All great advice. My biggest reason for wanting to start out without shielding gas was to just get used to the machine, tinker with it, etc. Then make me a frame on wheels to put welder on. Afterwards, perhaps get into trying the shielding gas.

Did have one other question: Do guys typical hold the nozzle down on the metal at a slant, or do they typically hold the nozzle just a hair off the metal? Thanks,