Buying Welder. New or used?

[Mancino]

I've been looking to buy a mig machine. I'm no expert welder. When I was younger I used my fathers Lincoln tombstone and mig machine for random car repairs. Now I just want something for odd jobs so I don't have to rely on my friend or father to do my work.

The friend I mentioned has a Hobart Handler 175 he's looking to sell. He said he'd sell me the welder, cart, and helmet for $400. He uses it often, and says it works fine. He's just looking to upgrade.

My question is; am I better off buying a new machine and piecing together everything? Or is this a decent deal for what I would use it for?

 

[thejimmy]

Sounds decent if it fits your needs, Hobart does have a 190 new at <800 that will weld up to 5/16" material so that may future proof a little better if you decide to take on more welding projects.

Buy online with discount code to save a little, no tax and free shipping

 

[Norcal]

Sounds decent if it fits your needs, Hobart does have a 190 new at <800 that will weld up to 5/16" material so that may future proof a little better if you decide to take on more welding projects.

Buy online with discount code to save a little, no tax and free shipping

The "no tax" part is pretty much gone unfortunately.

 

[finn]

I bought a heavily used Miller 175 for about that much a number of years ago. It had been used, probably in a body shop, based on the condition of the fan and liner.

While it works ok now, by the time I add the price of the new liner and consider the noisy fan that should be replaced, I regret not going new. I have a functioning but mostly obsolete welder. I mostly use my HTP 120v welder that I bought new almost forty years ago, that has been used and maintained by me personally.

 

[ArcticGabe]

I was able to find a lightly used Lincoln SP-175+ a few years back which included a 80 cu/ft tank + regulator and some misc accessories for $500. I found it on Craigs List. It's perfect for the light hobby type work that I do.

If you're not in a big hurry, you can find some deals.

Also, don't buy too big of a machine if you don't need it so you don't have to re-wire the whole shop just to power it.

 

[matt_i]

I think if you can test it and it welds reasonably well (might get the friend to demo it if your skills are still beginning) I think you are probably OK. I can't comment on the price but there are plenty of accessories (like the gloves and helmet) which add to the cost of a separate/new machine.

Hobart should be in good shape with parts and support.

 

[A**holes Garage]

If he's a friend, you will know the history, and likely not sell you a bum welder.
It's a good machine for a starter. It's a discontinued model and sold for around $500.00 back in the day. $400.00?, probably a little high, even with the helmet and cart.

 

[ransil]

I have 3 used welders no issues, get a bottle and gauges

Sent from my SM-G960U1 using Tapatalk

 

[TractorJeff]

If the used one will fit your needs, then buy it! As stated, there are many good used welders out there. Especially brand names that resell well!

 

[SP3]

https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200482227_200482227

Not endorsing any machine. Just giving an example of what you can get new.