• Most Expensive Option
• 12.5 square inch viewing area
• Includes replacement lenses, bandana, and helmet bag
• Reputable manufacturer

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Optical Clarity

The 4C Lens Technology in the Viking 3350 Series provides unparalleled optical clarity, with a 1/1/1/1 rating that minimizes imperfections and distortion. The true-color view significantly improves my welding accuracy and reduces eye strain, allowing me to work for extended periods without discomfort.

A 1/1/1/1 rating refers to the optical clarity rating of an auto-darkening welding helmet lens. This rating system is based on the EN379 standard, a European standard for evaluating the quality of auto-darkening welding filters. The rating consists of four separate categories, each scored on a scale from 1 to 3, with 1 being the best and 3 being the least desirable.

The four categories are:

• Optical Class: This category evaluates the lens’s overall optical clarity and the accuracy of the light transmission. A score of 1 in this category indicates minimal distortion and the best possible clarity.
• Light Diffusion: This category measures the scattered light that passes through the lens. A score of 1 means the lens has minimal light scattering, providing a clearer and sharper view of the welding area.
• Variations in Luminous Transmittance: This category assesses the consistency of the shade across the lens. A score of 1 indicates that the lens has a uniform shade, ensuring consistent eye protection and a better view of the workpiece.
• Angle Dependence of Luminous Transmittance: This category measures how the shade changes when viewed from different angles. A score of 1 means the lens maintains a consistent shade when viewed from various angles, providing consistent protection and visibility.

Viewing Area

With a generous 3.74″ x 3.34″ viewing area, the Viking 3350 Series allows me to easily see my workpiece, improving my welding precision and overall workflow. The auto-darkening feature is responsive and reliable, darkening the lens in a fraction of a second when an arc is struck.

Comfort

The helmet’s lightweight construction and well-designed headgear system make it comfortable for long periods. The adjustable fit is secure, and I don’t experience unnecessary pressure points or slippage while working.

This photo shows the adjustable fit on the inside of the helmet:

Durability and Build Quality

The Viking 3350 Series is made with high-quality materials, ensuring it withstands the demands of a professional welding environment. I’ve been using this helmet daily for several months, and it shows no wear and tear.

Lincoln Electric is renowned for producing some of the highest quality welding products available, and this helmet is no exception.

Battery Life

The solar-powered battery has a long life and requires minimal maintenance. It charges while I work, so I never have to worry about the battery dying on me in the middle of a project.

The Lincoln Electric Viking 3350 Series welding helmet features a solar-powered battery with an assisted replaceable lithium battery (typically a CR2450 battery). The solar panel charges the battery while you work, ensuring continuous power for the auto-darkening filter.

Although the exact battery life varies depending on usage, ambient light conditions, and the quality of the replaceable lithium battery, assisted solar power can provide a considerably long battery life. In many cases, users can expect the replaceable lithium battery to last between 1-3 years, depending on the frequency of use and the environment in which it is used.

Price

While the Viking 3350 Series may be considered a premium-priced helmet, I believe its exceptional optical clarity, comfort, and durability make it well worth the investment.

Key Features

The Lincoln Electric Viking 3350 Series welding helmet has features that make it an outstanding choice for professional and hobbyist welders. Here is a summary of the key features that set this helmet apart from its competitors:

• 4C Lens Technology: The 4C Lens Technology provides a 1/1/1/1 optical clarity rating, reducing distortion and ensuring a true-color view. This technology minimizes eye strain and improves welding accuracy.
• Large Viewing Area: With a 3.74″ x 3.34″ viewing area, the Viking 3350 Series offers excellent visibility, allowing greater precision and control during welding tasks.
• Auto-Darkening: The helmet’s auto-darkening feature is responsive and reliable, darkening the lens in a fraction of a second when an arc is struck. This protects the welder’s eyes from harmful UV and IR rays.
• Grind Mode: The grind mode allows welders to switch between welding and grinding tasks without removing the helmet, increasing productivity and safety.
• Sensitivity and Delay Settings: The helmet’s sensitivity and delay settings are easily adjustable, allowing welders to find the perfect balance for each type of welding process.

