At work, we had the BIG welders, Mig and Tig. At home , I use a little Miller 135 mig, 115 volt.
I've welded up to 1/2" with it, even though it's not rated that thick.
I'll weld something up, put it in the vise and knock the hell out of it. Haven't broke one yet.
Last year, I posted some pics...