Stick welders don’t have to be expensive to be dependable—and Arccaptain proves it. These budget-friendly machines are showing up in home shops, garages, and even small repair businesses, thanks to their compact design, helpful features, and solid performance for the price. If you’re looking for a welder that’s easy to use, light enough to carry…
If you are searching for a reliable and portable stick welder, the Miller Thunderbolt 160 DC might be exactly what you need. Designed for beginners and seasoned welders alike, this machine offers powerful performance in a lightweight frame, making it ideal for home projects, farm repairs, and light industrial use. This review dives into the…
Last Updated: July 29, 2025 A lot of welders—especially weekend DIYers and small-shop folks—want more out of the gear they already own. If you’ve got a stick welder sitting in your garage and you’re curious whether it can handle TIG, you’re not alone. The answer is yes—but with a few important caveats. That said, it’s…
When you’re welding outdoors or setting up a small garage project, the last thing you want is to drag around a bulky gas cylinder. That’s where stick welding (also known as Shielded Metal Arc Welding or SMAW) shines. It doesn’t rely on bottled gas like MIG or TIG welding. Instead, it creates its own shielding…
Getting started with welding—or upgrading your setup—doesn’t mean breaking the bank or buying oversized industrial machines. ARCCAPTAIN has quickly made a name for itself by offering feature-rich welders that are compact, affordable, and beginner-friendly. Whether you’re learning the ropes in your garage or need a reliable tool for mobile repairs, these three ArcCaptain models have…
Welding steel is one of the most common tasks welders face, whether it’s for structural repairs, DIY builds, or shop work. Steel is strong, widely available, and adaptable—but picking the right technique makes all the difference in the final result. Let’s break down the best welding methods for steel and how they stack up in…
When you’re trying to choose between 6010 and 7018 welding rods, the right pick depends on more than just preference. These rods perform differently, work with different equipment, and suit different job types. Knowing what each rod is made for can help you avoid headaches, wasted material, and weak welds. Here’s a down-to-earth guide to…
If you’re working on structural welding or pressure-rated joints, choosing the right low-hydrogen rod matters. While both 7018 and 9018 are strong and dependable, they aren’t interchangeable in every scenario. Let’s break down what makes these two rods different and when to reach for one over the other. Arc Performance Is Smooth with Both Welders…
The 7018 welding rod is a staple in the welding world—well-known for its strength, clean welds, and low-hydrogen properties. Whether you’re patching up a rusty trailer or working on structural beams, this rod comes up again and again as a reliable choice. Let’s break down what those four digits actually mean and how this rod…
Getting your amperage dialed in can make or break your weld—especially when you’re working with 7018 rods. These low-hydrogen electrodes are a staple in structural work, fabrication, and general-purpose stick welding. But they only perform at their best when the amps are just right. Let’s break down the best amp ranges for different rod sizes,…