Field Testing

As part of my evaluation of the Lincoln Electric Viking 3350 Series welding helmet, I conducted field testing in various real-world welding environments. The testing included MIG, TIG, stick welding, and plasma cutting and grinding tasks. This comprehensive assessment allowed me to determine the helmet’s performance in different situations and its ability to adapt to various applications.

During MIG and TIG welding, the Viking 3350’s optical clarity and true-color view made it easy to see the weld pool and maintain consistent welds. The auto-darkening feature performed flawlessly, protecting my eyes from harmful UV and IR rays.

While stick welding, the helmet’s large viewing area provided excellent visibility, allowing me to maintain a proper arc length and avoid defects in my welds. Additionally, the helmet’s sensitivity and delay settings were easily adjustable, enabling me to find the perfect balance for each type of welding process.

During plasma cutting and grinding tasks, the grind mode was invaluable. With a quick switch, I could transition seamlessly between welding and grinding without removing the helmet or changing equipment, greatly improving my efficiency and safety.

The helmet’s comfort and secure fit remained consistent throughout the field testing, even during long work sessions. The lightweight design and adjustable headgear system helped to minimize fatigue and allowed me to focus on my work without distraction.

Things I Didn’t Like

While I do like this helmet, there are some key disadvantages I need to point out.

The Viking 3350 Series is considered a premium welding helmet, and its price may be higher than other options available. The cost might be a significant concern for those on a tight budget.

With multiple adjustable settings and features, some users may find the helmet more complex than simpler welding helmets—those who prefer a more straightforward, basic helmet might not appreciate the additional settings and options.

In some cases, the auto-darkening feature may be sensitive to ambient light, causing it to darken unintentionally. This could potentially disrupt workflow or require adjustments to the sensitivity settings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Lincoln Electric Viking 3350 Series welding helmet is an outstanding choice for professional and hobbyist welders. The top-notch optical clarity, large viewing area, and comfortable fit make it a pleasure to use, while the durable construction ensures it will last for years. I highly recommend the Viking 3350 Series to anyone needing a reliable, high-quality welding helmet.

The post Lincoln Electric Viking 3350 Series Welding Helmet Review appeared first on Beginner Welding Guide.

The Antra AH6 Auto Darkening Helmet is my top choice because of its excellent performance with an affordable price tag. It features 4 to 13 shade variable lenses and a 6.68 square inch viewing area. It is ideal for beginner welders looking to get a safe and reliable welding helmet without blowing their budget.

However, the welding helmet and its lenses for filtering out the brilliant light and UV rays created by the welding arc is the most important equipment a welder uses. The modern welding helmet has many advantages over those used just 25 years ago.

Modern helmets have features that allow the beginner to weld with much-improved accuracy and enjoyment. Since space-age electronics and larger viewing areas have been introduced, most have no going back.

For those of you looking for quick information, here are my top three welding helmets for beginners.

Best Overall

Lincoln Electric Viking Auto Darkening Welding Helmet

• Large 12.5 Square Inch Auto Darkening Lens
• Premium Optics with a Crystal Clear View
• Comfortable Adjustable X6 Headgear
• 3 Year Warranty

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Best Value for Money

Antra AH6 Auto Darkening Welding Helmet

• Full Face and Neck Protection
• Highly Responsive Arc Sensors
• Extremely Lightweight Design for Reduced Muscle Fatigue
• Sonar Panels Extend Battery Life

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Best on a Budget

YESWELDER Solar Powered Auto Darkening Welding Helmet

• Suitable For TIG, MIG, MMA
• 8 Square Inch Viewing Area
• Comes with Replacement Lenses
• Comfortable Pivot Style Headgear
• Get 10% Off with Discount Code 'BWG' at Yeswelder.com

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For this review, I have considered that a beginner may rapidly make several high-cost purchases to start welding. Meaning, the budget may be a little tight at the moment.

