Hi All,

I have never welded anything before and I'm looking to jump in as a hobby to get me through the winter. I'm looking to build a hunting tree stand and have seen some cool ideas on the forums. Basically, I'm looking for info on what I would need in terms of the best welder and equipment to start messing around. Looking to spend less than $400. Also, what type of materials should I get to construct the stands out of and where would be a good place to buy such materials? I understand that it probably will take me quite some time to get good enough to actually make anything worth while, as I mentioned I'm just looking for a hobby. Please feel free to throw in any other info you think I may find helpful.

Appreciate all the help I can get.

Thanks.