Stick Rust Rod vs Self-Shielded Flux-Core for Home Welding
E6011 stick rod vs E71T-11 flux-core wire. Two gasless options for hobby welders compared.
Key Differences
| Attribute | E6011 | E71T-11 |
|---|---|---|
| Process | Stick - manual rod feed | Flux-core - continuous wire feed |
| Speed | Slower - frequent rod changes | Faster - continuous wire |
| Rusty Metal | Excellent | Moderate |
| Equipment | Basic stick welder | Wire feeder (can be 110V) |
| Control | High - total arc manipulation | Moderate - wire speed fixed |
| Slag | Light, papery | Heavier, must chip |
| Spatter | Moderate | Moderate to heavy |
| Best For | Repairs, tacks, gap filling | Continuous beads, fabrication |
Use E6011 when:
Use E71T-11 when:
How E6011 and E71T-11 Work Together
Both work without shielding gas, making them the two go-to options for welders without a gas setup. E6011 stick gives more control over penetration and works better on rusty or dirty metal. E71T-11 flux-core is faster because the wire feeds continuously. For a hobbyist with a multi-process welder, keep E6011 rods for repair work and use E71T-11 wire for fabrication projects. E6011 excels when you need to tack, fill gaps, or weld out of position. E71T-11 excels when you are running long beads in flat position.
Common Mistake With Stick Rust Rod
Expecting E71T-11 flux-core to handle heavy rust like E6011 stick. Self-shielded flux-core wire does not dig through contamination as aggressively as cellulose stick rods. For rusty farm equipment, E6011 is the better choice.
Where to Buy
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