Welding Tips and Tricks

Hi,

I am an absolute noob. I have always been interested in welding, and have finally taken the plunge to see if I like it - so far so good!

I bought an inexpensive machine: BestArc 145A MIG Welder. It does gas and gasless MIG, Stick and lift TIG. So far I've just played around with flux core MIG, welding "coupons". Most of my welds are really pitiful, but I am slowly improving.

I was thinking of buying an inexpensive plasma cutter - taking advantage of the "black Friday" discounts. Do I absolutely NEED a plasma cutter? No, but at some point I'll have to cut up some steel into pieces needed for a welding project. There are so many machines to choose from, it's kind of overwhelming. I'm looking at a BestArc BTC500DP. Both "7GEN" and "10GEN" models are available at a hefty discount. (https://www.amazon.com/bestarc-BTC500DP ... R3YLC?th=1)

I have watched a few YouTube reviews and they speak well of both of these models. I would generally assume the the newer 10GEN would be "better" (have better features), but honestly, I don't know enough to even appreciate the differences between these two models - or any other models, for that matter.

If anyone can provide any guidance, it would be very much appreciated. Thanks!

- Blaise

i wouldn't bother with a plasma cutter. a grinder will do everything you need. far more important things to get before plasma cutters.

also for learning welding, i highly recommend starting with stick. its not as hard as you think and once you get reasonable with that, it makes learning mig and tig a whole lot easier.