Some advantages of stick welding are: Very portable, welder needs only to carry leads anywhere the weld needs to be done. Equipment is affordable. Can be used in all positions, and be used indoors our outside as wind doesn't usually affect weld pool. Some disadvantages of stick welding are: 1  Only a few inches at a time can be welded before another electrode is needed. 2  Electrode ends (butts) are wasted. 3  High level of skill needed to produce sound welds. 4  Many electrodes have low penetration. 5  Arc blow can occur with direct current. more information...