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Hey gang.  Been reading on this site for while, and have learned a lot.  I'm considering my next tool purchase to outfit my home shop.  My projects center around my hobbies, which are machine work, metal fabrication and general shop work.  I've got a South Bend lathe, Bridgeport mill, Century 220V MIG welder, plus a complete wood shop.  I'm more interested in metal work/fabrication right now and realize I need a decent metal cutting machine.  Would like a decent bandsaw, maybe a Grob 18", or DoAll 20" vertical saw w/welder. I would think this would give my most versatility with cutting most types and thickness of metals for both welding, and machine work.  I'm trying to limit my cost at $1200.  Second on the list would be a decent plasma cutter, maybe a Hypertherm Pmax30 or that size.  Most of my welding is 1/4" or less so I would think this would work out, but without experience with this its a bit of a question.  Finally, maybe I need to upgrade my welder?? (This is set up for flux core only.) I find the MIG is a little light for anything over 1/4", though that may be my techinique. Maybe an AC/DC stick welder.  This should eliminate any issues with penetration on the heavier material I would think.   Anyway, sorry for the long post.  Would be interested in any comments on this and assistance in spending my $$.  Thanks.
Reply:No replies?  Maybe I didn't explain it well enough.  Anyway, I coincidently found an 18" Grob bandsaw in my price range right after posting this.  Its s little rough, and needs some TLC.  I'm going to look at it on saturday, and hopefully I'll be driving away with it.  So let me rephrase the question.  With the bandsaw in hand, I'm going to bypass the plasma, and look for a better welder.  I'm thinking TIG at this point, since it will expand the type of welding I'd like to try.  That being more stainless and finer finished type craft work. I'm thinking up to 1/4" thick or so and I'd like to go used, for cost reasons.  What's a good used beginners machine to look for, and what should I expect to spend??  On the flip side, which new machine could someone recommend I look at for comparison.  Thanks for any replies.
Reply:I just sold my Lincoln sq wave 175 Tig for $850 cdn. I think they are well regarded as a solid no frills machine.Bob.Miller Dynasty 200 DXMillermatic 211Hypertherm PM 600In Tool acquisition Mode