However, a good investment in a helmet now will pay huge dividends for many years. The right helmet will greatly improve your welding experience.

Read through my instructions on how to use a welding helmet if you are a beginner.

1. Antra AH6-260-0000

• Full Face and Neck Protection
• Highly Responsive Arc Sensors
• Extremely Lightweight Design for Reduced Muscle Fatigue
• Sonar Panels Extend Battery Life

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The Antra AH6-260 welding helmet offers many features at a reasonable price. It’s difficult not to take a closer look at it because it has several characteristics found in much more expensive helmets.

It has a variable shade lens ranging from 4 to 13 to cover almost any welding, cutting, or grinding work without changing hoods or goggles between jobs. The ability to filter light at the optimal level for welders improves job quality and decreases eye strain. Usually, more expensive helmets have a wider shade range that can be adjusted.

While the Antra has extra inner and outer lenses, there are a few add-ons and replacement parts that may be useful, including:

• Exterior lens covers
• Inner lens covers
• Head Gear
• Hard hat adapter
• Sweat Band
• Auto Darkening Lens
• Cheater Lens

features

• Auto Darkening – Yes
• Grinder Shade Setting – Yes
• Adjustable Shade Range(s) – 4/5-9/9-13
• ANSI Certified – Yes
• Adjustable Delay – Yes
• Adjustable Sensitivity – Yes
• Viewing Area – 3.86” x 1.73” or 6.68 square inches
• Extra Lenses – Yes

Pros:

Lower Cost, Lots of features, including replacement lenses

Cons:

Small viewing area

I wrote a more detailed review about Antra AH6-260 welding helmer, you might find interesting

2. DEKOPRO Welding Helmet

• Auto-darkening filter switches from light to dark in 1/25000 sec
• Protects against UV and IR radiation
• Sensitivity and delay settings
• Comfortable and adjustable headgear

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The DEKOPRO Welding Helmet is a top-of-the-line safety device designed for professional welders and hobbyists. This welding helmet combines comfort, safety, and advanced technology to provide an optimal welding experience.

features

• Auto Darkening – Yes
• Grinder Shade Setting – Yes
• Adjustable Shade Range(s) – 4/9-13
• ANSI Certified – Yes
• Adjustable Delay – Yes
• Adjustable Sensitivity – Yes
• Viewing Area – 3.62” x 1.65” or 5.97 square inches
• Extra Lenses – No

Pros:

Tied for the lowest cost in the group, good features

Cons:

Small viewing area, No replacement lenses included

3. Lincoln Electric VIKING 3350 Welding Helmet

• Most Expensive Option
• 12.5 square inch viewing area
• Includes replacement lenses, bandana, and helmet bag
• Reputable manufacturer

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The Lincoln 3350 Welding Helmet is a premium alternative built to meet the rigorous demands of professional welders, ensuring exceptional safety, comfort, and performance.

This high-quality helmet has a 4C auto-darkening lens technology, providing unrivaled clarity and color perception, reducing eye strain and enhancing the overall welding experience. The large 12.5 square inch viewing area and its 1/1/1/1 optical rating allow for superior visibility and precision during intricate welding tasks.

features

• Auto Darkening – Yes
• Grinder Shade Setting – Yes
• Adjustable Shade Range(s) – 3.5/5-13
• ANSI Certified – Yes
• Adjustable Delay – Yes
• Adjustable Sensitivity – Yes
• Viewing Area – 3.74” x 3.34” or 12.49 square inches
• Extra Lenses – Yes, plus helmet bag and bandana

Pros:

Largest viewing area of the group, all the best features including replacement lenses, bandana and helmet bag, well-known manufacturer

Cons:

Most expensive in group

4. Antra AH7-360-000 Welding Helmet

• Upgraded Version of the Antra AH6
• Power Off Delay
• 4 Premium Redundant Arc Sensors
• Suitable for Plasma Cutting, Grinding, TIG, MIG, Stick Welding

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The Antra AH7 Welding Helmet is an advanced and versatile piece of personal protective equipment designed for welders, offering a perfect combination of safety, comfort, and functionality. This state-of-the-art helmet features an auto-darkening lens that adjusts its shade level instantly in response to varying light conditions, ensuring that the welder’s eyes are consistently shielded from harmful UV and IR radiation.

