Cheapest helmet from reputable brand for beginner

[Chris Rourke]

Hi all, this is my first post on any welding forum and I have absolutely no experience. I understand the basic principles of what's involved in welding and bought my first-ever yesterday, it's a Snap On/Cebora 2135 (or it might be 2315) MIG welder.

Basically I'm raring to get going with it but want all the correct safety gear first hence my question. I've bought some decent welding gloves, I'll be getting a welding hat (as I've got relatively long hair and would like it to stay that way!), But my question is, how much should I be spending on a welding helmet and what's my cheapest but safest option?

Many thanks,
Chris

 

[ukracer]

I have this one http://www.r-techwelding.co.uk/Weld..._masks/welding_helmet_xl_light_reactive_rtech. I like it because it enables me to see the job before I strike up but it is still clear during the weld.

 

[gordon stephenson]

Check out Weldequip, the member with a welding supply shop, only stocks good gear and gets very good reviews, Contact thro' the link at the top right of the home page,

 

[BrokenBiker]

another vote for the r-tech. Although my first auto dark mask cost around 14 quid off eBay and worked fine

 

[Steve Gray]

Hi guys, I know this is an old thread but was wondering if anyone can point me in the direction of where I can find these masks, as all the above links/suppliers seem to be out of stock!! cheers

Forgot to mention, anybody have experience with this company??

http://www.ten-uk.com/true-fusionhelme.html

 

[waldershelf]

Hi guys, I know this is an old thread but was wondering if anyone can point me in the direction of where I can find these masks, as all the above links/suppliers seem to be out of stock!! cheers

Forgot to mention, anybody have experience with this company??

http://www.ten-uk.com/true-fusionhelme.html

I've got one of theirs, from their EBAy shop. It wasn't expensive and it works fine.

 

[Steve Gray]

Thanks, ill have a look later

 

[BrokenBiker]

i had one and it lasted well until i stood on it. I have an r tech hat, and a cheapo auto dark that i have converted to shade 10 mineral glass, i dunno why i just prefer it lol. Auto dark is nice for tacking up but i much prefer a mineral glass lens when doing long runs, especially with stick

 

[shugie97]

I just bought a parweld one for £45 it is what most people use.

 

[Steve Gray]

i had one and it lasted well until i stood on it. I have an r tech hat, and a cheapo auto dark that i have converted to shade 10 mineral glass, i dunno why i just prefer it lol. Auto dark is nice for tacking up but i much prefer a mineral glass lens when doing long runs, especially with stick

I see, I mainly do fiddly small stuff that requires akward tacks and small runs, I use a manual mask and it can be a pain as it doesnt 'nod down' as its an old cheap one. So I need to treat myself to an auto mask really. Cheers for your thoughts, I shall keep the old mask incase I get any big jobs.

and thanks shugie97 ill check those out!