Matco Tools
Matco Tools ADEW173VGC 173 Series Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet TrueTimber Camo
Auto-darkening welding helmet with variable shade 9-13, grind mode, 3.86 x 1.73 in. viewing area and ANSI/CSA compliance
- Auto-darkening lens speeds up arc starts and setup
- Variable 9-13 shade covers MIG, TIG and stick work
- Grind mode lets you prep metal without removing the helmet
- Two independent sensors give reliable darkening at 1/25,000 s
- 86 × 1.73 in viewing area with ANSI/CSA certification
TrueTimber Camo welding helmet
The Matco Tools ADEW173VGC 173 Series helmet uses an auto-darkening filter that shifts from light to dark when an arc strikes. Variable shade 9-13 lets the operator match lens darkness to the process. Two independent sensors detect the arc and trigger the filter. A dedicated grind mode keeps the lens clear for preparation work.
1/25,000 switching speed and solar power
The filter switches in 1/25,000 of a second, limiting eye exposure to intense light. Solar cells power the electronics and an auto on/off function conserves energy. Two AAA batteries provide backup supply. Dial controls adjust sensitivity and delay for different amperage ranges. The unit is rated for 5 amp TIG welding.
ANSI CSA compliant with mag-lens ready slot
The helmet meets ANSI and CSA safety standards and carries Colt Lab certification. A mag-lens slot allows quick installation of magnification lenses for close work. Five-point adjustable headgear distributes weight evenly during long sessions. The viewing area measures 3.86 by 1.73 inches with a filter height of 3.54 inches. Buyers who need a wider field of view or a different shade range should consider other models.
Highlights
- Auto-darkening lens speeds up arc starts and setup
- Variable 9-13 shade covers MIG, TIG and stick work
- Grind mode lets you prep metal without removing the helmet
- Two independent sensors give reliable darkening at 1/25,000 s
- 86 × 1.73 in viewing area with ANSI/CSA certification
Specifications
No published specifications for this item yet.
Questions about this item
How do I install the headgear on the ADEW173VGC and what step is often missed?
Fit the five-point adjustable headgear by sliding each strap into its slot, then tighten all five tension points evenly; the step most people skip is adjusting the rear depth knob so the helmet pivots cleanly without pulling the front down.
What maintenance will the auto-darkening filter need over time?
The filter runs on solar cells with two AAA backup batteries; replace the AAA cells when the grind-mode indicator dims, and swap the front cover lens whenever it becomes pitted or scratched — Matco covers the lens for one year.
At what point does the helmet’s switching speed limit sustained high-amperage work?
The 1/25,000 second switching speed handles continuous welding up to the 5-amp TIG rating; beyond that the filter cannot darken fast enough to prevent eye fatigue.
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