The Hot Pepper

t5s are kinda expensive. get some t8's from lowes / home depot

You're going to have to up your budget or lower your expectations KRC.

Shoot, I want a lower power bill haha but seems that on initial costs that another 600w HPS is cheaper hahaha

Just a temporary expense until mother nature takes over.

Very true!

I don't know exactly where you are, but if you have access check out habitat for humanity. I have seen nice lights in there for cheap among other items. Maybe consider checking pawn shops as well or craigslist. Btw thank you for your service to our country.

That's not a bad idea! Thanks man!
And I appreciate that

600 watt HPS is more efficient than T-5 as well so your power consumption will be less for the same amount of lumens (100,000 for a 600W HPS)for a T-5.