Hobart Handler 125 Review

Hobart brand is a rising star in the field of welding product markets. I have tried many of their products in the past few years, and some of them were pretty excellent. My today’s topic is the Hobart Handler 125 Review, a low-budget flagship from the manufacturers. It is a great MIG welder, capable of producing stable arc and tough joints. But that is not the only advantage of this machine.

I tried to break down everything I found out about the Hobart Handler 125 by testing it in numerous ways and on different factors. Part of these tests was to compare it with another similar product, the Hobart Handler 100. You will find all that information in my review. Hopefully, it will help you.

Specifications Of Hobart Handler 125

Brand: Hobart

Model: 500573

Dimensions: 19.4” × 10” × 13.5”.

Type: MIG and Flux Core Arc.

Voltage: 115 Volts.

Amperage Output- 25 to 130 A.

Weight: 62.9 lb.

Weld Thickness: MIG 22 ga. – 1/8” and FCAW up to 3/16”

Duty Cycle: 20% at 90A.

Usability

When using this welding machine, I found many similarities between this one and its 100A counterpart. You can go for both MIG or flux core with this machine. When trying the MIG welding, I could weld up to 1/8 inches. That is great for people who need to weld thick metals in their projects. The flux core welding process does not require additional gases. So, I could use it outside. It provided the welding outcome I expected.

The machine got a detailed yet simple control panel, consisting of two large knobs for amp and voltage control. There is an on-off button too. While the design of Hobart 125 was identical to Hobart Handler 100, the latter could not weld some thick metals that the former could.

Power

I am happy with the power output of Hobart Handler 125. The main reason behind that is how you can adjust the necessary amp with ease. Unlike many low-cost welders that vaguely explain their set-up process, Hobart 125 elaborated everything in-depth in their manual. As a result, hooking up the wire feed and operating the device became a piece of cake for everyone. The amp range of this machine is from 25 to 130, enough for most applications.

You can connect the machine from your household outlet as it supports 110V power supplies. And with that low power supply, you can weld even automobile, metal sheets, or DIY workpieces. The machine has a duty cycle of 20% at 90A.

Mobility

Sadly, the transportation part is where this welding device has a huge negative point. As it weighs 62.9 lbs., it will be pretty hard to carry it around for a long time. Well, the steady handle is there to help you in the transportation, but I wish there were two of them. That way, you could use a helping hand.

Compared to this, the Hobart Handler 100 weighs only 44 lbs. But the 125-version balanced that out by providing a higher amp setting option. I should also mention that some more expensive welders from Hobart weigh even much than Hobart 125. So, they are best to transport using a vehicle.

Price

I am glad that Hobart 125 does not cost so much higher than the 100A version. Many other Hobart products, including Hobart 140A, are just slightly improved but costs so high. But you can find Hobart 125 at a rate lower than $500.

Another good thing is that this product comes with a wire feed, an electrode holder, and a torch cable. So, you won’t waste extra money behind them. Additionally, you will get a 1-year manufactures warranty for parts.

Pros

Cons

Why Should You Get This?

If you need to weld mild steel or other steel-type metals on a daily basis, then Hobart 125 will surely benefit you. As a great flux core welder, you will be free to use it outdoor. Honestly, the device is a perfect item for its price.

Also, since you can understand everything from the manual, it is the best product for a novice. Needless to say, experts will love Hobart 125 too. By the way, after comparing it with Hobart 100, this one is my pick for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Must I Use This Welder with Gas?

Hobart 125 is suitable for both MIG and flux core welding. So, you can use it with or without gas, depending on your welding method.

Can I Weld Cast Iron with It?

You can, but it will be hard to weld cast iron using this device.

What Is the Difference Between MIG and Flux Core Welding?

The difference is the wire type. Also, you will need additional gas for MIG that you won’t for flux core.

Final Note

Hobart’s technology is excellent in many ways. One of them will be how the overheat protection auto shuts the machine down after every 2 minutes of usage on 90A. As you can go for thicker metals using this item, I prefer this one more than the Hobart 100.

But you can check the other one out as well. If you are looking for something heavy-duty, try Hobart 140 or Hobart 190. However, if you are a beginner, I think the 125-version should be your go-to.