I'm calling out KB58 specifically because his blog is a particularly bad influence. 
I finally had the capital (after years of being broketastic) to buy a MIG welder. Cdn Tire had the Lincoln MIGPak 140 on for $499 and I could no longer pass it up. I actually bought it in The Soo on my way to a field service job because the roads in Sudbury were too slick on the only day I had at home all week.
I got in last night and popped in to Princess Auto (think Harbor Freight but more square footage and name brands as well as house brands) because I was sure I saw the Lincoln value kit for $199. It was actually $99. That's the kit with the jacket, gloves, beanie, solar auto helmet (#11 only) and a pretty nice duffel bag. They also had a small welding cart for $59 - score! I also picked up an aluminum jack for $99 because I hate my little red 2-ton mini jack which everyone starts out with. I also grabbed a chipping hammer, wire brush, some magnets, that Lincoln welder cozy (had to) and more flux core wire.
All in, I'm at ~$950 after taxes for the whole shebang. All I need is gas, but that can wait until I get some practice in - which will be over the Christmas break.
And, not only was Swmbo out of the loop on this, but she hinted that is was maybe not a good idea. MUAH-HAHAHAHAHAHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAack
What do I win? 
