As far as I know, Miller now makes Hobart. Yes the Millers have a good reputation in industry, but actually so do the Hobarts. It is hard to go wrong with a Lincoln, but for the money, the Hobarts are not bad. I have a Handler 135, in hindsight, I should have gotten the 175, but the 135 has worked quite well for me. On thicker material I just have to multipass. But most of the time for thick stuff, I just run the buzz box. I think that everyone should learn to weld with a torch or a stick, it gives you a better understanding of puddle control. I have seen too many MIG welds that looked great but had absolutely no fusion. By learning the with the torch or a stick you really get a feel for a what a good weld puddle looks like. With a wire feed it is way too easy to squirt out a puddle of wire that looks really pretty but joined nothing. That being said, it really is hard to go wrong with a Miller. If money were no object, I would have a nice big Millermatic, but for now the hobart will do. For a welder on a budget the hobarts are just fine. And I think most hobby guys are on a budget, so why spend the money when you can get a decent machine for less money that will do everything you need. Whatever you get, be sure to take the time to learn to use it properly. You don't want to weld winch mounts and suspension hangers and have them come off at inopportune times, because of crappy welds. If you are not confident in your ability to make a safe weld, be sure to defer to someone who can.