which helmet should i buy

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wich helmet should i buy im going to harbor freights tommorow but dont know which helmet to get heres the link   http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...%20ACCESSORIESwhich model number should i get 1. 91214-1VGA 2. 91212-1VGA3. 46092-7VGA
Reply:I have a harbor freight autodarkening helmet.  I really liked it, when I got it.  Then I purchased a lincoln at a pawn shop.  There is no comparison.  I still use the hf in the field and when it gets dark outside I notice how slow it is in reacting to the arc strike ( I frequently get flashed).  Also, unless harbor freight sell replacement lense then you will have difficulty finding replacements lenses.  Perhaps somebody on this forum can suggest where to get them.It is better than a non a/d helmet.  It have had my HF for 2yrs and it still works, though the headgear is now broken.  Oh yeah the headgear never really did function properly.  The helmet has suffered some abuse since being relegated to in field use only, yet the A/D function still works, even though I can't see through it because I need a new lense.I can't say I would ever pay 200+ dollars for a helmet, though you might want to check other helmets.  I paid $25 for my lincoln.
Reply:which others auto dark helmets are in the 50.00 price range
Reply:Just my $.02.   Your eyes are worth a heck of a lot more than $50.    Whatever you spend, do the research and get an A/D helmet with a quick and RELIABLE reaction time.   Only look into A/D units that use batteries, don't trust the solar ones.I spent about $180 for a plain black Jackson Helmet with an EQC Master Variable HTLS lens and I'm glad I did.  The reaction time is 1/25,000 of a second.   When I was shopping around, I noticed that the HF helmets didn't list any reaction speed.   My lens also has adjustments for shade and dark to light delay.There are no small projects
Reply:I think the hf will be a start.  I think you are protected from uv-rays at all times and the flash is not noticeable in the light.  I don't think for the small amount I use it there will be any ill effects.  Notice "I think...." If you are only doing occasional welding then go for the HF.  Any type of real work then spend the extra money.  I got mine second hand.
Reply:i just bought the hf auto dark helmet it works a whole lot better than the mask that came with the welder well worth the 50.00 thanks for the helpjohn
Reply:i also tried my buddys hobart auto dark helmet he bought it at sears 199.99 vs the one i bought at hf for 50 cant tell the diffrence they both respond as quickly to the light the only diffrence is the hobart better quality