The lightweight yet durable construction of the AH7 provides optimal comfort for extended periods of use, while the 4 arc sensors and wide viewing area ensure optimal visibility and responsiveness during various welding tasks.

Additionally, the helmet’s solar-powered design and replaceable battery backup ensure consistent performance and longevity. With its user-friendly interface and customizable settings, the Antra AH7 Welding Helmet is ideal for novice and experienced welders.

The Antra AH7 Welding Helmet builds upon the success of its predecessor, the AH6, by introducing several notable improvements and refinements, making it a more advanced and user-friendly option for welders. While both models offer auto-darkening lenses, the AH7 boasts a larger viewing area, providing better visibility and situational awareness during welding. The AH7 also features 4 arc sensors compared to the AH6’s 2, resulting in a quicker and more accurate response to changing light conditions.

features

• Auto Darkening – Yes
• Grinder Shade Setting – Yes
• Adjustable Shade Range(s) – 4/5-9/9-13
• ANSI Certified – Yes
• Adjustable Delay – Yes
• Adjustable Sensitivity – Yes
• Viewing Area – 3.86” x 2.07” or 7.99 square inches
• Extra Lenses – Yes

Pros:

Lower price, Slightly larger viewing area than the Anthra AH6-260, and Lots of features, including replacement lenses

Cons:

Smaller viewing area, but getting there

5. Miller Auto Darkening Welding Helmet

• Includes replacement lenses and helmet bag
• 7 square inch viewing area
• Unique Flame Graphic Design
• Ratchet Headgear

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The Miller Electric Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet is premium option designed to provide maximum safety, comfort, and performance for professional welders.

Renowned for its superior lens technology, this helmet ensures exceptional clarity, color perception, and fast reaction times, effectively safeguarding the user’s eyes from harmful UV and IR radiation during welding.

The adjustable headgear provides a secure and customizable fit, accommodating welders with different head sizes and preferences. It has user-friendly controls to adjust sensitivity, delay, and shade settings.

features

• Auto Darkening – Yes
• Grinder Shade Setting – Yes
• Adjustable Shade Range(s) – 3/5-8/8-13
• ANSI Certified – Yes
• Adjustable Delay – Yes
• Adjustable Sensitivity – Yes
• Viewing Area – 3.8” x 1.9” or 7.22 square inches
• Extra Lenses – Yes, with Helmet Bag

Pros: 

Most of the best features include replacement lenses and helmet bag, from a well known manufacturer

Cons:

Smaller viewing area, second highest priced in group

6. iMeshbean Pro Welding helmet

• Affordable Alternative
• Can be used for Arc, Mag, Mig, Mma, Stick & Tig Welding, or Plasma Cutting
• Includes Two Extra Lenses
• Stunning Graphic Design

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The iMeshbean Pro Welding Helmet is a reliable and budget-friendly option for welders seeking protection and functionality without breaking the bank. Designed to cater to a variety of welding applications such as MIG, TIG, and stick welding, this helmet features an auto-darkening lens that quickly adjusts to changing light conditions, ensuring consistent eye protection from harmful UV and IR radiation.

With its generous viewing area, welders can enjoy enhanced visibility and precision during their tasks.

features

• Auto Darkening – Yes
• Grinder Shade Setting – Yes
• Adjustable Shade Range(s) – 4/9-13
• ANSI Certified – Yes
• Adjustable Delay – Yes
• Adjustable Sensitivity – Yes
• Viewing Area – 3.8 x 1.9 inch
• Extra Lenses – Yes

Pros:

Low cost, good features, two extra lenses included

Cons:

Small viewing area

7. Miller Electric Welding Helmet

• Leading Manufacturer Of High-Quality Products
• Middle of the Road Cost and Features
• Smaller Viewing Area
• Includes Replacement Lenses

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Known for its exceptional build quality and advanced features, this helmet offers a superior welding experience, enabling users to work with precision and confidence.

