Thanks for all the support! Yeah, it really did fell like I was running it too hot so I'll give it another try this weekend. Also yes, I'll do a bead plate this weekend as well in flat position. I completely agree about being in a comfortable position. You might not always get that in real life but ...

Brand new to welding and SMAW. Lit up first few beads over the weekend and had no problems with flat and filet welds but can't seem to figure out what I'm doing wrong with my vertical up for 7018. Electrode: 1/8" Excalibur 7018 (freshly pop'd can) Amps: Tried a few settings between 118-125 Mach...

Hi, complete newbie to welding but something I've been wanting to learn for years and finally getting around to it. Not too proud of my HF Titanium 225 welder, but honestly it works and is something to learn on. We all have to start somewhere no? :D Laid down my first few beads this weekend and I'm ...