What it welds
The Lincoln Electric K1297 Stick Welder is a stick inverter with a maker-stated output of up to 50 amps on 230-volt input.
At its top output of 50 amps, Miller's 1-amp-per-thousandth rule points to about 0.050 in of steel per pass. Where the rule comes from.
The listing doesn't give a duty cycle with its amperage, which makes long beads hard to plan; the rating plate or manual should state it. Why it matters.
Plan a 240-volt circuit sized as the manual states before it arrives. What input voltage changes.
Use a lens of at least OSHA's minimum shade for the current: shade 8 or darker for typical TIG or stick work here. Shade chart.
Also on the listing: dimensions of 15 x 19 x 27 inches and a weight of 8.8 ounces.
Is it the right machine for the job?
Buy it for
- Farm and structural repairs
- Sheet metal to about 0.050 in
Skip it for
- Steel much past 0.050 in in one pass
- Aluminium
What it does well, where it falls short
Does well
- Up to 50 A output
Falls short
- Duty cycle not stated with amps
- Needs a 240 V circuit
- Slag cleanup
Power and setup notes
- Ratings are the maker's own, stated under the maker's conditions. Follow the manual, wear eye protection of at least OSHA's minimum shade, keep combustibles away, ventilate, and have a licensed electrician install new circuits.
Rated output and specs
Every figure below comes from the source shown in brackets. Where the maker doesn't state something, we say so instead of estimating.
| Model number | K1297 | Retailer |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (seller) | 15 x 19 x 27 inches | Retailer |
| Product weight | 8.8 ounces | Retailer |
| Output range | 50a | Retailer |
| Input power | 230v | Retailer |
Machines to put next to it
Other stick (arc) welders in the same amp range
- ESAB Rogue ES 151IP Stick Welder
- Forney 235 Stick Welder
- Miller 907909 Stick Welder
- Miller 907709 Stick Welder
Every stick (arc) welders on one spec sheet · All Lincoln Electric machines listed
Final verdict
A match for farm and structural repairs.
Where to buy
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