Once you get the hand tools... (sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers, etc)....
I always buy new power tools, and I am stuck on certain brands, based on my personal experience.. I used to buy only Craftsman power tools.... not anymore.
A Makita 4" angle grinder is probably my most used tool. Get some flap wheel sanding discs, some grinding wheels, a knotted wire wheel and some good quality cut-off wheels. You'll be amazed at how much you use the grinder. It's also handy for projects around the house too.
2nd is my Makita Sawzall
If you are fabricating and need a welder go with a Lincoln, Miller, Fronius or ESAB and go 220 Volt if you are going to weld anything thicker than 1/8" thick. If you are only going to be welding on body panels a 110 Volt machine will work great. Be sure to get a wire welder with gas purging.
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John anim_25