Welder cover gas or not.

[19674x4]

The shielding gas is used to keep debris away from the area you are welding and helps with the penetration of your bead. On the models that use Flux-Core wire, the coating of flux around your wire acts as the shielding agent instead if co2 being shot out. Obviously the Use of C02 as your shielding agent is better overall, but if you are just doing light work, then using .35 flux-core will work fine. however that wire is more expensive than sheilded gas wire. I use flux core for the really light stuff, or if i have a job that requires a portable unit. otherwise i stick with a MIG that uses a shielded gas simpy because you get a better bead.

[gmcjimmy88]

Go Gas unless you find a great deal on a gasless. For the normal light work a flux-core will work. One advantage to a gasless set-up is you just need to keep an extra roll of wire ($20-$30) as opposed to keeping an extra bottle of gas or even worse running out in the middle of a job. My advice is to get a gas mig that has the capability (most do) to use the gasless wire as a back-up and keep a roll on your shelf just in case.

[MadMaxetc]

The paint not sticking to the flux core welds it due to not removing all the slag.

The flux is actualy in the center of the wire, so when you melt it during welding it it pops or creates bubbles in the weld. This will create a weeker weld. This can be OK as long as you know.

I got a Hobart 140 at TSC. It is a great welder. I would not get your gas there, I would find a local supply co. that will loan you the cylinder.

My setup way $400 I think. I have used the little welders, lets just say you get what you pay for. They are crap and should be avoided.

[flyboy2610]

One question: Where are you going to do most of your welding?
If you have a shop or garage, then gas is the way to go.
If you have to do most of your welding outside, then you will need to use flux core wire, as the wind tends to blow the shielding gas away. Then you get porosity (lots of bubbles) in your weld, and it very weak.
Something to think about.
I have a Lincoln welder that can do both. When I use it indoors, I set it up for gas, but when I weld outdoors, I set it up for flux core.
Using shielding gas is my preferred method, but sometimes it just isn't practical.

[worldsmysterie]

I would get a gas, has alot better weld. the only thing to avoid is wind or youll get pen holes. I have a gasless works or but its sometimes hard to get a good weld because of a bad ground.

[R.Smith]

The primary reason for the gas and flux is to keep oxygen away from the weld. Flux melts over the molten puddle to protect it from oxidizing and burning up. CO2 creates an oxygen free shield around the puddle. They both work but the flux wire tends to leave a porous weld. especially with beginners, and spatter more. It also requires far more cleanup to remove the flux scale as was mentioned earlier.

Of course, with gas, you have to buy...gas!

I have a couple machines but my favorite for body stuff is a little Lincoln migger I bought 8 years ago from Lowe's. I know they still sell them but I don't know for how much. It's a tuff little machine and simple to use. 110 volt. It will weld up to 1/4" with a pass on both sides or in one pass if you pre heat with a torch.