Review: Forney 299 Flux Core 125 Amp Welder

If you’ve never been a fan of MIG welding, but you like the idea of flux core welding, then you’re often stuck purchasing a welder that does more than you really need. That’s why this particular welder is a solid option to consider if you’re looking for an easy way to add welding to your DIY skills. The Forney 299 Flux Core 125-Amp Welder will only accommodate gasless flux core welding only.

As a unit, it accepts 2-pound and 10- pound spools. It works off of a 120-volt input, providing a 125-amp output. The welder does an excellent job welding materials that are as thin as 24-gauge or up to ¼-inch thick. It only accepts .030 wire and is supported by a 6-month warranty.

Features Includes with the Forney 299 Flux Core Welder

• It offers a large storage area along the side of the welder, allowing you to make sure your wire rolls are at the ready whenever you need to start welding.
• The Tweco-style gun is simple and easy to use, though this is an A/C only welder.
• The duty cycle is 20% at 125 amps, so it offers enough strength to work on steel or stainless steel with relative ease.
• You have multiple feed rates from which to choose on the settings of the welder, as well as different metal settings, allowing you to customize the arc that is produced.

Although it isn’t rated for these metals, we found that the Forney 299 Flux Core Welder does a decent job with aluminum and copper. You’ll need to work with the ground and get it close to your arc to prevent excessive splatter, but we had no problem using this unit at all.

Tips for Using the Forney 299 Flux Core Welder

We found the beads that are produced by this welder tend to be a bit on the cold side. Welds are easier to produce if you tack your joints, then alternative back and forth with further tacking. Then fill in the missing spots, grind it clean, and bevel the edges.

Take your time when using this welder as well. We found the penetration tends to be a little iffy if you’re trying to move too quickly. For the thicker pieces that you’re welding, you may wish to pre-heat them just a little for better results, even though this welder is rated to handle them on its own.

Make sure you grab some wire with this welder. You’ll go through what comes with the welder in the first few minutes of using it.

Our Bottom Line: Although it is more of a welder for beginners, someone who is familiar with welding processes will find a variety of uses with this equipment. Although the weld beads do have a tendency to be a little cold and penetration can be a little questionable, this welder will help to refine the skills of rookies and be a fun piece of equipment to have if you’re a veteran. It is definitely worth its price.

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See the best flux core welders on the market first before deciding on which brand and model to purchase for your welding projects.