looking to buy my first welder

you guys are like a bunch of car sales people...i tell you my budget and you show me something 2 times as much


seriously though, thanks for all the input...keep me coming

Just ordered the Eastwood mig 135 with the nice large view, auto darkening and natural color, with darkness adjustable helmet, two lens protectors and the sheepskin welding gloves AND the 25 foot heavy duty extension cord for about 500.
Beware, that size gauge of extension cables are expensive. (about 5+ bucks a foot)
I expect you have not really priced extension cords, but they are a MUST.
Comes with the gauges and hoses for gas, and as said above they are identical to the bigger brand names inside.

They have a 3 year no hassle warrantee and use standard consumables.
110 volt