Well, I'm looking to get a welder. It will be my first welder, and my first time welding. I would be using it for sheet metal work, maybe bumper stuff for my jeep, exhaust stuff, and possible a few other things. What would be the easiest way to learn? What would be the best model to learn on? I am a noob at this, so, I would appreciate all help and opinions. Thanks.

well do you know what types of metal you want to work with?

I'm no expert but for me the best way to learn was practice practice practice

Depends on the metal and what type of welder your useing. There are Arc welding, which is commonly seen as "stick" welding using a very hot piece of metal anywhere from the size of a 1/2' dowel to a 1 round, to a grounded piece of metal., OxyAcetelyne Welding, where you take a thin piece of metal and heat it to melting point to join two pieces of metal. Tig welding, which uses a titanium stick, commonly used to weld alluminum[sp]. Mig welding, which uses a roll of wire, electrified, pushed onto a grounded piece of metal to create a weld. You have big machines that use plasma, but those usually run mucho bucks. If you need any help with anything, let me know. I got cert in Mig, Tig, Oxy and Arc

What one is the easiet to use for a beginner? I would be welding steel and perhaps exhaust piping. I hear that Mig welders are good for beginners?

Mig and Oxy are good for beginners. Easy to lay a bead with both since if your steady with your hands when you tag the metal, it will be smooth flowing

I learned to arc weld in 9th grade, I found it pretty easy.

Chad, what are the differences in welding stainless steel vs steel vs Al??

Arc, SMARC, or 'stick' will give you deeper weld penetration. Typically for heavy stuff. It'* tricky to weld thin-wall tubing and the like unless you're REALLY good. This would also apply to sheet metal. Very tough with stick.

I'd suggest a small 110v wire-feed Mig for automotive sheetmetal.

My dad has a little 120V wire feed welder that is perfect for what your looking for. Its easy to use with some practice and can weld up to 5/16" thick.
http://www.mylincolnelectric.com/Cat...eet.asp?p=7112

that looks like an nice little welder

try to get one with shielding gas it helps alot for laying good welds