Skip to content

Free Gift Card Details

$100 Order
$10
gift card
$250 Order
$25
gift card
$500 Order
$50
gift card
$1000 Order
$100
gift card
  • The promotion will be automatically applied on the Shopping Cart page.
  • To qualify for this offer, your order subtotal must equal $100 or more. Excludes gift cards, free item offers, warranties, Advantage memberships, tax and shipping.
  • Free gift cards will be issued in the form of e-gift cards only, not physical gift cards.
  • E-gift cards will be sent to the email address used in your billing address when your order ships or is picked up.
  • Free e-gift cards expire 10/01/26.
  • Promo code not valid on prior purchases or on Honda and STIHL products and cannot be combined with other promotional offers.
  • Valid online and in participating retail stores.
  • Limited-time offer. Subject to change without notice.

Buyers' Guide to Student Welding Equipment

We are proud to support the next generation of skilled trades workers with the gear needed to kickstart their career. In the list below, shop welding equipment we recommend for every student welder as they enter their certification programs. The Northern Tools for the Trades program offers professional instruction and expertise along with the donation of professional-grade tools and monetary support to schools, encouraging students and instructors in their pursuit of technical education and career opportunities in the skilled trades workforce.

tools for the trades

Welding Gear Students Need

MIG Welders

MIG welders use a consumable wire electrode to create strong, precise welds in various metals. Their versatility, efficiency, and ease of use, make them a mainstay in metal fabrication processes that need adjustable settings and capabilities to weld thin and thick materials. MIG welders are suitable for welders of all skill levels.

Flux Core Welders

Flux core welders utilize a tubular electrode filled with flux to shield the weld puddle from atmospheric contamination. They are usually used for outdoor welding applications due to their ability to withstand windy conditions better than other welding processes. Flux cores are favored for thick metal welding tasks.

Arc Welders

Arc welders use electric current to create an intense heat arc between an electrode and the metal piece, fusing them together. These machines are versatile and widely used in industries, like construction, automotive repair and manufacturing. Different types of arc welding machines are for different types of welds.

TIG Welders

TIG weldes (Tungsten Inert Gas) welders, are precise and versatile. Using a non-consumable tungsten electrode to weld, TIG welders are favored for their ability to work with various metals, including stainless steel, aluminum, and copper alloys. Because of their precise control over the welding arc and minimal spatter, TIG welders are used in industries demanding the highest quality welds.