What should I say if I attempt to buy N and a regulator at a welding supply store? Also advice on exactly what to buy.

[goinghome11:11]

I found a welding supply store near me. I think it's a chain with many locations around the US. I have a couple of questions about trying to source nitrogen and a regulator from this place.

Since I'll be going to the store in-person, what should I say I need the nitrogen for? Also the regulator? (Like, do welders actually need regulators with their N, etc.?)

Also does anyone have experience with buying inert gases in-store? Will they possibly just sell it to me without asking questions? Do they have regulations in place that they only sell to someone with a business license like they do online?

Also, looking at their stock online, they don't seem to sell the N by cylinder size (?). I see PSI numbers and such, not cubic feet. Do I need to purchase a cylinder somewhere else first and bring it in? Should I get industrial, medical, or high purity grade?

The regulators also don't have Lpm numbers, and I see medium, heavy and light duty options. I have no clue which one I would need to get.

I'm really scared to go to this place to try to source N, but I've been doing research on so many different methods and I feel like I'm running out of reliable options for a peaceful ctb.

Sorry if this sounds like I'm all over the place. I feel like I'm overthinking everything, but I'm really desperate here

 

[nihilistic_dragon]

I know little about this method. But here are my two cents - if you're buying several things, maybe try going to separate stores and buy them separately so it's less suspicious? Since you said it's a chain store, I assume it can be done if you're willing to drive around a bit.

 

[Arahant]

Say you were sent to pick it up for your grandfather or something, and don't know much about the actual craft?

Do they have any basis to refuse you a sale?

 

[null_blank]

If it is a large chain, 99% of the employees won't care what you may or may not do with what they sell you and will likely make fun of your lack of knowledge in the following days.

Getting a piece at a time like @nihilistic_dragon said from different locations is a way to avoid scrutiny from Big Dave who grew up in the trade but lost the family company due to his gambling proclivity, so I'd be more apt to go that route.