Need Help Choosing a Helmet as a Gift

[HelmetShopper]

I'm not a welder but I'm considering giving my brother-in-law an Auto Dark helmet for Christmas. He welds as a hobby and seems to be getting more interested in it. I've been doing some research and have a grasp of what to look for and which brands are most reliable.

Currently, I'm leaning toward a Miller Pro-Hobby with a variable shade. However I came across an Optiva V800 for a really good price. Does anyone know anything about that particular model? It's specs seem to be pretty close to the Miller and it's regular retail price is not that much different either...~$110. Is it worth taking a shot on this Optiva (looks like a division of Arc One) or should I shell out the extra cash for the Miller?

Thanks for your input.

[weldgault]

A welding hood is a personal thing, if you get it, don't. Give a gift certificate and let him buy the one he likes the best. My .02 John

[offrdfun73]

Agreed. If you do buy one dont go cheap. Miller has been around and you can go to most LWS ans get parts. A good helmet will last for years. Having said that a friend bought two hoods from HF at $50 each. One was a back up because he did not think it would last and when I used the new one it was still in the box. The original one still works and he leaves it out side in the rain on his truck. If felt good and worked good. I dont use an auto hood but hav thought about getting one for TIG. I will buy Miller.

[David R]

I have 2 harbor freight helmets. Both work fine except they are not sensative enough for TIG. I also have a miller elite.

Harbor freight....$50.00
Miller elite.....$250

David

[DesertRider33]

I swear by my Jackson EQC. Works great for all processes, low amp or high amp, inside or outside, day or night. Has lasted for 4 years now of heavy continuous, fast-paced production welding, full-time + OT, then more welding at home and now out on the truck too. After many thousands of arcs, still never a problem, lives up to and beyond my expectations. Best $250 I've spent on welding stuff.

[offrdfun73]

Dave I even had good luck with TIG. I made a SS duct work out of 12ga. and the auto even worked there. I still cant buy one I got to go Miller