a lincoln 140c can be had for about 695 i bought mine at work with a spool gun and i got it for 895
you can up grade to a 180c for about 100 more the 140 can weld up to 5/16 no prob single pass (035 flux core wire)
and i can change the wire and weld a soda can together.. another great entry level is the weld pack 3200 they are great as well