While many welders still use the old static lens (non-electronic) helmet or mask, once you use an auto-change (electronic) helmet you will never go back.  I'll start with a word of warning. We have looked at many of this type helmet that we could sell for $59-79 but have never seen one that was even approaching the quality we would want to sell. We strive to sell product that will function as stated and will last for a while.  I will divide the helmets into type of welding designed for and will list them in the order I feel is the ranking they deserve.  The biggest difference as they go up in price are features. Adjustability, in arc sensing, delay, different shades etc. I feel it is best to buy a helmet with adjustable shade 9-13 as we all have different tolerance to arc. If you need to wait a little to get a better helmet, do it, as you will probably be looking again shortly if you go to "cheap" on this product.  Also the less expensive you buy will have much smaller viewing area, as small as 1.5 x 3" versus 2" x 4" on the better helmets. All the top of the line helmets are within 1/4" of 2" x 4", the cartridge looks larger, but that is the viewing area. Read listing carefully if you need a mag or cheater lens, as not all will accommodate them.  No other welding item you ever purchase will affect you more than a good welding helmet. Nowhere does the Expression "YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR" apply more than with an electronic helmet. Features are outlined in individual listings.

Stick Welding:

        All these helmets are good for stick welding, however overhead welding of anykind is not usually recommended. Remember I will list in order of quality and best features.  Hornell 9002X, Hornell 9002V, Jackson Nex-gen, Optrel Satellite, Miller Elite series, MILLER DIGITAL ELITE, Miller PERFORMANCE  series and Miller PRO HOBBY series Hornell Utility and Jackson Apprentice. Last 2 are single shade 10 only.I want to mention that Hornell is now owned by 3M Company, no change in quality, but many new models.  Newest is the 100V series, a very good buy with great features.

Mig Welding

     Same as above ranking.

Tig Welding

      Hornell 9002X, Hornell 9002V 9100X, 9100XX (with 1/3 larger viewing area than any other helmet we sell),  Jackson Nex-Gen, Optrel Satellite, Miller Elite and digital Elite series and Miller PERFORMANCE series. 

BEST VALUE AT CURRENT TIME FOR ALL WELDING TYPES EXCEPT EXTREMELY LOW AMP TIG WELDING IS THE MILLER PERFORMANCE SERIES. NEED TO ADD THE NEW 3M 100 SERIES TO THIS AS THEY ARE NICE LOOKING, WITH 3M (HORNELL) ELECTRONICS.

While there are many other brands and models on the market, we feel that the above if used properly and taken care of, will do all you want or need and can last for many years.  I would stay with one that has replaceable batteries as while solar batteries are nice, if not put in actual sun from time to time you may experience problems. Many of these helmets have solar assist which helps batteries last longer. Average battery life 1500-2000 hours.

Link to our EBay store, auto darkening helmets below.

http://stores.ebay.com/Welding-Supplies-from-IOC_Helmets-AUTO-DARKNING_W0QQcolZ2QQdirZQ2d1QQfsubZ8QQftidZ2QQtZkm?refid=store

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http://stores.ebay.com/Welding-Supplies-from-IOC_Helmets-AUTO-DARKNING_W0QQcolZ2QQdirZQ2d1QQfsubZ8QQftidZ2QQtZkm?refid=store

SAVE THIS BOOKMARK   http://stores.ebay.com/Welding-Supplies-from-IOC_W0QQsspagenameZMEQ3aFQ3aSTQQtZkm?refid=store

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