inexpensive welder?

Lots of good info here. Spend a little extra and get a better welder. I would stay away from the flux core and get a gas/mig. Buy it local and make sure the supplier has nozzles, gas shields, liners etc available. Those consumables will be needed eventually. I have been in the tool business for 20 years now and I woild choose Miller, Lincoln, and Hobart in that order. Mac used to carry small
Astro brand welders. Italian made and not too bad for the price. Getting parts
after they were dropped from our line was a different story. Try your local welding supplier. They may have some trade ins. toolmanmike