15 Highest Rated Welding Tools for Beginners – 2022 Reviews

Last Updated on May 2022

Are you a metal construction professional or a hobbyist looking to start up in this diverse industry? In addition to a welding machine, you will need equipment specifically designed to give your projects a professional touch.

Without the right instruments, you will have an impossible task clamping workpieces down, making accurate measurements, and making precision cuts in hardy materials. One of your first challenges as a metal enthusiast is to find high-quality products that get the job done and suit your budget.

There is a wide selection of hardware available, so it may be challenging to know whether you are choosing the right tools for the job. In our quest for excellence in all things metal, we have done extensive research in the industry and read through hundreds of reviews to help you find the best welding equipment for beginners. Among other useful gadgets, our search included hammers, cutters, pliers, and measuring equipment.

If you want to build a comprehensive selection of quality instruments for your workshop, keep reading.

Best Welding Tools for Beginners

What are Welding Tools?

When you carry out welding projects, your objective is to fuse metals in a particular manner, to form one solid object. As a beginner welder, you will need a basic set of tools to weld metals quickly, neatly, and safely.

Standard supplies consist of a welding machine, safety equipment such as a welding helmet, mask, gloves, and other accessories like clamps, hammers, adjustable wrenches, and MIG pliers. Additional gear includes cutting equipment such as handheld grinders, chop saws, and cutting torches.

As a beginner welder, you also need measuring equipment. The most common measuring devices include a tape measure and a metal scribe, gauge, and file. Most welders also have speed squares for measuring necessary angles.

You also need equipment to maintain, clean, and store your gear. In this guide, we will provide you with a detailed discussion of all the essential tools you need to get started with your projects.

welding gloves and welding helmet on the floor

Why Welding Accessories are Necessary

Without tools, joining metal seamlessly is not possible. To ensure a clean and robust weld, you have to prepare the metal properly. Metal preparation involves, among other things, measuring, cutting, and cleaning. Before you start welding, you also need to ensure metals are firmly in place to prevent shifting.

Mill scale, inaccurate cutting lines, and shifting metal pieces can result in a welding process that yields undesirable results or that are lacking in terms of appearance and strength.

In addition to achieving the best possible results, welding instruments are also necessary for optimal convenience and efficient use of time. If you cut a thick piece of metal, for example, a chop saw can eliminate a lot of frustration.

Some welders also require tools like consumable electrodes and ground clamps to work. If you don’t have these accessories, you will not be able to carry out basic procedures.

Top 15 Must-Have Instruments

Welding Hammers

Specifications

  • High carbon steel chipping hammer for maximum strength.
  • Shockproof handle with loop for belt.
  • Tempered chisel on one end and point on the other.
  • Easy to clean and remove welding spatter from all your welds.
  • The head is welded all round at the joint to handle shaft for prevent it coming loose.

Welding hammers are essential accessories for chipping away slab-coating to reveal the weld. The VASTOOLS high-carbon steel chipping hammer has a spring handle to absorb shocks. It features a 1 and 1/16-inch tempered chisel and a point for cleaning slag and debris from any surface.

Many reviewers are pleased with this hammer’s long lifespan and the wire scratch brush that comes with it. To some buyers, the hammer is somewhat small, but, if you are a beginner, it may be ideal for your initial projects.

Pros

  • Spring handle for shock absorption
  • Durable construction
  • Tempered chisel and point for added versatility

Cons

  • It may be too small for some applications

MIG Pliers

Specifications

  • Specially designed nose for efficient removal of spatter
  • Induction-hardened cutting edge stays sharp longer
  • Hammer designed for light welding gun maintenance
  • Spring-loaded for ease of use
  • Dipped grips for superior comfort
  • Irwin Vise-Grip lifetime guarantee
  • Induction-hardened cutting edge stays sharp longer
Product image of IRWIN VISE-GRIP MIG Pliers, 8-Inch

As a beginner, you may use MIG welding as it is the most straightforward process to learn. The 8-inch MIG pliers from Irwin Tools are an essential piece of equipment. They can be used to safely remove the hot nozzle from your gun, to remove the contact tip where the wire comes out of your gun, and to clip your wire at the correct stick-out measurement.

People who own this product like its durability and usability. The jaw spring may be too long for the pliers to close, but you can easily cut it to the appropriate length.

