I spent much of the afternoon pricing a gas welding setup using new equipment. It actually doesn't look quite as bad as I initially thought. I was able to find an oxy/acetylene pair of new Smith 30-series regulators for $136 and the Smith AW1A handle for $103 (compared to $190 and $122, respectively, at Aircraft Spruce). I priced a setup minus tanks and cart at around $325 from an online vendor. Not sure what to invest in for check valves, however. Are simple check valves acceptable (~$14 brandname Smith), or do I need to go for those specifically marketed as flashback arrestors ($50-$75 Smith/Victor)? Any opinions on regulator mount vs torch mount?


And now that I look at more details, any recommendations on tip sizes? AW201/203/205?


I'm still keeping my eyes out, and will sleep on this purchase for a little while, but even new equipment looks more affordable than I thought.

-Tony