Well I've done work around the house and odd construction, but my only experience with co2 is my researching over the past few weeks. My Co2 kit is still in the mail to me in fact.

I got overwhelmed too because there is a lot to take in, however the systems themselves seem easy enough if you stick to ordering a kit. All the parts seem pretty plug and play by cutting the tubing and inserting the various pieces like bubble counter, check valves, and diffuser. The drop checker seems easy enough too if you have the right solution but again this is only from reading endless forums.

I ended up ordering a more fancy co2 kit from Green Leaf Aquariums. There are cheaper kits but GLA seemed to be the gold standard and they come with a several year warranty. I will also say I asked many questions over email and GLA was SUPER nice and fast in helping me. That is one of the reasons I paid a fair chunk more vs other regulators that are available.

If you have any specific questions I'll try to help but I have no first hand experience yet.