Tool Reviews

When nickel electrodes make sense Cast iron can be welded with stick electrodes, but it is less forgiving than mild steel. The base metal contains a lot of carbon; rapid…

Choosing the right stick electrode diameter is mainly a heat-control decision. A larger rod deposits more metal and can weld thicker steel faster, but it also requires more amperage and…

Slag inclusions are bits of flux trapped inside a weld or between passes. They weaken the joint and can cause a structural weld to fail inspection, even when the bead…

Why vertical-up needs a different approach Vertical-up stick welding is useful when a joint needs reliable penetration and strength, especially on thicker steel. The uphill direction gives the weld pool…

A stick arc restart is a small weld made under awkward conditions: the rod has to strike, establish a steady arc, and tie into the previous bead without leaving a…

E7014 is a good choice when you want a mild-steel fillet weld that lays down smoothly with relatively little effort. Its iron-powder coating supports a higher deposition rate than many…

E6010 is a fast-freezing, deep-penetrating cellulosic stick electrode commonly used for open-root pipe welds. Choosing the right size and current matters, but neither makes an unsuitable procedure safe or acceptable:…

Best Stick Welders with Hot Start for Reliable Electrode Ignition Hot start is one of the most useful features on a stick welder. It briefly increases welding current when you…

Why the holder matters on a long stick-welding day A stick holder has a simple job: grip the electrode securely, conduct current, and let you change the rod without fighting…

A long stick-welding lead can make a workshop easier to work in, but a cable that is too small or poorly connected can waste power and run hot. The right…