I’ve got $500 to get into welding. I know my way around most tools, as I spend about 20 hours a week woodworking as a hobby/side gig. I have ZERO experience with welding or metal fabricating.

I want to buy a welder and learn to use it so I eventually can build my own 2x72 belt grinder.

Is it even possible to get into welding (welder, ppe, etc) with $500?