Why my $150 Flux-core/MIG Welder is better than your $700 iPhone 5S

There isn't much of a comparison going on. A phone is a communication tool, a welder is a tool for repairs and construction. However, the technology of electric welders hasn't changed greatly in the past 40 years, and much like wood working tools, the future of a welder isn't going to come to an end anytime soon.

While I would love to have the opportunity to walk into a Starbucks and let my creative side come out by welding something like some people bring out their sketchbooks or laptops to write, the scenario is unlikely for health and safety reasons. Regardless, a welder is a far better investment than a piece of disposable consumer technology.

As a note here are some projects that I have in mind :

• Repair the muffler hanger on my car
• Make a pair of snowshoes with EMT tubing 
• Build a greenhouse
• Build a sled for winter
• Adapt the sled for a bicycle trailer
• Build a wood stove
• Make a sculpture with various pieces of scrap metal 

Tools cannot be replaced : a plum bob, a level, a tape measure, a hammer, and of course a pencil will all outlive the latest HDTV projector or smartphone.

 See also

http://toolmonger.com/2008/08/29/cheap-ass-tools-chicago-electric-90-amp-flux-core-welder/