Forney Easy Weld 100 ST Review: A Compact Powerhouse for Beginners
If you’re stepping into the world of stick welding or need a portable machine for light-duty tasks, the Forney Easy Weld 100 ST is worth a closer look. Designed with simplicity and affordability in mind, this compact welder aims to deliver solid performance without overwhelming new users. But how well does it perform in real-world use? This review explores its capabilities, design, and value to see if it’s the right choice for your welding projects.
Forney Easy Weld 100 ST Welder Review
The Forney Easy Weld 29801 100 ST is a lightweight stick welder that runs on standard 120V household power. With a maximum output of 90 amps, it’s built for beginners, hobbyists, and light repair work. The unit supports both 1/16″ and 5/64″ electrodes, making it versatile for common mild steel jobs.
Weighing just 9.65 pounds, the welder is incredibly portable. Its compact design allows it to be carried easily to job sites, home garages, or even tight welding spaces. The green metal case is durable enough to handle minor wear and tear, making it ideal for mobile work.
Performance and Usability
Despite its modest amperage, the 100 ST performs reliably for small to medium stick welding tasks. Its integrated hot start feature helps strike arcs more easily—a major advantage for beginners. The arc stability is commendable for an entry-level machine, and the duty cycle (30% at 80A) is more than fair at this price point.
This welder is DC output only, which is a plus for smoother welds and easier arc starts compared to AC output. It doesn’t come with a TIG torch, but the machine is TIG capable, giving users room to grow into other processes with an additional setup.
Ease of Use and Setup
The Forney Easy Weld 100 ST is intentionally user-friendly. There’s no complicated setup or learning curve—just plug it in, clamp your ground, insert the electrode, and go. The single-dial amperage control is intuitive and responsive. While it lacks an LED display or advanced settings, it offers just enough for beginners to learn without intimidation.
The startup kit includes essential items for beginning welding immediately, such as the electrode holder, ground clamp, and cables. However, you’ll need to purchase your own safety gear and electrodes.
Ideal Use Cases
This welder is ideal for basic metal fabrication, auto repairs, farm equipment maintenance, and DIY projects around the house. It’s best used on mild steel up to 1/4 inch thick. Due to its low power output, it’s not designed for industrial or structural welding jobs.
Its portability makes it a favorite for people working in remote locations or tight indoor spaces. Hobby welders and those learning the craft will find it a confidence-boosting machine.
Conclusion
The Forney Easy Weld 100 ST is a solid entry-level welder that offers great value for light-duty tasks. It’s portable, reliable, and easy to use, making it a great option for beginners or as a backup unit. While it won’t replace high-powered industrial machines, it performs admirably within its intended range. For the price, it’s a smart investment for anyone starting their welding journey.
