Hello Jim, if self-shielded, high-deposition, seismic qualified filler is your requirement then the ESAB Coreshield 8 is one of the choices that will fit the bill. As to the user-friendly question, it may well be a matter of welder preference. There are other manufacturers that produce similarly qualified fillers and they all have their quirks and idiosyncrasies with regard to setting, running, and manipulating. Lincoln NR-232 is another of these, Hobart also manufacturers an electrode choice that has similar qualifications, there are likely others, but I am unfamiliar with them. Without knowing your experiences with self-shielded wires it could be difficult to make suggestions that would make sense. Vertical welding with the majority of the seismic wires can present challenges with regard to bead profile, particularly when using the larger diameter wires(1/16" and up). You may wish to include more specific information on your application, include wire diameter, position, and other specifics. There are plenty of folks who frequent here who could give you some very specific information for use, technique, and other details. A bit for you to consider. Best regards, Allan

Coreshield  is very user friendly. NR 232 from What I have been told, is not.