I'm not a AWS member and do not have access to their standards, etc. However, I am an
engineer who uses welding as part of my work and as hobby activities. I use a good sized
AC/DC welder, gas, and MIG with CO2.

I'd like to find a source on line for the different stick welding rods as well as MIG wires by
their numbers with the recommended uses.

Also is there any reference out there relating manufacturer's numbers as related to the
equivalent AWS numbers?

In addition to the uses, it always is useful to know the machining capabilities as well as
the difficulties in using.

While nice looking welds may be what some like, I also would like to know ease of
penetrating oil, galvanizing, and rust. Position problems also would be nice to know.