AX, How many magazines do you subscribe to? we Had a blizzard here today that dumped 5 inches of snow. Even here that is unheard of. Usually by this time we're surfin 70's F. We have an outlet here called Princess Auto, That is on the same lines as HF, But I'm a Snap On/ Mac tool kinda guy, so I only buy disposables from them (Pricess Auto) I have spent 30 + years in the trade, and really really rely on top quality tools to do the job. I've been a desk monkey for the last 10 years, and still can't see myself buying Chinee tool's. I've seen a lot of apprentices start out buying cheap tools, and gettin hurt in the process. There are certain tools/equipment I would buy from HF kinda stores, but please, do your homework. Have a great evening guy's

 

I have used the HF "blue flame" and plain helmets and didn't see a functional difference. There is a coupon in the April 13 Hot Rod (good thru 6/12/13) and the Jun 13 Street Rodder (good thru 8/9/13) for the "Blue flame" design for 39.99. If anyone needs a coupon, PM me your snail mail addy.

Yama, currently I subscribe to 4 titles, I used to subscribe to > 20/mo at one time of business and personal interest.
I am definitely a tool junkie, I seldom buy a cheap tool.

 

When the battery dies in the welding helmet, you can replace them. You must cut the unit apart as its plastic welded together. Inside there are two "dime"batteries that are available at radio shack. You can also get a aaa battery holder and solder some wires. Mine died after five years of use from the battery dieing. I can just replace batteries as needed now.

 

Rusty, do you know if the modern helmets have batteries? I was under the impression they used a capacitor to charge up from the solar panel. I hate to open mine up but it's behaving like maybe there are batteries and they are failing.

 

I wouldn't suggest anyone buy another helmet like the non working one, then use the packing and receipt to take back the one that quit for a refund. That would be unethical.