Helmet - help me make a choice

admin

I am an occasional stick welder... working on my lawn service equipment and trailers primarily.  I have narrowed my search for a new auto darkening helmet (my old ARC 1 bit the dust.)  I can buy a Miller Elite for around $215 after rebate, or a Jackson NexGen with HSL100 for $261.  Which would you professionals recommend, and your reasoning?
Reply:Since you said you are an occasional stick welder I am going to assume that you do not get much demand for welding except for your own stuff. Maybe a few times you might get some welding for friends. I have a Jackson NextGen and had a Miller Elite but by standby helmet is the Harbor Freight Auto darkening helmet. Buy on sale or with coupon $39,95. you'll find many welders here use the same full time.Co-Own CNC shop:Miller :1251 plasma cutter, MaxStar 700 TIG/Stick, & XMT 456 Multiprocess Welder.&  2 Hypertherm HPR260's Plasma CutterSorry I had a bad stroke but now I am back.
Reply:Personal preference at that point.  I own the Jackson, and I feel it's the best AD lens I've ever used (other companies make more comfortable/ergo friendly hoods, but I don't think the lens is as good).  While the Miller is getting more common, the Jackson also uses the same outer cover lens at the standard fixed shade hoods, so they're cheap and can be found anywhere in a pinch.
Reply:go old school man forget autodarkening unless you plan on doing tig work. your not going to weld all day long,youll be cutting grass all day so just get a good one with a large lens hey thanks for asking us by ''professionals'
Reply:I have a speedglas, and its nice. The Nex gen has a nice big window that I like, and is comfortable. The Miller is also a good hood. Ford, Chevy, Dodge you know?You are doing occasional welding so get whatever you want. The Harbor freight hoods are cheap. They also darken when you dont want them to. Get a good hood and have fun.
Reply:I use the Harbor Freight helmet.  I got it over 5 years ago on sale for around $40 I think.  It hasn't failed me yet.  I can't see spending $250 for a helmet for occasional use.  Get the cheap one from HF, spend the rest on more steel to play with!