Flux core no gas VS solid wire and gas

[500sks]

I have just bought a Hobart Handler 210 and am looking at what I should run for wire. I used to do a lot of welding but we used Flux core wire that used 100% CO2. I plan to use the welder for repairs and small projects. Can someone give me reasons that I should go one way or the other?
Thanks

[bluesparks]

Solid core with gas gives you a cleaner weld with less spatter. Less prep if you need a neat appearance or are planning on painting it later.

Flux core burns hotter, and as such penetrates better. Good on thick metal, but causes burn through a lot easier on thinner stuff.

If all you're doing is sticking two pieces of metal together and don't care what it looks like as long as it's functional, flux core will do the job just great.

Flux core is also a much better choice when welding outside, since wind will blow the gas away from the weld.

[Graham Brown]

If you are welding outside in the wind you might waant to use flux core. I bought one last thursday and welded some with fluxcore and it looks so good, I might not get gas yet. Try it out. I'm sure you will want gas later.

[500sks]

Lincoln 212 wire

I can get a pretty decent price on Lincoln 212 flux core wire .035 does anybody have a problem with the Lincoln wire?

[bluesparks]

Nothing wrong with Lincoln wire, I'm sure. But depending on what you're wanting to weld, .035" might be on the thick side.

[500sks]

what wire size do you recommend for general purpose welding?

[hogan]

500sks,
To best answer your question I think we need to know a few things first. 1) where is welding performed? indoor at a shop or outside. 2) what position do you intend to weld in? all flat and horiz or in all positions? 3) you mention small projects and repair. could you give a max thickness of material you plan to weld?

[500sks]

Hogan Here you go.
1. In a shop I really don't think I will be outside.
2. I think most welding will be flat with some all positions
3. The thickest would be material to build a trailer. probably 1/4 or so.
With some welding in the 12ga range.
4. The wire that I found was Lincoln NR-211 MP

[hogan]

500sks,
For FCAW-G the I would suggest either:

Hobar excel arc 71

http://www.hobartbrothers.com/pdf/datasheets/Excel_Arc71.pdf

ESAB 7100 ultra

http://products.esabna.com/EN/home/filler_metals_catalog/filler_metals_product_detail/q/display_id.id4367f2a95eab09.80331147/category_id.665/path.filler_metals_cored_wire_carbon_low_alloy_steel_carbon_steel_gasshielded_flux_core_dual_shield_7100_ultra_71t1t9

or here is a list of lincon electrodes that you can choose from (Mild Steel Flux-Cored Wires - All Position)
http://www.mylincolnelectric.com/Catalog/consumableseries.aspx?browse=104|13275|