A close-up of a stick welder's gloved hand holding an electrode holder as it creates a tack weld between two rusted steel plates, with sparks flying and smoke rising in a dimly lit workshop.

Can You Tack Weld With a Stick Welder and Get Strong Results?

Tack welding is essential in metal fabrication to hold components in place before the final weld. While MIG and TIG machines are often preferred for their ease of arc control, many wonder whether stick welding (SMAW) can be used for tack welds. The short answer is yes—but success depends on proper technique and awareness of…

Split-image showing a TIG welder on the left and a MIG welder on the right, both actively welding in a workshop, with a bold "VS" in the center.

Is TIG Welding Better Than MIG for Clean, Precise Welds?

Choosing between TIG and MIG welding isn’t always straightforward—it depends on what you’re working on, how much control you want, and how fast you need to get the job done. Both methods are solid, but they serve different purposes depending on your goals, skill level, and shop setup. Let’s dig into the key differences based…