Pros

  • High-quality pliers
  • Easy to use
  • Prevents burns when removing a hot nozzle

Cons

  • Jaw spring may be too long

Adjustable Wrenches

Specifications

  • Extra Wide opening to 1-1/2″
  • Longer jaws, thinner jaws give greater access in tight spaces.
  • 4 thread knurl and non-protruding jaws provide greater capacity
  • Precise jaw design grips tight the first time
  • Measurement scales (in. on front mm. on reverse)
  • Chrome Vanadium steel construction
  • Code Blue grips are designed for durability and comfort
Product image of Channellock adjustable wrench

The Channellock adjustable wrench is the perfect tool for tightening the regulator of a gas welder and prying metal apart. This wrench can open to 1.5 inches, and the jaws are thin for access to small openings.

People who bought this wrench were pleased with its wide opening adjustment and non-slip feel. On the downside, it was a bit heavy, but because of its weight, you don’t need to exert a lot of force to turn a bolt.

Pros

  • Smooth adjustment
  • Wide jaw opening
  • Comfortable grip

Cons

  • A bit on the heavy side

Clamps

Specifications

  • Pack of 6 11″ C-clamp locking pliers
  • 3.25” Opening capacity jaws
  • Constructed from high-grade heated alloy steel
  • Swivel pad to adjust to surfaces while avoiding damage
  • Satisfaction guaranteed
product image of ION TOOL 6 Pack - 11” C-Clamp

Clamps are essential to hold your workpieces together and prevent warpage from pushing them out of position. Ion Tool’s six-pack welding clamps are specifically designed to make your life as a beginner welder easier. It features a 3.25-inch jaw opening capacity and swivel pads that make surface adjustments possible without damage to your welding tables or other surfaces.

Reviewers were vocal about the strength and adjustability of these clamps. While they are not suitable for industrial applications, you will be able to derive optimal use from them as beginner welder.

Pros

  • Swivel pads for a lower profile
  • Wide 3.25-inch opening
  • Made from heated alloy steel
  • Incredible strength

Cons

  • Not suitable for industrial applications

Handheld Grinders

Specifications

  • 6A motor
  • 3 Grinding Abrasive Wheels
  • 3 Cutting Abrasive Wheels
  • Protective guard
  • Multiple locations to install the auxiliary handle
  • Spindle lock for quicker
  • Quick and easy wheel changes
  • Small size grip for reduced fatigue
  • This angle grinder is coated to protect the tool from abrasive debris
Product image of Meterk Electric Angle Grinder

A handheld grinder is a versatile and essential part of the beginner’s welding supplies. The Meterk electric angle grinder has a 6A motor with 750 watts of output power. Beginner welders who have been using this model are vocal about its ability to cut, grind, and sand workpieces to perfection.

Meterk electric angle grinders sport a relatively high price for hand tools, but you can rest assured they will provide many years of grinding and precision work.

Pros

  • Powerful handheld grinder
  • Suitable for all metal construction projects
  • Durable, long-lasting construction

Cons

  • Expensive

Chop Saws or Portabands

Specifications

  • 15 Amp, 3,800 RPM motor with replaceable brushes
  • Quick-release material clamp
  • Cutting fence with miter adjustment
  • Heavy-duty steel base for stability
  • Spark deflector
Product image of Porter-Cable PCE700

A portable bandsaw is a perfect tool for quickly cutting metal pieces in uniform lengths. The Porter-Cable PCE700 is an excellent option for beginners with its powerful 15 Amp, 3,800 RPM motor, and quick-release material clamp.

This Portaband saw features a heavy-duty steel base and spark deflector for added safety. The saw also features a cutting fence with a miter adjustment so you can make angled cuts up to 45-degrees. With the quick-release spindle lock, you can quickly and easily replace the blade, too.

Reviewers liked the saw’s usability and the precision of its cuts, but some were not pleased with the quality of the 14-inch blade that was included. You can quickly remedy this issue, though, by replacing the blade.

Pros

  • Powerful motor
  • Precision cutting
  • Durable construction
  • Angled cuts up to 45 degrees

Cons

  • The 14-inch blade included is inferior quality

Die Grinders

Specifications

  • Compact, lightweight design for easy maneuverability
  • Lock-off throttle to prevent accidental start-up
  • 90-degree angled head allows flexibility in tight quarters
  • 1/4-Inch Collet
  • Extremely popular tool
Product image of Chicago Pneumatic CP875

Die grinders are must-have tools for precision beveling and featuring. The CP875 from Chicago Pneumatic features a ¼-inch collet and a 90-degree angle head for enhanced flexibility in small spaces.

