Hornell or Optrel?????

[Arbo]

I have my new helmet selection narrowed down to two models. The Hornell Speedglas 9000X or the Optrel Satellite. Let's hear some opinions on these two to help me make the right decision. The prices are close, so that is not a deciding factor for me. BTW, I have used the Hornell at work, and like it. But, I like the external controls on the Optrel...easier to access, but haven't had the pleasure of trying one.

[ZACHV]

I recently picked up a Hobart auto helmet as an impulse buy. I was dead set on the Hornell, bt when I got to the store I realized how much of a pain the exterior adjustment would be. I weld in some tight corners some times and it would have been a major inconvenience. Also, I realized that you don't need to change the adjustments that often to need instant access while welding, atleast for me. The interior adjustment is extremely easy to do by just taking the helmet off and turning the knob--can't imagine how that would be a problem.

Anyway, just wanted to give you my vast wisdom on the subject.

[Hobart Expert Rock]

ZACHV.............I TO DID WELDING SHOWS WITH AN OPTREL HELMET...........I HAD IT FOR ABOUT 1.5 YEARS BEFORE THE ADJUSTMENT KNOB GOT TURNED PAST THE STOP...........THEN IT WAS ONE ADJUSTMENT ONLY AND IT WAS DARK..........WAY TO DARK TO TIG WELD WITH.............................BUT IT WAS GETTING A LITTLE BEAT UP AND I REPLACED WITH A NEW HELMET......... OK THIS TIME I GOT A JACKSON..........NO PARTICULAR REASON I BOUGHT IT AT THE SAME WELDING SHOW BECAUSE I COULDN'T USE MINE ANY MORE........................................ROCK
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[Guest]

I have a Speedglas 9000v and it does every thing from light to heavy TIG and Light to heavy everything else...they take a while to get used to...many times I have to get into a tight place where an external control would get in the way. It's light and flexible, and quite comfortable. Mine has batteries, and the first ones lasted about three years. One downside is that the lenses get dirty fast from flux-core welding...but I do it every day 8 to 12 hours a day, too.