I used a stick welder for years on jeeps, sand rails, trailers, motorcycles, etc. with good results. However, after using several wire feeds over the years (including a 110volt model which I hated), I purchased a wire feed last year. WOW! I regret not spending the money a long time ago. I opted for the lowest price 220 unit available, and purchased a Miller. I use both flux core wire and shielding gas, but find the flux core wire works fine for most applications. You just need to clean off the splatter. I also weld aluminum without the extra controls, and after practice, can work with aluinum as thin as 18".
Spend the extra money on the lowest priced 220volt wire feed, as you won't like the 100volt unit.
Rick