Newbie wondering where to start

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Hi,As the title said, I'm new in the welding world and wondering from where I could start. Let's explain the situation. I first weld a few months ago in my mecanical engineering formation at college, they're not supposed to form experienced welders in the program, it's more to show us a few basic concepts.But now I would like to go farther in my welding capacities, and I'm asking you with wich kind of stuff I could start. I would like to start with a small capacity SMAW machine, essentially for hobby projects or small reparation works, preferably a Miller one because my local dealer is selling them.On their site, I saw the Thunderbolt® XL 225 AC model wich could be interesting for my needs, since it's starting from 400$ and seems to have sufficient capacities. I'm asking, do you think this would be a good choice or not or if you have any other suggestions?Thank you,P.S. Sorry if there's any hazardous spelling or syntax, I'm not used to speak english on a daily-base...
Reply:Get a thunderbolt with ac/dc capabilities.  You will never be sorry you did.However, that is really high for a miller ac thunderbolt.  It sounds more reasonable for an ac.dc machine.Esab Migmaster 250Lincoln SA 200Lincoln Ranger 8Smith Oxy Fuel setupEverlast PowerPlasma 80Everlast Power iMIG 160Everlast Power iMIG 205 Everlast Power iMIG 140EEverlast PowerARC 300Everlast PowerARC 140STEverlast PowerTIG 255EXT
Reply:Thanks, am I right if I say that changing between AC and DC is improving the welding finish and is determined by the materials I am welding?
Reply:Well,Not exactly.  Most rod types have an DC rating.  A few run okay on AC and a few are designed for it,  but DC will nearly always work on any rod any time.  AC is good for rusted and oxidized steel.Esab Migmaster 250Lincoln SA 200Lincoln Ranger 8Smith Oxy Fuel setupEverlast PowerPlasma 80Everlast Power iMIG 160Everlast Power iMIG 205 Everlast Power iMIG 140EEverlast PowerARC 300Everlast PowerARC 140STEverlast PowerTIG 255EXT
Reply:Dale:Welcome. If you go up to the left side of the page to User CP, you can put your location; like your country. That way everyone will give you credit for knowing English as a second language, instead of thinking you spell poorly.There are many more rods available to use with an AC/DC welder. Although AC only is OK, you'll never outgrow an AC/DC.9-11-2001......We Will Never ForgetRetired desk jockey. Hobby weldor with a little training. Craftsman O/A---Flat, Vert, Ovhd, Horz. Miller Syncrowave 250
Reply:you should consider learnig to weld with a oxyacetylene torch. you will learn heat and puddle control much easier than with electric welding(eexcept for tig, which will give you the same lessons in puddle control because of the excellent heat control capabilities tig offers.) good luck and enjoy..
Reply:Thank you for your answers.
Reply:Originally Posted by lugweldWell,Not exactly.  Most rod types have an DC rating.  A few run okay on AC and a few are designed for it,  but DC will nearly always work on any rod any time.  AC is good for rusted and oxidized steel.