Welding helmet advice wanted

[customFC]

Currently looking at purchasing a Auto darkening welding helmet for use with the MIG.
Don't want to spend a fortune, but want something that will do a reasonable job and be reliable.
Looking to spend $70 to $130. I know there are helmets out there that are more expensive and would be a great buy, truth is I just don't have the cash to spend.
I have been looking around and frankly it is confusing to know what the right combo is.
I have settled on something that has adjustable shades, 9-13 and something with a reaction time of 1/30,000 or maybe 1/25,000. I am thinking something with an Aust standard compliance to avoid cheap imports also.
Here's a few on ebay that look interesting:
Ebay Item #321113077153
Ebay Item #271194283884
Ebay Item #151029097003

Supercheap do a home brand version that looks ok but not many specs listed.
http://www.supercheapauto.com.au/online-store/products/SCA-Welding-Helmet-Auto-Darkening-Vari-9-to-13.aspx?pid=222442&menuFrom=80503#Cross

Any feedback appreciated.
Regards
Alex

[Oggz]

http://www.tradetools.com/products/AWHHD

trade tools direct, good helmet at a reasonably price

[customFC]

Hey Oggz
Thanks for the response and the link.
Looks like a solid helmet.
Concern re the weight at 760g when most are 460-560g but I will keep your suggestion in mind.

Found a local tool shop selling Unimig and Boss helmets at what seem good value.
I like this 1 with the wider viewing area, 4 sensors, battery test etc.
Ebay Item #280891753129
Thought I might go and have a look.

Seems also that some of the ratings can be measured differently, esp the reaction time based on what standards are used. 1/10,000 seems most common.
Anyone have thoughts on this?
Regards
Alex

[FC427]

Hey Oggz
Thanks for the response and the link.
Looks like a solid helmet.
Concern re the weight at 760g when most are 460-560g but I will keep your suggestion in mind.

Found a local tool shop selling Unimig and Boss helmets at what seem good value.
I like this 1 with the wider viewing area, 4 sensors, battery test etc.
Ebay Item #280891753129
Thought I might go and have a look.

Seems also that some of the ratings can be measured differently, esp the reaction time based on what standards are used. 1/10,000 seems most common.
Anyone have thoughts on this?
Regards
Alex

Alex I would not buy a peanut from this  seller  Try  Willy has a welding supply shop 31/1353 The Horsley Drive
WETHERILL PARK, NSW  Great prices ......Loves Cash ......FC427.........

[customFC]

Hey Mark
Thanks for the info.
Looks like he carries the Unimig and CIG ranges.
http://www.wnweldingsupplies.com.au/gallery/WELDING%2BHELMETS
I will try him through the week if I get a chance, to compare prices.
Regards
Alex

[RET]

Hi Alex,

Does Geoff from Lithgow stock that sort of equipment? Might be worth a call for a price/advice.

cheers
RET

[GMB-58FC]

Personally Id never buy a helmet online unless its something I've previously tried on/used before hand and know it is the right fit for me.

Everyone's head is different and finding the right one for you isn't always straight forward (I tried on about 7 different helmets till I was happy)  Also if money is tight at the moment, hold off till you can spend a little more rather than buying "cheap" because that's all you can afford at the time.

I had a cheap helmet once and the auto system on it failed very quickly and the delay was terrible, you only have one set of eyes and flash is not fun!!!

[Ed]

Hey Alex,

I use a "speedglass" helmet, it's served me well for over 15 years now, and the only thing I have had to replace is the head band and lens covers.  The lens recharges by itself as there is a solar panel.. I guess this is the norm for all helmets these days.

the performance of the helmet should be to Aust Stds and should have a certifying mark.

even if my lens doesnt darken in time (which can happen if you need to work away from your work.. eg upside down welding in a wheel well etc), the lens is still dark enough to prevent severe flash.

Make sure you can get spare lens covers and buy a packet of 10 when you get the helmet, they are consumable.

if I had to buy a new helmet, i would want a larger window not that I ever feel restricted anyway, and the option to have a grinding mode to save time removing helmet, putting on glasses etc etc.

and some fancy graphics would be awesome... but that's not really money well spent.


Hope this helps.

[Ed]

link for some useful info

http://www.eweld.com.au/blogs/news/tagged/auto-welding-lenses

[customFC]

Bought myself one of these Unimig Razorback helmets.

Picked it up at WN Welding at a price that was $28 less than anywhere else. Thanks for the tip Mark.
Works great. Having a freehand and a larger viewing area makes all the difference to my welding ability.
Regards
Alex

[FCRB26]

Also you can fit magnafaction lenses If your eye sight plays up.

[customFC]

Thanks for the tip Pete.
There is enough room in there to keep the glasses on if needed.
Regards
Alex

[FC427]

Bought myself one of these Unimig Razorback helmets.

Picked it up at WN Welding at a price that was $28 less than anywhere else. Thanks for the tip Mark.
Works great. Having a freehand and a larger viewing area makes all the difference to my welding ability.
Regards
Alex

Nice Alex  whats next  a Kemppi  MLS .....FC427.....

[Spinner]

Pity you've already got one.  This looks pretty cool.