[frederick flintstone]

I stick weld almost never. I am about to put my new MIG welder into service and it has stick weld function. Without spending money I don’t have, I have my choice of 5AGW leads that are 10’ and 12’ or 6AGW leads that are 16’ and 20’ respectively. I am leaning towards the longer ones, but just thought I would ask opinions.

[Otto Nobedder]

5 gauge leads are heavier and will handle more current than 6 ga.

If you'll use them almost never, I don't suppose it matters, but when you do need them, the heavier 5 ga leads will take more abuse.

Steve S

[ldbtx]

As Otto says, 5 is bigger than 6. The 5 AWG cables will handle more current or, conversely, will handle the same current for a longer time without overheating. Since you stick weld "almost never", pick whichever one you like and if it gets hot while you're welding, either give it more time to cool off -- lower the duty cycle -- or buy larger leads. I don't foresee a big problem for you.