I, like many others, learned to weld with an old lincoln cracker box. (AC only machine) If you can learn to weld on ac, switching to dc is like a dream. DC gives a much smoother arc. Remember, on a/c current the arc is trying to extinquish itself 120 times a second (60hz). Thats one of the reasons when first beginning to weld with a/c its so hard to strike and maintain an arc. As for spending extra money for a machine capable of DC, its all relative. Lincoln makes an AC/DC crackerbox that would definitely handle almost any around the house projects and maintenance. Take into account what all you will be welding and make the best financial decision from there. If you get a DC capable machine, you won't regret it. It allows you a broader range of electrodes you can use and makes welding a lot easier. plus you can convert any DC stick welding machine to a scratch start Tig welder!!!
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