Hi Orval,

I think what the OP is trying to get at, is there is no standard
off the shelf welding rod.

The most sold is probably 6010/6011. It requires a stitch welding
technique, and tends to stick when starting. It makes strong deep
all position welds that tend to be ugly. Not for beginners.

The easiest to use is 6013, but it makes really pretty looking, flat
position, non xray quality welds, and has little penetration.

The most common low hydrogen rod is 7018, but it is tricky to use,
and must be stored in an oven. It is used almost exclusively for all
position, structural steel welding.

And then there is a host of SS rods that some people like because of
their easy welding characteristics, and the toughness of the weld.

So, what do you mean when you state off-the-shelf? I would recommend
7018, and a whole bunch of practice.

-Chuck

Orval Fairbairn wrote:
In article .com,
"Mike" wrote:

'regular' welding rod?
What's that?
Not a 4130 rod for welding 4130? - Mike

Nope

4130 rod for welding 4130 will require heat treat, or it will be brittle
and crack. Use standard, off-the-shelf welding rod from your local
welding supplier.