A photograph captures a welder using a manual arc welding rod on a rusty steel surface, with bright sparks and a partially cleaned work area.

Best Welding Rod for Rusty Metal: Top Picks That Cut Through the Crud

Rusty metal is a reality for welders—especially if you’re working outdoors, repairing older equipment, or dealing with salvaged steel. You don’t always have time (or the tools) to grind everything down to shiny bare metal. That’s where choosing the right rod really matters. Some electrodes just aren’t made for less-than-perfect surfaces. But others? They’ll power…

A photograph presents two bundles of welding electrodes—7014 rods in a yellow container on the left and 7018 rods on the right—resting on a rusted metal workbench.

7014 vs 7018 Welding Rods: Which One’s Right for Your Next Project?

When it comes to stick welding mild steel, 7014 and 7018 rods are two of the most common options you’ll run into. Each has its strengths, and the right choice depends on your setup, welding goals, and the kind of results you’re aiming for. Let’s take a closer look at how these two rods compare…

A photograph displays three aluminum TIG welding rod packs—ER5356, ER4043, and ER1100—on a metal surface with rods partially exposed.

What Filler Rod for Cast Aluminum to Use for Strong Welds

Welding cast aluminum takes more than just the right machine—it starts with the right filler rod. Castings are often old, porous, or full of unknown alloys, and that makes choosing your filler metal a critical step. Whether you’re patching up a cracked rim or rebuilding a corroded bracket, using the wrong rod can lead to…

A gloved welder holds an electrode holder with a 7018 welding rod, positioned above an open box of 7018 rods on a metal workbench with a welding machine in the background.

What 7018 Welding Rod Really Means (And Why It Matters)

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…

A high-resolution digital photograph showcases several stainless steel TIG welding filler rods for 304 stainless steel, placed on brushed metal near a smooth TIG weld bead with visible heat coloration.

Best Filler Rod for 304 Stainless Steel Welding

Welding 304 stainless steel is common in fabrication shops, repair work, and industrial projects. From food equipment to exhaust systems, 304 shows up everywhere, and using the right filler rod makes all the difference. The correct filler helps you avoid cracking, get better corrosion resistance, and lay down clean welds that last. Let’s go through…

Close-up of aluminum brazing using a low-temp rod and propane torch, with melted filler bonding two aluminum parts on a metal workbench.

Alumifix Welding Rod Review: Blue Demon’s Torch-Friendly Fix for Aluminum

Aluminum repairs don’t always need a TIG machine or spool gun. If you’re dealing with light-duty cracks, patch jobs, or small aluminum parts, low-temp brazing rods like Blue Demon’s Triple Play can make life a whole lot easier. While actual “Alumifix” rods aren’t widely available, Alumaloy offers a similar solution that’s also well-rated. But if…

A photograph captures welding action up close, focusing on a 7018 electrode creating a steady arc with visible sparks and molten metal.

Best Amperage for 7018 Welding Rod: Fine-Tune Your Settings for Cleaner Welds

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,…

Two bundles of welding rods labeled 11018 and 7018 on a scratched metal work surface.

11018 Welding Rod vs 7018: Strength, Usability, and When to Use Each

When it comes to structural stick welding, choosing the right rod isn’t just about preference—it’s about performance. Two of the most commonly compared options are 11018 and 7018. Both are low-hydrogen electrodes, but they serve different purposes depending on your project’s demands. Whether you’re building a gate, repairing heavy equipment, or welding high-strength steel, the…

Close-up comparison of 308 and 309 stainless steel welding rod packages, side-by-side on a metal workbench.

308 vs 309 Welding Rod: Choosing the Right Filler for Stainless and Mixed Metals

When you’re welding stainless steel, your choice of rod directly affects the weld’s strength, appearance, and corrosion resistance. Among the most common stainless fillers, 308 and 309 welding rods are often compared. Each one shines in specific situations depending on the metals you’re working with and the job at hand. Let’s take a closer look…