending too much, and I'm looking at around the £400 mark (perhaps a *little* more).

I've been scouring eBay for *decent* second hand units, but can't find anything suitable.

If you were to buy new with my budget what would you buy?

I was initially looking at a Clarke (I had one before and I quite liked it) or the Sealey SuperMIG, but you guys really don't seem to rate them at all.

Also seen people suggest the Gys SmartMIG 162.

Opinions please!

 

[slim_boy_fat]

R-Tech 180?

http://www.r-techwelding.co.uk/mig-welder-r-tech-i-mig180/

 

[molten mickey]

Boc are doing multi purpose mig 175 amp with lift tig and mma for £420 was looking at them yesterday look a nice machine

 

[ljkenny]

The BOCs look good. Are they quality machines?

What are people's feelings about them?

 

[Fazerruss]

There's a portamig in the for sale section within budget

 

[pondy]

I have a portamig 185 in your budget but Your a little far away

 

[weldequip]

He hasn't said what type of work he wants it for yet? No point just having a fixed price in mind if it won't do what you want.

 

[ljkenny]

Nothing too heavy. Just knobbing about really.

I should think anything over 150A would cover 99% of my use-cases.

 

[ljkenny]

What do you guys think about the Gys SmartMig and Boc machines?

 

[Jim Davey]

Can't comment on the BOC unit, but the GYS is a solid little contender in this sector.

 

[Mee]

I like the R Tech, its a breeze for welding most things but like all inverter machines you have to take the time to set them correctly, which is actually easier being infinite power as opposed to stepped power; in addition you have a MMA facilities for stick welding.

 

[ljkenny]

Well that did not go well.....

I ended up buying another TIG, doh!