How to start. Equipment?

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I appreciate your time if you are reading this. I took a 70 hour welding class a year ago, and would like to continue learning. I really like welding, and it's something I would like to learn more about. I want to be able to practice welding on my own. I would like to buy a package deal that would include everything that I would need to be able to practice my MIG welding, and possibly allow me to move into an area that I could use the skills to make some extra money at. I do have all of the basics. Helmet, gloves, hammer etc. I would like to know what you think is a good deal as far as package deals. The MIG welder, tank etc. Any response is greatly appreciated.
Reply:What power do you have access to? 120V or 230v?-Clarke 130EN-Miller MaxStar 150STL-Miller Elite 29' Roadster
Reply:Derek, I am so new to this that I have to assume it is 120, but not sure. How can I determine this. thanks.
Reply:In my opinion if you want a machine that you can learn on as well as have room to grow into, I would look into any of the 210-215 amp migs.  Lincoln, miller, or the Hobart it basically personal preference.  You will hear alot of people recomend the "small" 110v or 230v migs, but in my opinion it doesn't take long to out grow them especially if you have a desire in picking up some part time work in the future.  Me personally I tend to deal with the local welding suppliers because I have found that if they know they can depend on my business they go out of their way to help me when I need it, and that translates into better prices.   (That's just my experience)  Either way you will have to get a tank as well as find someone local who can sell you needed supplies.  I personally don't know of any package deals that have tanks included. However that doesn't mean they are out there.  Good luck and have fun ~JacksonI'm a Lover, Fighter, Wild horse Rider, and a pretty good welding man......
Reply:do you have any 230V outlets in your home? all houses have 115/120V outlets, If your looking for a nice 120V Mig, look at the Miller MM140 or a Lincoln 140C, it can run both FluxCore and Gas, and they burn wire VERY nicely. For a "Bang for the buck" look at the Clarke 130EN, http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/w...1005_200311005If you have a 230V connection, Then you can look at some of the more powerful machines like a Lincoln 175 or the Miller MM180 or even larger machines.-Clarke 130EN-Miller MaxStar 150STL-Miller Elite 29' Roadster
Reply:Hey guys, this is much appreciated! Thanks so much for your time and input. I am really looking forward to doing some serious(practice) welding!
Reply:Hate to be nosy, but what kinda budget you looking at?  Perhaps a gas dealer will sell you some sort of package deal but let me tell you, dont buy a tank over the internet.  You just dont know who will fill it.  Your gonna have to visit a local airgas, linde, dellile or praxair to get your gas.  I recommend you get your welder elsewhere.  Do you have a O/A setup or Propane/Oxygen or plan on adding this?  You need some sort of way to lop off pieces of steel to play with...  On the other side, I saw at lowes that they have started selling small co2 cylinders to accompany there Lincoln Pak welders.  They look to be like 5cf and 10cf.  I didnt price em, but your better off getting a larger tank from a gas dealer (20 and 50 cf is what seems to be available around here).  If youve got about 30 amps and 220v available, get yourself a 180 size.  That should keep you in plenty of trouble for quite sometime.  If you dont want to spend the dough on gas, just get yourself some fluxcore and run without it for a while.Various GrindersVictor Journeyman torch200cf Acet. 250cf oxygenLincoln 175 plus/alpha2 gunLincoln v205t tigLincoln 350mpEsab 650 plasmaWhen you can get up in the morning, Its a good day.Live each day like its your last.
Reply:Find a good Local Welding Supply.  Most have demo equipment to try, and some have used.  If you get to know them some have deals they can work with people starting out like you. You can get loads of info here but I always like face time with business people.  Good luck