Esab auto shade helmets

[TubularFab]

I have never been a fan of autoshading helmets - have tried a few in the past and never was happy with the way the puddle looked through them while welding. In fact, I generally had a hard time seeing the puddle well. So, I've always used the conventional flip up fixed shade helmets.

In January I got to be part of a Monster Garage episode. All of thier welding equipment is supplied by Esab, so the "Eyetech Autorama" was the only helmet available from us to use there. I was actually quite impressed by them! I had great vision through them and absolutely no complaints. This is the first time I've entertained getting one.

So, has anyone got any input on this one? Anyone compared these to Millers or to any of the others? I'm thinking about buying one...

Here is the link to them: Esab Eyetech Autorama

Thanks,
Jason

PS - I'm sure it's going to look silly on the show when I have the helmet down and yet still nod each time before I start to weld!!! Was hard to break that habit!

[vipermanz]

most people i've talked with really like the optrel satellite, What episode will you be on?

[TubularFab]

I wonder where I could try one of those? I'll have to see if our Linde Rep has one. I was thinking about the Esab for 2 reasons.

#1 I liked it and it's the only one I've tried and liked. (it has been a few years, so I'm sure they are all better than the last time I tried one)

#2 there might be a discount through esab after being on the show - at least thier website says people on the show get a bunch of rebates for Esab equipment... Haven't seen anything yet.

The show I was a part of is "Flying Car" and will air in 2 parts in June as the season finale...

[shadetree]

Stay away from the Optel. It is a moisture magnet.I don't know where you live,but if you sweat,you'll regret.
They are also real spendy.
For my bucks I went back to a Speedglass,even the cheap ''Utility''helment is better than the Optel.