Thread: Welding masks .....what do you have ??

I have been looking @ a lot of new ones , I want a nicer one without breaking the bank ....ideas ??

go to tsc, great affordable self darkening.

I have a hobart hood that does just fine for me, but i dont really do that much welding at home

A cheap Harbor Freight auto-darkening helmet suits my infrequent welding needs.



Welding Helmet - Save on this Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet

^^^ GOOD Buy for the money. I usually burn my face because Im a dumb ass and weld with my torching glasses so I get a lot of sunburns so I would really suggest usuing a helmet for best results lol

I have had issues with the harbor freight hoods before. Mainly with cutting out when welding. Granted the 2 hoods we had at the shop took a beating, but still if you have ever had flash burn it sucks. I personally will never use another Harbor Freight one due to this. I have had a Hobart hood for 4 years. It held up great with all types. The only issue I had was when I was welding spray transfer( voltage at around 32 and the wire speed was around 650) but that was due to the massive amount of heat. The next hood I get will be a 3M speed glass, probably the best hood on the market. If you don't do that much welding and want something to start out in get a Hobart. Next step up is a Miller and then the 3M speed glass.

I think the thing about auto darkening hoods is you have to be in a well lit area as they tend to be solar powered. And check the batteries if they have them, keep them good and fresh and then it can be dark and still work.

I am more a fan of the flip up lens nylon hoods as they are cheap and simple.

The auto darkening hoods charge from the light generated from welding. I dont think I could weld with out an auto darkening hood.

No hood... Like a boss.

The ones that aren't very good charge from the weld light and no battery, but those are the same ones that will flash you.

Below are a two with batteries one has solar assisted charging, and it charges from all ambient light.
Hobart XVS Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet — Flat Black, Model# 770424 | Welding Helmets | Northern Tool + Equipment

Hobart Auto-Darkening XVS Variable-Shade Welding Helmet — Blaze Orange, Model# 770445 | Welding Helmets | Northern Tool + Equipment