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The Forney Easy Weld 100 ST (item 298) is a 120V, 90 amp stick welder that weighs roughly 10 lb. It is worth considering if you want a plug-into-the-wall welder for light mild-steel repairs, gates, brackets and learning stick welding, and the listing also mentions TIG capability. Skip it if you need to weld aluminum, thick plate, or run long continuous beads.
This Forney 298 Easy Weld 100 ST review uses the Amazon listing and retailer specifications, not hands-on testing. Always check the current listing for what is included.
Quick specs at a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | Forney Easy Weld 100 ST, item 298 |
| Input | 120V, single phase |
| Output | 90 A maximum (retailer data) |
| Duty cycle | 30% per retailer data; confirm in the manual |
| Weight | About 10 lb (retailer data lists about 9.65 lb) |
| Metal thickness (retailer) | Mild steel up to 1/4 in |
| Process | Stick; listing also mentions TIG (needs separate torch, regulator and argon) |
| Shielding gas | Not needed for stick welding |
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What the Forney 298 is and who it suits
It is an entry-level stick welder from a long-established American welding brand. The compact case and 120V input make it practical for garages, farms and apartments with a standard outlet.
- Good for: first-time stick welders, light repairs on mild steel, fence and gate fixes, quick on-site jobs.
- Less suited to: thick structural work, aluminum, or anyone expecting a high duty cycle.
Weights quoted online vary a little (about 10 lb for the unit, and some places list roughly 13.7 lb, which may be a shipping figure). Check the listing if weight matters to you.
Understanding the 90 A and 30% duty cycle
A 30% duty cycle means that in a ten-minute window you can weld about three minutes at the rated current, then the machine needs to cool. At lower settings you can weld longer. For 1/8 in rods at the top of the machine’s range, expect short beads and frequent rests.
Because the output is limited by a household circuit, plan on 3/32 or 1/8 in rods and thinner steel. Multi-pass welding on 1/4 in material is possible in principle but slow and demanding for a machine this size.
How to check it fits your setup
- Outlet and breaker: A 120V welder like this draws a lot of current. Use a dedicated circuit of the size the manual specifies. Do not share with a space heater or compressor.
- Extension cords: Avoid them if you can. If you must, use a short, heavy-gauge cord. Check the cord gauge and length against the manual, and see our extension cord review for general cord considerations (that cord is a different plug type).
- Rods: Check the manual for the largest rod size. Easy rods include E6013; E6011 and E7018 work depending on the machine.
- Accessories: Verify the cable lengths and clamp quality on the listing; some descriptions mention an 8 ft electrode holder and ground clamp, but confirm the current package.
- TIG: The TIG torch, regulator and argon are generally sold separately.
- Warranty: Some descriptions cite a 12-month warranty; confirm the exact terms on the listing or Forney’s site.
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Pros and limitations
Pros
- Light, compact, and easy to store.
- Standard 120V plug.
- No shielding gas needed for stick.
- Known brand with accessible support.
Limitations
- Low duty cycle at maximum output.
- Not for aluminum. Stick or this machine’s DC TIG cannot weld aluminum.
- Limited to thinner steel and smaller rods.
- Cheaper cables and clamps may be worth upgrading.
Tips for using it safely and well
- Wear an auto-darkening helmet, leather gloves and flame-resistant clothing; helmets are not included.
- Clean the work, attach the ground clamp close to the weld, and keep rods dry.
- Start around the middle of the rod’s suggested range and adjust for bead shape.
- Let the machine rest when it overheats instead of forcing it.
- Clear flammables; slag and spatter can start fires.
Alternatives and related guides
- Forney Easy Weld 140 MP review: a step up if you want a MIG-capable Forney
- ESAB HandyArc 18 stick welder review: another entry-level branded stick welder
- E6013 welding rod review: a good beginner rod for this machine
- Lincoln welding gloves review: hand protection for stick work
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duty cycle of the Forney Easy Weld 100 ST?
Retailer data lists a 30% duty cycle, meaning about three minutes of welding per ten at the rated current. Lower settings allow longer welding. Check the manual for the exact table for your unit.
Can the Forney 298 weld aluminum?
No. It is meant for mild steel, with DC stick and lift TIG per the listing. Aluminum needs AC TIG or MIG with a spool gun and argon, so use equipment designed for aluminum.
Does the Forney 298 need shielding gas?
Not for stick welding, since the rod coating makes the shielding. You only need argon if you add a TIG torch and use the TIG function. Wind is less of a problem for stick than for gas-shielded MIG.
What thickness can a Forney 100 ST weld?
Retailer data states mild steel up to 1/4 in. In practice, expect good results on thinner material and multiple passes on thick pieces, with rest periods because of the duty cycle.
Final verdict
The Forney 298 Easy Weld 100 ST is a straightforward 120V stick welder for light steel work and learning. Confirm the included accessories, warranty and your outlet capacity on the listing, and keep expectations in line with its 90 A and duty-cycle limits.
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