Well, I used my new Speedglas G5 01 gear for the first time today, grinding, cutting and welding. Quite pleased with it. I can see much better than my previous helmet which has led to (slightly) better welds. It was a low bar starting point
Obviously the helmet was slightly heavier due to the "double" visor and pipe at the back but not too uncomfortable and I got used to it as they day went on. There's plenty of adjustments to be made and it seems much more robust than cheaper options. I had a beanie on too as it's was a tad parky to say the least.
I liked the way that you can change where the air flows. I switched the airflow away from my eyes as that'd drive me mad. The helmet didn't steam up at all. I didn't get any smells or hint of dust and when I blew my nose later there wasn't tons of black stuff.
There's not too much negative to say.
The Adflo pack isn't too noticeable when I've put it on and not too noisy or anything, even at top whack.
I had to change the helmet battery. It was relatively easy to do, without looking at instructions.
Scratching my nose wasn't possible and it was probably only itchy because I thought about it. The only other issue, and it's my problem until I get used to it, is I nearly started welding with only the grinder visor. The welding part was up. That's due to the fact that I'm used to starting with a helmet on so my brain thought helmet on, check, and off we go. I realised in time. I'm sure I'll do it eventually.
I got the Bluetooth hooked up the other day but couldn't reconnect today. Can't say I'm overly bothered.
I had a wee muck about with the colour tone function but couldn't really see much difference and I was kindof getting on with things so forgot to properly have a play with it. Forgot to go to third setting for example.
I also liked the bag it comes with. It makes me pack it pack in and not leave it lying around or whatever. Also makes it easy to transport and not forget anything. I've spare screens and batteries now in it.
Time will tell regarding battery and filter life and general robustness. I'll eventually drop the helmet I'm sure.
That's it. Maybe more later if it all goes horribly wrong as it's a lot of dough to shell out but what are your lungs worth.
My mate helped as he just parted with 600 quid to fix the cats teeth. Jeez. Gave me a bit of perspective on cost.
adflo battery should last about 500 charges. each charge life will depend how clogged the filter is. etc. probly 6-10hr depending.
you can extend the filter by using a fan to blow away smoke so it doesnt end up in the filter.
theres also a backpack instead of a belt for the battery. im thinking of trying the backpack to see how it compares
I've started welding loads of times with just the grind shield on my FX...the first time it happened in a panic I checked the numbers on the grind shield and sure enough it provides UV protection .
this is the control panel. straight forward and easy to understand . no fidgety little buttons. no protruding headgear side knobs. front protection plate is shared with 9100 models so theyre always readily available and not one off exclusive parts. its a great helmet without any of engineering blunders you often see on other masks