[FastDave]

Quote: Miller and Hobart are the same and other than Lincoln, the only way to go. Anything less is money wasted. The Miller 175/Hobart 180 is ideal for a garage welder as mentioned above but maybe a bit more than you need. You want something that will make welding easier-cheap welders make it more difficult. Get a Hobart Handler 140 or the equilvelent Miller. They can be had for under $500 and are very portable 120v units. Get Argon gas shielding-flux core sucks and is very annoying.

I agree 100%. My Hobart rep said he could not tell me the difference between the Miller 175 & Hobart 175. He couldn't say they are the same but couldn't define the difference either. Both require 220V. I personally own the Hobart 135 Handler - retails for about $425 and comes with the gas bottle attachments. It's a great machine and very versatile since it's a 115V.

I have a new Hobart 250 mig for sale $1200 if you're interested.