My British built (welded hull) carrier, was welded with stainless steel rods. (I couldn't tell the difference between stainless and nickel chromium)
I was given some free old stainless rods which I found very forgiving (of my very average welding ability). Under normal circumstances, stainless would be a more expensive option.
Back in the day, arc welding rods were cumbersome and fragile, with the flux contained around the rod with a paper wrapping. They needed a high amperage to get them started. Hence the seemingly large amounts of spatter around some of the original welds.
I think back then, rods were "non contact", Now days, they are "contact"
(easier to use)
BTW, stainless welds wont gas cut, but arc-air gouging works well on it.
I too am waiting for Colin to chime in. I expect him to make it sound very easy.
