Yes, a grinder is your friend.I don't consider myself to be as good as someone who welds for a living. However, I'm up there with the best of them when it comes to using a grinderlol
I have an old Lincoln AC-225, haven't used in years. Probably worth more in scrap copper than as a welder in this day and age. AC welding is hard to do and make look nice plus it needs a 40 amp plug but it will weld some thick material.If you really want to get good at welding find a Lincoln electric tombstone welder on marketplace or Craigslist
It actually does help to use a crappy welder. If you get good on a crappy machine you can weld with any machine
I also like the titanium brand hood from HF
Instasheild is what I use. Turns dark as soon as you start to weld. Wear gloves and long sleeves or you'll get a sunburn like wound on your exposed skin.
And definitely don't wear sandles
Beware of the slagAnd definitely don't wear sandles
Nothing is worse than welding overhead and having slag fall into your collar
