When it comes to welding, the single most important thing to remember is safety comes first. Following that simple rule will ensure you stay free from skin burns and welder’s flash. If you’ve never heard of welder’s flash, it’s like a sunburn in your eyes. Most welders have had at least a mild form of it, but if severe welder’s flash can cause permanent damage to your cornea — even blindness. The good news is, welder’s flash is easily preventable with a welding helmet. There are two kinds of welding helmets. A fixed shade helmet is good because there’s no chance of arc flash getting to your eyes. However, they can make it hard to weld — because you can only see through the lens once an arc is struck. The second, and in our opinion best, option is an auto-darkening welding helmet. These helmets allow the welder to see clearly before and after the arc is started. That makes starting an arc easier, while also offering adequate eye and skin protection. To help you pick one that will last, we have compiled a list of the best auto darkening welding helmets.
