re: Thinking of getting dad a MIG welder for Fathers Day... suggestions?

The Miller is a nice machine (I have a 130 about 10 years old). My Miller uses shielding gas.

I have used a Lincoln 140 at work and it is a good little machine too.

Something to consider also is whether you are going to bear the expense of a shielding gas or just get flux cored wire.

The weld quality with the shielding gas is superior but a bottle and regulator add $100-200 to the package. Then you almost have to get a cart to keep it all together.

If you're price point is under $500 get the Lincoln.

If you can swing up to $1k get the Miller, bottle, regulator & cart.

BTW no matter what you get some consumables are needed (tips, wire, nozzle dip, etc.)

You may want to check some local welding supply houses sometimes they have package deals.

Hope this helps.