Depends on how much gas you use. I used to hire MIG mix and Oxy Acetalyne but for what I use I bit the bullet and bought my own cylinders - I also went up to an E size for everything as you get around twice the gas as a D for not much more - bottles are a little more to buy. If you’re going to go through a bit then hire can be a suitable option.
When you hire, the gas is much cheaper, but they get you with the ongoing cost which adds up if you’re just a hobby welder doing work on the weekends.
I looked at Bunnings but went with Total Tools in the end only because my local Total tools is easier to get to than Bunnings. D size of Argon or Mig mix is $299 including the bottle the first time then $99 exchange after that. E size is $475 first up then $159 exchange so gas is a lot cheaper after the initial outlay. Bunnings prices are about the same price.
I get around 6 to 8 months from my E MIG mix which is the one I use the most, My Argon is still half full after 2 years and my oxy acetylene about the same, so paying rent on those ones particularly would aggravate me with how little I use them.
IMO if you can afford the extra dollar go an E size - they do take up a bit more room and don’t fit the small welding carts but worth it, they will give you a good excuse to use your welder and make up a nice new custom welding cart. 👍
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