
I've never used a welder before but I always found I needed one. After much research I decided to start with MMA welding because it was the most compact and easiest for me After reading the Amazon customer reviews of the smaller Forney (st100) I figured I'd spend a little more and go for this model as it would allow me to weld heavier materials, use a thicker bar and have a slightly to have longer duty cycles I bought a mask, 7014 sticks, a set of jackhammer brushes and welding gloves. .After unpacking and setting up the machine, I played with the crowbar for 10 minutes and then got to work on my first project. The welder didn't swallow. Can't wait to try 220 and heavier stuff.