I got my Hobart Handler 135 from Northern tools on the 6 mo. plan, no tax/interest/or shipping. For what I will use it for it works fine, a buddy of mine has a 230 amp mig if I need anything larger(welding to the frame, etc.).

Miller, hands down..they worl forever.. Next, would be my OLD lincoln stick welder..and I mean old...still works.

Chase

licoln and miller,,,but miller cost less.

I have the Hobart 175. Love it for my needs. I have installed the chevy rears and am getting ready to do rears up front with crossover. I am not disappointed in it at all. A Miller 210 would have been nice, I won't deny that. But the Hobart 175 works great. I think I would be kicking myself by now if I had bought a 135 series Miller or Hobart. I'm not a professional welder by any means, but the Hobart is eaaaasy to use in my opinion.

Hobart was bought out by Miller. Almost all parts are interchangeable between the Miller and Hobarts.

I think the Hobart 175 would be great especially if you have also have a standard stick welder. I used a borrowed Hobart 135 for about 6 months and was pretty pleased with it..

But when it comes to working with heavy 1/4" thickness or say 3/16" joints with lots of metal in the joint to be heated to guarantee deep penetration, or when out of position vertical welding is needed, I find it hard to beat DC stick welding.

The MIG really shines on the 3/16 and smaller metal and where you really want a nice looking joint.. Also less warping and pulling on the thinner gauge steels and no burn through on sheet metal due to the excellent finess on the heat control..