This die grinder has a compact design, and it is lightweight to allow for enhanced maneuverability. The grinder also features a lock-off throttle to prevent it from accidentally starting up.

This grinder’s popularity is mainly due to its superior grinding abilities. The grinder discharges air to the front, which may be a problem if you prefer rear-air discharge. If this doesn’t bother you, however, it is the ideal die grinder.

Pros

  • Ample maneuverability
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Powerful air die grinder

Cons

  • Front air discharge

Sawzall Saw

Specifications

  • 12-amp motor; 0-2,900 strokes per minute with a 1-1/8″ stroke length
  • Variable speed trigger for speed control
  • 4-position blade clamp allows for flush cutting
  • Keyless lever-action blade clamp
  • Tool Length 17.5 inches
Product image of Dewalt DWE305 Reciprocating Saw

A Sawzall is a perfect tool for cutting surfaces that are difficult to reach with a portable bandsaw. The Dewalt DWE305 Reciprocating Saw has a powerful 12-amp motor that can reach up to 2,900 strokes per minute, as well as a variable trigger for speed control.

The DWE305 is suitable for DIY construction projects as well as heavy-duty applications, and it is fitted with a four-position blade clamp for flush cutting. According to reviews, this saw is highly durable and easy to use.

Pros

  • Versatile with a four-position blade clamp
  • Suitable for industrial applications
  • Powerful motor

Cons

  • Slightly heavier than normal

Cutting Torches

Specifications

  • WH411C Torch Handle with Built-in Check Valves
  • CA411-3 Cutting Attachment
  • 0-3-101 Cutting Tip
  • 0-UM-350 Brazing Tip
  • 20′ x 3/16″ Grade R Torch Hose, Goggles and Striker
Product image of Victor Torch Kit Cutting Set

If you are a beginner welder, a cutting torch is a viable alternative to plasma cutters. The cutting torch set from Victor offers a wide range of high-end features for easy light metal preparation, including a torch handle with built-in check valves and a cutting attachment. With the kit, you will also receive a CA411-3 cutting attachment, a torch hose, goggles, and a striker.

According to people who have been using it, this kit is durable, practical, and easy to use. The kit may not be suitable for commercial projects, but it is ideal for beginners.

Pros

  • Complete cutting torch kit
  • Affordable
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • Not suitable for cutting thick steel

Metal Fabrication Measuring Gadgets

Tape Measure

Specifications

  • Magnetic dual-end hook allows for easier one person measurement
  • Double-sided printing provides precise marking and line drawing
  • Impact-resistant rubberized case protects end hook and button
  • Nylon coated blade for maximum durability
Product image of Komelon 7125IE

During metal construction, measurements are crucial to the success of the final project. The best tool for this is a tape measure. Komelon’s 7125IE measuring tape features everything you need as a beginner welder, including a magnetic dual-end hook, double-sided printing, and an impact-resistant rubberized case.

Reviewers like the magnetic hook as it allows you to take measurements without the help of another person. One issue with this tape is that it is possible to overextend it. To prevent this, it has a printed warning near the end.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Double-sized measuring tape
  • Magnetic hook

Cons

  • No stopping point at the end of the measures

Speed Square

Specifications

  • Quickly, easily, and confidently sets to all positions shown
  • Fasteners will never rust
  • Die-cut and highlighted markings
  • Folds up and stores in your back pocket
Product image of OmniSquare Folding Layout Square

A speed square is a handy tool for quickly measuring and marking angled cuts in your workpieces. The folding layout square from Omni Tool Works Inc. allows you to mark all angled cuts. The blade is foldable, small enough to fit in your back pocket, and it clicks into place at 45- and 90-degrees.

The blades are made from anodized aluminum and stainless steel to prevent corrosion. It also features cut and highlighted markings.

Pros

  • Foldable with a compact profile
  • Clicks at 90- and 45-degrees
  • Fits easily into a pocket or a tool belt

Cons

  • Too short for some applications

Metal Scribe

Specifications

  • Sturdy Construction Made to Last
  • Simple and Comfort to Use
  • Easy to Carry and Store
  • 2 Free Replacement Tungsten Carbide Tips
  • Scriber Material: Aluminum, Tungsten Carbide, Magnet
Product image of IMT Tungsten Carbide Tip Scriber

During a project, you have to make clear marks on your metal workpieces. With IMT’s scriber, you can make legible marks on both stainless and hard steel. The scribe features a tungsten carbide tip and an aluminum tip that is highly durable, and reversible when not in use.

