I've commented on the gas debate in another thread a number of months back. Main point- speak to your friendly local gas supplier about the price, and see what they can do for you. Price should be the least of your worries- a botched job will oftentimes cost way more than a fistfull of dollars for the gas. On the other hand, anything you buy which you never use will be expensive... so if you are not using gas (or anything for that matter) then it really is surplus to your requirements and 'expensive' in your own eyes.  
People who hold onto that oxy acetylene set for 15+ years 'just in case' and then complain about reantal, really have no argument. I saw one set get returned for the early 70's. Both cylinders went out of test in the early 80's.
Gasless (FCAW) has it's applications. Heavy earthmoving / mining / repairs love it, as it's less susceptible to contaminants - meaning you can weld on a dirty bucket or piece of machinery without having it operating theatre clean. 
That welder, as nice as the price seems, is probably going to run out of legs on you. 
Looks like it's just got the high/low wire speed control (very coarse adjustment) and likewise with the voltage. Things like a voltage readout would make life so much more easier when setting up your machine. 
Then things like the fixed torch and fixed earth lead will prove a little more difficult to source parts for than other models. 
Definately not a professional or semi professional grade machine, but OK I guess if you've just got a few runs to do and don't care about keeping it long term. But on the other hand, small one-off jobs can often be done very quickly, professionally, and cost effectively by your local job shop / fabricator, or even mobile welding contractor. Much cheaper than tooling up, getting the skill set, and making some mistakes along the way at least.
				
			 
			
		 
			
				
			
				
			
			
				-Mitch
'El Burro' 2012 Defender 90.
			
			
		 
	
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