Don Foreman wrote:
I think 7018 is way overrated for simple fab jobs, particularly by us
amateurs. It's bitchy to strike, fussy about humidity, and it's kinda
runny so a challenge on vertical and overhead welds. I never used
much 7018, preferred 6013 and 7014. I've never had a weld fail in
service.

All I have ever run before (what I cut my teeth with) is 6013. It's
predictable, and pretty easy for me to play with. 7014 I find to be almost
the same.

The most essential technique and discipline of welding seems to be the
hardest to learn and to inculcate: mind and manage the puddle.

It is only this year that I figured out not to stare at the arc when I am
welding, and that is probably the biggest thing to improve my technique.

Jon