A powerful and market established branded welder is - Hobart Handler 190 MIG Welder. It works on 230 volt at 21.5 VDC and delivers output ranging from 25 to 190 amperage. It deals with MIG and Flux core. It is best to weld steel and stainless steel and a person with low skill level can also operate it with adequate guidance he receives along with the manual.
Better control-
Seven voltage selections and infinite wire feed control makes this welder convenient for setting easy parameters. This better control is translated into better performance on arc. Also the spatter produced is minimal allowing a clean and better look of bead when the control is high.
Built in wire feeder-
Hobart Handler 190 has a built in wire feeder which accounts for a quick release in drive roll lever and quick penetration.
Dual groove drive
Hobart 500554 not only has numerous wire feed control but it has a dual groove drive rolls this feature makes it easy to switch between wire sizes.
Spool gun ready-
This MIG welder can weld aluminum smoothly with no additional settings. Manufacturer do not provide a spool gun; however in the market Spool Runner™ 100 is available to add with it and can be acquired from Amazon or home depot.
Durable
Like other welding machine from Hobart; it also has a durability feature, according to the warranty it has limited warranty of 5 years. In addition, those who bought it right after it was available in market in 2011 are claiming to use it till today without any complain, this guarantees durability over warranty period.
Scald protection
Many amateur and some deleterious welder often face unwanted accident of touching a hot wire when the welder is idle in between operation. With Hobart 500554 Handler 190 Wire Feed Welder you will not face such problem as a built-in contactor will make wire "cold" electrically, when not welding.
Pros
- Self-resetting thermal overload
- Motor protection
- Built-in gas valve
- Comes with all accessories
Cons
The accessories are not good enough-Both the power cable and the helmet it comes with are not good enough. The cable is short and helmet is not good protection.
Solution - For a garage usage the power cable is not very long. It has a 10 ft. (3 m) work cable with clamp but those who need an extended cable, need to shop for it.
An auto darkening helmet is a must for nowadays welders, the helmet that comes with this machine is a cheap one but usable. For those looking for first class protection can never really like the free helmets come along with the merchandise, so try it and if you have complains buy an auto darkening one.
FAQ
Q- Does gas fitments give an edge?
Ans - It does to those who do not need much recess during welding projects.
Q- I am no professional, I have been occasionally welding for 2-3 years now, and will this be good for my pet projects?
Ans - Yes this one is designed for Construction-Auto Body, Farm/Ranch, Rental and Home usage.
Q - What gas mix is ideal for Hobart 500554 Handler 190 Wire Feed Welder?
Ans - 70-30 mix can work great for it.
Q - What size of gauge is required
Ans-The merchandise comes with sample spool of .030 flux core wire. Two .030 contact tips are tagged too. With the sample spools one can weld 1/4" steel. With a 24 gauge one can weld as thick as 5/16 inch.
Conclusion
Welding can be some one’s passion or profession, however a little expertise in it can only save you money and help you with home improvements. So if you are considering trying it for the first time or you have a few years of experience on it - Hobart Handler 190 MIG Welder is advisable. It has proven track record, easy operating system, easy guide up for installation and required accessories with it. A superior brand name gives you the promise of good customer service and no future complaints.