1971 GranCoupe: thanks for the link. That looks like something that I could pick up to get me started. It's funny you say no to Harbor Freight. That's where I was when I made my decision. I went in for some casters and left with a 20 ton press that I've been eyeing for a long time. Anywho, I saw their's and thought I might as well. You don't think anything they have to offer is worthwhile?

451Mopar: what do you think about the one in the link? I can't see myself spending $1k to play around with a welder. Something more along the price in the link is what I'm looking to spend. $200-400 is my window.

What do you guys think about stick welding. It was one that I read up on briefly. Is that one easier for learning? Effective for what I'm looking for?