[Zeke]

Your title says "...they all suck." Simply, that is not true. You just haven't found the right welder yet. And I suspect your CL purchase for very thin metal was not a wise one.

I don't have any problems with instant on and off gas flow using my Hobart. For the first weld in a series, e.g., if the gun has been idle for awhile, I will pull the trigger for a half second and snip the wire to the correct length (a good practice for every start if you have the patience). That moves fresh gas to the nozzle and by the time the arc starts you should have ample gas coverage.

I agree with checking the gas flow to ensure that there is enough. I use flow meter gauges not just pressure regulators, the kind you see for TIG.