This is a middle-of-the-road welding helmet built by a reputable manufacturer. You can trust their workmanship and ensure safe welding performance without breaking the bank.

The Miller Electric Welding Helmet is a testament to the company’s dedication to providing innovative, reliable, and user-centric solutions for the welding industry.

Features

• Auto Darkening – Yes
• Grinder Shade Setting – No
• Adjustable Shade Range(s) – 8-12
• ANSI Certified – Yes
• Adjustable Delay – Yes
• Adjustable Sensitivity – Yes
• Viewing Area – 5.15 square inches
• Extra Lenses – Yes

Pros: 

Decent features, Middle of the road cost, Includes replacement lenses

Cons: 

Small viewing area, No grinder shade setting

8. DEKOPRO with Wide Lens

• Up to 5000 hours Battery Life
• 12.5 square inch viewing area
• No replacement lenses included
• Affordable price tag and reasonable features

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This is a versatile and budget-friendly personal protective equipment option designed to provide a high level of safety, comfort, and performance for welders across various applications. This helmet features a large viewing area with an auto-darkening lens, ensuring excellent visibility, clarity, and protection,

features

• Auto Darkening – Yes
• Grinder Shade Setting – Yes
• Adjustable Shade Range(s) – 4/9-13
• ANSI Certified – Yes
• Adjustable Delay – Yes
• Adjustable Sensitivity – Yes
• Viewing Area – 3.2” x 3.9” or 12.48 square inches
• Extra Lenses – No

Pros: 

Virtually same sized viewing area as the largest in the group, Decent pricing, Good features

Cons: 

No Replacement lenses included

9. YESWELDER True Color Welding Helmet

• Suitable For TIG, MIG, MMA
• 8 Square Inch Viewing Area
• Comes with Replacement Lenses
• Comfortable Pivot Style Headgear

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This helmet features groundbreaking True Color technology, which provides exceptional clarity and color perception, significantly reducing eye strain and improving the overall welding experience.

The adjustable headgear ensures a secure and customizable fit for welders of different head sizes.

The YESWELDER True Color Welding Helmet has become a popular choice by prioritising innovation, quality, and user satisfaction.

Features

• Auto Darkening – Yes
• Grinder Shade Setting – Yes
• Adjustable Shade Range(s) – 4/9-13
• ANSI Certified – Yes
• Adjustable Delay – Yes
• Adjustable Sensitivity – Yes
• Viewing Area – 3.64″ x 1.67″ or 6.0 square inches
• Extra Lenses – No

Pros: 

Low Cost, Great features

Cons: 

Smaller viewing area, No replacement lenses included

10. Jackson Safety Insight

• True Color and 1/1/1/1 Optical Clarity
• Digital Control
• 9.3 square inch Viewing Area
• Middle of the road cost and features

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The Jackson Safety Insight is a high-quality and dependable welding helmet designed to provide exceptional safety, comfort, and performance for welders across various applications. Engineered with advanced auto-darkening lens technology, this helmet offers rapid response times and reliable protection.

I rate it as an average option with good features and a larger than average viewing area and at a reasonable cost. There are no premium features but it is still a suitable helmet.

Features

• Auto Darkening – Yes
• Grinder Shade Setting – Yes
• Adjustable Shade Range(s) – 4/9-13
• ANSI Certified – Yes
• Adjustable Delay – Yes
• Adjustable Sensitivity – Yes
• Viewing Area – 2.36” x 3.93” or 9.27 square inches
• Extra Lenses – No

Pros: 

Middle of the road cost, Good features, Larger than average viewing area

Cons: 

No replacement lenses included

Frequently Asked Questions

Read Next

• Why do welders wear welding caps?
• How to Weld D-Rings
• How to Use a Plasma Cutter
• Best Welding Machine for Beginners
• Best Welding Helmets for the Beginner
• What is a pancake welding hood?
• Best Gadgets for the Hobby Welder
• Are auto-darkening welding helmets safe?

