Larger machine tool discussions...

[redshift]

To use welding as an example, it's 75% proper machine settings, etc, and 25% user skill.

In that same vain, standard machining is 3/4 proper feeds/speeds/tool selection, and 1/4 skill.

James if you are adept at welding thin gauge steel with minimal distortion, welding heavy gauge (ANY metal) will be a walk in the park.. Welders almost always begin with gas (oxyacetylene) brazing, then welding. So you are probably much better prepared than you think.

Tig is the only process I actually enjoy, especially stainless. I have to have projects to keep myself from getting rusty. I did a full exhaust for my bike back in '05, 100% 304, from the flanges back, even the baffles are SS. Full freeform as well, no blueprints were used.

One of these combos would be priceless for gun mods, or reproduction parts- as if you hadn't thought about that aspect hehe.

But really you are only concerned with different materials' characteristics, and keeping all that info in your brain.

A quick example would be, you don't cut steel with toolsteel.
It will work, but there is not enough hardness differential between the cutter and the stock, and your edge will dull fast.

It's not difficult at all, and the best way to learn is simply experimenting with materials and tooling.