While this subject has been discussed before, I could use some specific opinions about make/model of auto-darkening welding helmets. I use a "stick" machine and a MIG. My old, always dark helment, is ready for the trash. I see auto-darkening helmets priced from about $100 up to $300. I've never used one. I don't doubt that a top-of-the-line model would work well but do I really need to spend the $$ for one considering my application? What would you recommend for a novice who may weld something only every few weeks?

Thanks, in advance, for your thoughts.

 

Well, I don't particularly care for them, but that's just personal preference. A good friend has 2 of them, a 'real good one', and a cheapie. To be honest, the only difference I can see between the 2 is that the cheap one is really kind of heavy. It seems to be bulkier as well but I guess that would go along with it being heavier.

chaikwa.

 

I work with a group of welders that use a little of everthing. Some like Some don't. When the battery goes dead no one likes them.

 

Spend the money on a good one if you can. The mind can't pick up the difference in 1/20,000 of a second but if you're off and on a lot your eyes will notice in the long run. It's just my opinion but you get what you pay for...
tom

 

For the weekend warrior (welder) an auto shade can be very nice expecially if you are tacking things together.

Miller makes a fairly decent autoshade. Optrel and the Jackson shades have a couple of more feature but are a bit more cash.

I have used a couple of the cheapy type helmets not sure I would buy one myself.

 

i have a speedglass, absolutely love it. i've had it for 4 years now and still works like new. mig, tig, stick, plasma, oxy/acetylene cutting it does it all. best thing i bought

 

i work in the auotbody trade and use a miller auto with flames! i love it and it works awesome. get one with a solar panel so while you are welding it charges the battery. it also is a big screen too. very helpfull.

 

I've used the auto darkening ones and they just don't respond fast enough for me. I prefer having it dark before I start welding.

 

I have an Optrel and I am happy with it.
Get one as good as you can afford because you only get 1 pair of eye's in this lifetime.
Jim
http://www.optrel.com