The post 10 Best Welding Helmets for Beginners + Buying Guide appeared first on Beginner Welding Guide.

• Full Face and Neck Protection
• Highly Responsive Arc Sensors
• Extremely Lightweight Design for Reduced Muscle Fatigue
• Sonar Panels Extend Battery Life

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What is a welding helmet used for?

The welding helmet is one of the most recognizable and important pieces of hardware a welder has in his arsenal. A helmet should be comfortable and protect the face, eyes, and skin from welding spatter and sparks. But more importantly, the helmet should also protect the eyes from vision-damaging ultraviolet and infrared rays emitted by the arc.

At the same time, the helmet must allow the welder to effectively see the weld pool clearly. Many modern welding helmets have variable shade adjustments that allow the helmet to be used while cutting with a plasma cutter or an oxy/acetylene torch and when using a grinder. This makes the modern helmet much more versatile than its predecessors.

What features does the Antra AH6-260 welding helmet have?

Introduced in 1981, the auto-darkening lens was an industry-changing innovation after it became mainstream. The welding industry has experienced many innovations in the last few decades, but this feature ranks with the best. The ability to see and set the weld pieces up in front of you utilizing both hands before the welding begins is a great asset.

Before the auto-darkening lens, the welder would need to flip a lens with their offhand or do the head nod trick and hope the helmet flips perfectly in front of their eyes. The result of the auto-darkening helmet has been better welds, less physical fatigue and time saved.

The four light sensors on this helmet allow for the more efficient pick up of light from the arc, which triggers the darkening process. This must be compared to lesser helmets with only 2 or 3 sensors. In addition to four light sensors, the Antra AH6-260 has two additional adjustments for fine-tuning purposes. One regulates the light level at which the darkening process will be triggered (sensitivity). The other will regulate the speed at which the lens returns from dark to light after sensing the light generated by the arc is no longer there (delay).

The Antra AH6-260 has a variable shade lens that adjusts from a low of 4 to a high of 13, covering just about any welding, cutting or grinding job without having to switch to a different hood or goggles between jobs. The ability to filter the light at a level best suited for the welder increases work quality and reduces eye strain. This wide adjustable shade range is usually reserved for more expensive helmets.

A cheater or magnifying lens holder is standard for those whose eyesight may need a little help for close-up work. A magnifying lens may nullify the need for the welder to wear eyeglasses while welding. However, there is plenty of room for most to wear eyeglasses underneath the hood if needed.

ANSI Standards

The 15 oz. lightweight helmet is made from high-impact polyamide nylon and will operate in temperature ranges from 14°F-131°F. All welding helmets must meet strict safety standards around the world. For instance, the United States standard is ANSI Z87.1. In Canada, it is CAN/CSA Z94.3.

These standards address light leakage, flame resistance, and impact resistance. The standard requires that auto-darkening helmets provide full protection against UV and IR even when not in the darkened state. The standard is voluntary, so buyers should confirm that the helmet is ANSI Z87.1 compliant. The Antra AH6-260 meets standards ANSI Z87.1, EN379 CE, and CSA Z94.3.

While the Antra comes with extra inner and outer lenses, there are a few add-ons and replacement parts that might come in handy such as:

• Exterior lens covers
• Inner lens covers
• Head Gear
• Hard hat adapter
• Sweat Band
• Auto Darkening Lens
• Cheater Lens

It also comes with a one-year warranty.

How does the auto-darkening feature work?

The auto-darkening welding helmets have an LCD or liquid crystal display lens sandwiched between two polarizing lenses like those used in some sunglasses. The process gets complicated but has to do with the LCD mechanism and its ability to rotate the light rays 90 degrees between the polarized lenses.

