The Forney Easy Weld 299 is a great machine to learn MIG welding with. The word ‘easy’ is in the name, after all. It may not perform like a 220v Miller or Lincoln, but it is a great value for a beginner MIG welder.
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Before purchasing your first machine or a beginner machine like this one, it is important that you understand the scope of its capabilities, the pros, the cons, and the company’s warranty policies.
This article will walk you through the details to help you make an informed decision about the flux core welder, Forney Easy Weld 299.
What Is The Forney Easy Weld 299 Best For?
The Forney Easy Weld 299 can handle up to a quarter inch and run 10 lbs spools. Its capacity, coupled with its portability (weighing in at only 14 lbs), makes this the perfect on-the-go machine.
Even if you are a seasoned welder you might want this affordable machine for around the home garage or to take with you on the go.
It can help you weld in tight spaces and work without gas for automotive repair and other “off the grid” jobs. Having this little machine handy for DIY car maintenance or home metalworking projects can offer added convenience to your hobby welding.
The “plug and play” machine is best for learning how to MIG weld, on-the-go projects, or hobbyist/DIY welding.
Forney Easy Weld 299 Pros
Highly Portable
The machine is only 14 pounds and can be used for flux core, so you even have the ability to move without worrying about gas.
You can transport the machine from the home garage to the shop and back with virtual ease.
You can bring it into tight spaces for quick repairs.It comes equipped with a 6-foot power cord, which at least allows a little flexibility before needing an extension cord.
Great For Beginners
All you have to do is plug in this machine to get started. It is as convenient for experienced welders as it is for the welding novice. This is a great first MIG machine for those just getting started.
Spool Storage Galore
There is storage for multiple wire spool options. You can have 2lb flux wire or 10 lb flux wire locked and loaded. The machine comes with a free 2lb spool to get you started the day you unbox.
Strong Enough For Steel
The machine might be small, but it is mighty enough to weld stainless steel. It is durable enough for heavier applications than it may appear.
This makes it easy for beginners to weld heavy-duty materials without the experience.
Again, you'll like this flux-core welder for:
- its ease of use
- great spool storage
- powerful enough to weld heavier materials/metals
Forney Easy Weld 299 Cons
Only Two Power Settings
The machine is limited to two amperage settings - for sheet metal or metal plate. This can create some amperage issues that prevent penetration on thicker-gauged metal.
This won’t get the beginners down, but more experienced users may be bothered by this.
Short Wire Feeder
The wire feeder is not very long. This can be taken into account and if you prepare for this in advance it can be a non-issue. The workpiece ground wires are also a bit on the shorter side.
Cons summed up:
- only 2 power settings (not much control)
- short wire feeder
Warranty Information
There is a 6-month warranty that becomes effective starting on the date of purchase. The company will repair/replace machine parts that are not working or have broken due to defects in the machine’s original manufacturing.
Claims for the warranty have to be made within 90 days of purchasing and proof of purchase is needed to make this claim. The warranty doesn’t cover any damage caused by the consumer due to misuse, accident, or negligence.
As a big brand Forney has decent support. Unlike smaller brands they'll actually get back to you, even if it takes a day.
Flux Core Tips from Miller
Conclusion
If you are in the market for a machine to learn on or a highly portable machine for home projects or travel, the Forney 299 is a great value welder.
It is portable, durable, and versatile enough for most MIG welding projects under 24 gauge or ¼ inch. This machine model can help you get the hang of MIG welding from the comfort of your garage.