Many reviewers also like the fitted magnet that can pick up small metal pieces from hard-to-reach places.

Pros

  • Handy etching tool
  • Suitable for making marks on all metal surfaces
  • Features a magnet for picking up tiny metal pieces

Cons

  • The volley that holds the tip tends to be loose

Metal Gauge

Specifications

  • Not easy to deform, strong and durable
  • Quickly and accurately check the specifications of the rod and wire
  • 0-36 gauge, for slices, plates, and wires
  • The decimal equivalent of a reverse display inches.
  • Material: Stainless steel
  • Size: 85*85*2mm
Product image of OSOF Stainless Steel Welding Gauge

A metal gauge is a tool you use to determine the thickness of the metal so you can change the welding settings accordingly. These gauge tools from OSOF have openings of different sizes. To determine the thickness of the sheet metal, slide the openings over your workpiece and take a reading.

Steel construction workers find this tool handy, especially when they have a lot of metal sheets lying around, and they need to keep track of the measurements.

Pros

  • Easy way to determine metal thickness
  • Measures up to 0.35 inches thick
  • Suitable for measuring paper, leather, and wood as well

Cons

Metal File

Specifications

  • Long lasting teeth
  • Extra durable –  higher carbon content and tempering
  • Shapes, sharpens, and de-burrs hobby models, jewelry, wood, & soft metal. Especially for woodworking and metalwork enthusiasts, including gunsmiths or hobby modeling
  • Nonslip handle construction
  • 365-day money-back guarantee
product image of nine-piece metal file set from Innovant Tools

After cutting a workpiece, you may see metal burrs that can impact the quality of your weld. The easiest way to get rid of these imperfections is by using a metal file. This nine-piece metal file set from Innovant Tools is made of premium high-carbon hardened steel and presents a viable option.

People who use this kit like the non-slip handle and the long-lasting teeth. The only drawback of these files is the steep price. However, you won’t have to buy new files for a few years.

Pros

  • Long-lasting teeth
  • Suitable for removing metal burrs
  • Made from premium hardened steel

Cons

  • High price tag

Welding Gear Care

Storage

To ensure the gear has the longest possible life expectancy, you must take proper care when storing it. If your equipment is exposed to moisture or heat, it can result in corrosion. You also don’t want a heavyweight object lying on top of things like hoses or rods.

Unplug all your connections during storage, especially if you have a machine connected to AC or DC. To eliminate the risk of leaks, check the valves in your tanks to make sure they are switched off and fully closed.

Tools like gauges, files, pliers, cutting torches, and tape measures should be locked inside a toolbox to prevent theft and the accumulation of dust. Store your rods in an upright position in a waterproof container and keep the different rod types separate (so you don’t accidentally use the wrong process).

In storage, hoses should be loosely coiled and free of knots and kinks to prevent damage.

Maintenance

The best way to prolong the life expectancy and functionality of your equipment is to establish a routine maintenance schedule. Maintenance involves weekly, monthly, and yearly servicing that includes cleaning, the application of grease, and the replacement of tips and nozzles.

Clean your tools weekly with compressed air, especially if you also do woodworking in your shop. If you live in a humid climate, inspect all pliers, cutters, and other devices once a month for corrosion. If you notice traces of rust, apply a primer containing phosphoric acid that reacts with the rust to form iron sulfate (which is dark blue and resistant to the development of iron oxide).

The best way to maintain your gear is by using it in accordance with its specifications. Stick to the recommended processes, consumables, and projects. Also, store your accessories correctly to prevent damage.

tools stored on the wall

In Conclusion: The Best Welding Tools for Beginners

Tools are essential to beginner welders who want to achieve a neat and robust weld, save time, and ensure optimal accuracy. When shopping for gear, don’t compromise on quality, even if you have to pay a premium. Over time, high-quality equipment tends to be the most cost-effective, as well.

Proper accessories are essential to ensure safety in the workshop. You don’t want a workpiece to jump loose, for example, while you are busy cutting it. Items like clamps and pliers can contribute in terms of convenience, but these tools also prevent personal injury as the result of flying objects and potentially severe burns.

Amazon is widely regarded to be the best place to shop for and buy welding equipment. Most stores deliver within two days, and the platform offers complete transparency in terms of seller service, product quality, smooth customer service interactions, and easy buying experience. The prices on Amazon are typically more affordable, too, as these sellers’ input costs per unit are generally lower than brick-and-mortar businesses.


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