When unrotated (default position), the light rays are undisturbed. After rotating, much of the light is blocked.

How to adjust the sensitivity and delay settings?

The auto darkening delay and sensitivity adjustments are there so the operator can set the helmet up for the job. The delay setting should be set at a level the user finds most comfortable. The delay setting is often most noticeable when the arc is erratic. For instance, if you are making several tacks on a large project, a short delay will speed up the process.

On the other hand, a longer delay is useful when welding with higher amperages leaving the weld still red hot for a short time after the welding process has stopped. The still red-hot metal emits harmful UV rays until it cools.

The same can be said about the sensitivity setting. The sensitivity should be turned all the way up to begin with. Once comfortable, the user can begin reducing the sensitivity until they find the best setting. The sensitivity setting can be useful when welding with very low amperage settings causing the light emitted to be relatively low, such as when low amp TIG welding.

Never use a self-darkening lens that is not working properly. Eye damage can occur.

How do you correctly set the variable shade lens?

The welder should always start on the high end of the recommended shade or filter setting for the type of job being performed.

Then, make small adjustments until the most comfortable setting is found. The most comfortable setting is usually between enough light coming through to see the weld pool clearly, being able to take the weld where you want it to go, and yet continuing to protect your eyes.

Recommended shade ranges for various types of welding depending on amperages are as follows:

• Stick – 9-13
• MIG – 10-13
• MIG Aluminum – 10-13
• Flux-Core – 10-13
• TIG – 9-13

Pros

• Lightweight
• Low cost
• Great shading range
• Auto Darkening
• Comfortable
• 4 Sensors
• Extra Lenses
• Lots of Great Reviews
• Optical Clarity
• One Year Warranty

Cons

• Battery life has been an issue with some units sold
• The auto-darkening function has been an issue with a small number of units sold
• The helmet shell is a little flimsy
• Headgear fasteners tend to loosen and stop holding the helmet in the up position
• Headgear is on the flimsy side
• Smaller viewing area

Conclusion

A great helmet for the price. But, if you are hard on equipment or work in challenging environments, this may not be the helmet for you. Chances are this helmet will last the weekend warrior hobby welder several years if taken care of.

Anyone who plans on using a helmet more frequently and for extended periods may want to consider a more robust helmet. The higher-end helmets will cost more, and you may be able to afford three of the Antra AH6-260’s for the same price as one higher-end helmet.

Read More

• Best Welding Helmets for the Beginner
• Which is Best Footwear for Welding?
• How to select Welding Amperage?
• The Best Welding Machine for Beginners
• What is a pancake welding hood?

The post Antra AH6-260 Welding Helmet Review appeared first on Beginner Welding Guide.

How does the Uvex Bionic Face Shield Compare?

Unlike the typical, cheap plastic face shield, which is only secured across the top to the headband, the Uvex Bionic face shield is built with a sturdy, black plastic frame that surrounds the face. It extends partially over the top of the head and protects the lower chin.

Anything impacting the old-style face shield could easily deform the lower portion due to little to no structural support for the lower 75% of the shield. Not so with the Uvex shield. This shield has been well thought out in its design. With its built-in chin protection and extended top-of-head coverage, you are protected against not only flying debris, impacts, and splashes, but the front portion of the top of the head is protected from bumps and objects from above.

The hard hat adapter, designed to fit multiple hard hat designs, can be easily attached for total head protection. To boot, the Uvex Bionic Face Shield can safely be used when working near electrical equipment since it is 100% dielectric. (No metal parts)   

• Full shield design
• Built-in chin protection and extended top-of-head coverage
• Protects against falling or flying objects, impacts, chemical splashes and airborne debris
• Excellent optics provide increased visibility

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How well-designed are the optics of the Uvex Bionic Face Shield?

