When it comes to welding helmets, most welders will have at least one favorite welding helmet that they use for those important projects. For me, that welding helmet has been the Viking 3350 and I never thought the time would come when I’d find a new favorite. However, I was proved wrong when I finally got my hands on Lincoln’s newer helmet, the Viking 3250D FGS.
Lincoln Viking 3250D VGS
GRIND SHIELD
With the Viking 3250D FGS, the first thing that sold me on it was the integrated clear grind shield. As a welder, the versatility of a grind shield on a welding helmet is too hard to pass up. Being able to just flip the hood up is so much simpler and saves time rather than having to completely switch your helmet for a face shield.
It also seems as though Lincoln didn’t just throw on a cheap grind shield either. It ended up being pretty durable and I have yet to get any scratches on it, even on my rougher welding jobs. Plus the field of view was massive, being around 161 degrees. I also rarely never had to worry about the shield fogging up either with the anti-fog coating.
CLARITY
I wasn’t really surprised by the Viking 3250D FGS’s clarity, which ended up being perfect for me. As with most of Lincoln’s welding helmets, the Viking 3250D FGS is made with their very popular 4C Lens Technology and a 1/1/1/1 Optical Clarity.
If you’re not familiar with Lincoln’s 4C Lens Technology or haven’t used any of Lincoln’s newer welding helmets, you’ll definitely notice the improvement in clarity. The 4C Lens technology essentially will improve your visibility while also reducing eye strain.
However, if you have used one, especially the Viking 3350, the clarity will feel exactly the same. That’s not a bad thing though since the clarity in all of LIncoln’s welding helmets is nearly perfect.
VIEWING AREA
Even though the integrated grind shield was a major reason I wanted to try this helmet, the large and wide view area is what made it my favorite. I’ve always been a sucker for a welding helmet with a large view area and with the Viking 3250D FGS you get a whopping 12.5 inch one.
What surprised me the most was how much I ended up loving the shade 5 side windows. After using it for a couple of months, I noticed that besides helping with an increased view area, the side windows seemed to even help with neck strain. Being able to see everything without constantly turning my head with the welding helmet on throughout the day was something I never thought of until this helmet.
CONS
The only issue I had with the Viking 3250D FGS was with how it was heavier and bulkier than most other helmets. Although, I had already expected it to be like this since it has an integrated grind shield and that would make any helmet heavy and bulky. Also, the comfort was pretty amazing so I wasn’t worried about weight all too much.
CONCLUSION
Overall it should be no surprise that I’d highly recommend the Viking 3250D FGS. It’s a no brainer especially if you’re the type of welder who finds themselves switching between your welding helmet and a face shield all the time.
However, I do want to mention that the Viking 3250D FGS is one of the more pricier helmets on the market. So if you don’t really have it in your budget, I’d go with the Viking 3350. It has the same clarity and larger viewing area for a cheaper price, just without the integrated grind shield and side windows.
Latest Price: $333.95
FAQ
Q: How heavy is it?
A: It weighs 28 Ounces.
Q: What type of batteries does it use?
A: Two CR2450 Batteries.
Q: Can you use a cheater lens with it?
A: Yes you can, you can find them on Lincoln Electric’s website.
Q: Is it solar powered?
A: Yes, it has a solar battery assist.
Q: Does it come with anything?
A: Yes, it comes with a helmet bag, bandana, side window covers, and extra cover lenses.
Q: Can you replace the side windows?
A: Yes, the side windows are replaceable.
Q: Can you fit a respirator comfortably under it?
A: Yes, I’ve been able to.
VIKING 3250D FGS VIDEO OVERVIEW
Joe Stephens
Joey has over 20 years of experience working in the welding industry and now works with providing readers with intensive reviews. Joey has also self-published an e-book and has written countless articles regarding welding information and safety.
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