Yeah, I didn't even think of Amazon. I've had issues about shipping policies with some of their sellers. You really can't get much from amazon up here. Ebay shipping was a killer too. Not to mention brokerage fees, duty and taxes on top of that. Sad to say but even buying online nowadays makes me want to buy local.

On the handle issue, I'm not a big fan. Probably because I've had to use the welder in a few tight spaces and needed every inch of clearance possible. Brought it over to my neighbour's and had to pull a stove and still could barely fit the connector. I'm sure if it's going to stay in your shop forever that's not going to be an issue.

Go with whatever makes you comfortable it's not really a big issue as long as you can strike an arc, IMHO.