I am to the point where I need a good welder and am trying to consider all my choices, given a limited budget. I found on some of the other posts in particular to go with a TIG. I also saw some things to look for in a unit that I had a question about. There was a suggestion that it should be at least 30 amps. Is this input or output?
Also, I am looking at a model which would serve other purposes as well by HTP which does MIG, TIG, and Stick (though it said it won’t TIG weld aluminum). Would this be a good starter as an all purpose welder or should I look to keep my units separate? If I keep them separate, what would be a good starter, affordable TIG to look for? I don’t want to be tool poor! 🙂
I am not sure how much you would use MIG or stick in gunsmithing. TIG lets you control the area and amount of heat added to the piece you are welding on, along with exact placement of metal. You can put a TIG torch on any DC welder but the electrode will be energized as long as the welder is on. Then you need a gas bottle and regulator The more expensive welders will have less voltage fluctuation but the big thing is duty cycle, which should not be a problem with the small parts we deal with. As far as amperage goes I would get something that has about 90- 100 amps or so output this will do up to 1/4” or so, the key thing is to get something with a variable output not just a few settings. If you need to weld aluminum you will need to get an A/C welder with a high frequency output. Just my opinion, hopes this helps Jack R
Reply:
TIG is the way! A little difficult to master though. Brazing is another option
Answer:
You will eventually need a gas torch to silver solder, heat treat, and case harden. TIG is the ONLY way to go for actually welding on gun parts. You can get a terrific education in how to do this at almost any of the week long NRA sponsored gunsmithing courses at the various schools that have gunsmithing programs. AGI, of course, has a great welding course that actually see how the “puddle” works while welding.