Since Uvex is a Honeywell product, the impact resistance of the optics is only surpassed by the clarity of their Bionic Face Shield. The clear polycarbonate visor also comes with an anti-fog hard coat to ensure clear vision in any work environment. The majority of all UV rays from welding are blocked. Even though Uvex visors meet ANSI Z87+ and CSA Z94.3 standards, keep in mind that all face shields should be worn in conjunction with goggles or safety glasses.

The visor portion can easily be replaced if scratched or damaged. This allows you to swap in a visor with a different tint. It helps to extend the life of the face shield. Replacement visors come in Clear Uncoated, Clear Anti-Fog/Anti-Scratch (Hard Coated), Shade 3.0 and Shade 5.0.

Since the shield is shipped with the visor in place, it is best to remove it before using it so that the plastic protective films can be removed from the front and back sides. This is accomplished by popping the lens off the plastic pin at the bottom center. Then, slide the lens up while pulling the bottom edge out of frame.

The lightweight construction ensures that fatigue is held at bay when long work periods are necessary. The balanced, ergonomic design follows the contour of the jawbone down and around the lower chin for full face protection. Peripheral vision is very good through the extra large viewing area. There is little to no distortion from the curved visor like you will find in the cheaper manufactured face shields.

How well-designed is the Headgear of the Uvex Bionic Face Shield?

Anyone who has worn a hard hat will find the Uvex Bionic head gear familiar. At least the portion that secures the headgear to your head.

Out of the box, the headgear is unattached. This allows the user to choose from the many settings available to custom fit for the greatest function and comfort. When attaching, keep in mind there are two closeness settings. One will keep the visor closer to the face, the other will provide more room for goggles or a respirator.

The user has four choices for how far the shield will flip downward before it stops. This helps accommodate different-sized head and face shapes and adjust to how the shield will be used most of the time: Looking down, straightforward or looking up, for instance.

Additionally, a band stretches across the top of the head, adjusting for how high or low the headgear will ride on the user’s head.

The adjustable headband ratchets up snuggly by simply pushing in and twisting the knob. Once it’s set, the headgear will stay securely on your head until you are ready for it to come off. Over and above that, it includes a strip of cell foam in the rear, and a removable cloth covering that helps wick up moisture where it contacts the forehead in the front.

When should face shields be worn?

The potential for eye and skin damage is everywhere in the welding world. A quality face shield protects from flying sparks from grinders and their many attachments. Chipping hammers and wire brushes can send debris sailing through the air. Cutting torches send molten metal and slag in all directions. Being near someone else performing this type of work necessitates the onlooker to don face shielding.

Aside from welding, a face shield is a necessary safeguard when woodworking and a thousand other chores – even when working on automobiles. Especially if you need to crawl under one to perform a job, looking up underneath a vehicle is begging for dirt and rust to fall into your eyes.

If you often use spray lubricants carburetor cleaners, or brake cleaners coming out at high pressures from a can, the splatter will be stopped before getting to your face and eyes only if you are wearing a shield. No matter the application, they allow users to get close to their work. Closer than the typical user would dare without shielding. This typically results in a better quality job in the end.

Pros 

• The Bionic Face Shield is so clear and lightweight enough that you may very well forget you have it on from time to time.
• Comfort and Fit are high due to the plethora of adjustments that can be made to the headgear.
• An assortment of replacement visors is available, including tinted visors.
• The anti-fogging lens is very useful in cooler temperatures.
• It has extra protection for the chin, neck and upper forehead compared to more modest shields
• It can be easily attached to most hardhats on the market
• It looks nice

Cons

• The cost is higher than some, but the extra value provided offsets the price

Conclusion

First of all, let me say that I believe face shields are underutilized across the spectrum. If everyone had access to a clear, lightweight yet sturdy face shield, I believe there would be fewer injuries in the workplace and hobby shop.

Related Posts

• Will welding damage my eyes?
• Protective Equipment Essentials for the Beginner Welder
• Types of Welding
• What do I need to start welding?
• Which is Best Footwear for Welding?
• 10 Best Welding Helmets for the Beginner

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