My first welds!

I got the welding machine out and started practicing today. I learned two truths about welding.

1. Welding is easy
2. Welding well is VERY difficult

Anyone who can hold the pistol grip of a welding machine can weld. I proved that today. Making solid, useful welds without turning what you are welding into useless slag? That takes lots and lots of practice. I will be getting as much of that practice as I can in the next couple of days. Here's some pictures of the practice from today.

Ugly but, solid.

The backside. I'm starting to get the penetration I need to make good welds.

My fire extinguisher