Welding Tips and Tricks

Just had an idea!
I've seen blokes spending more time stuffing around with mig wire jams than actual welding, that and the problem wind causes I've never considered it. But it's occurred to me that that might've been badly maintained equipment.
All I've ever used is stick but I was thinking, If mig welding is easier, and I can avoid wind problem by going gasless, ....my question is: What is the likely cost difference - no gas mig wire vs rods.
All I'll ever weld is 1/8" hull and deck and the keel is 3/16"
I have to buy a new welder anyway
Thanks. Pat A.

Very good quality gasless wire like Hobart xlr8 is very expensive. Plus the need of a good mig to weld it. Stick rods are dear but the ease of set up/ welding in any condition makes them a very viable other. Cigweld Ferro raft 21s are an excellent rod, that have higher tensile strength but don't need to kept in an oven. They also have iron powder in the flux which adds to deposition rate.