Forney Welding Helmet Review
Forney Industries has been in the welding business since 1932, making it one of the older independent welding brands in the United States. Their welding helmets are sold at Tractor Supply, Home Depot, and Amazon - making them far more accessible than Harbor Freight exclusives - and the Easy Weld series has earned a reputation as a genuinely approachable option for beginners and hobbyists.
Forney Welding Helmet Lineup
Easy Weld Series
Amazon ASIN B07W226W7B (~$50–70)
- Lightweight, impact-resistant, fireproof shell
- 5-point adjustable geared headband with sweatband
- Viewing area: 5.97 sq. in.
- 2 arc sensors
- Shade: DIN 9–13 variable
- ANSI Z87.1 compliant
- Multiple graphic designs (Velocity, camo, solid black)
Premier Series
Amazon ASIN B01FJOXO2W (~$70–90)
- Same 5.97 sq. in. viewing area
- 2 arc sensors, DIN 9–13
- Premium camo and graphic shell options
PRO Series (~$100–130)
- 4 arc sensors (major upgrade)
- 10.44 sq. in. viewing area (substantially larger)
- Arc Optics technology for improved clarity
- Heavy padding for extended professional use
Real-World Performance
Strengths:
- Wide retail availability (Tractor Supply, Home Depot, Amazon, AskForney.com)
- Fireproof shell explicitly advertised across the line
- 5-point adjustable headgear fits a wide range of head sizes
- Lightweight - minimal neck fatigue during short practice sessions
Weaknesses:
- 2-sensor Easy Weld and Premier models share blind-spot vulnerability of all 2-sensor budget helmets
- 5.97 sq. in. viewing area is relatively narrow
- No true-color lens on entry models
- TIG performance limited below ~30A on entry models
Forney vs. YESWELDER vs. Chicago Electric
| Feature | Forney Easy Weld | Chicago Electric 46092 | YESWELDER LYG-M800H |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | ~$50–70 | ~$40 | ~$85 |
| Arc sensors | 2 | 2 | 4 |
| Viewing area | 5.97 sq. in. | 6 sq. in. | 9 sq. in. |
| True color | No | No | Yes |
| Retail availability | Wide | HF only | Amazon |
| Fireproof shell | Yes | Not stated | Not stated |
Forney’s advantage over Chicago Electric is distribution. For pure specs-per-dollar, the YESWELDER LYG-M800H wins at $85 with true-color optics and 4 sensors.
Where to Buy
- Amazon: amazon.com/dp/B07W226W7B (Easy Weld)
- Tractor Supply, Home Depot: In-store and online
- AskForney.com: Full lineup
FAQs
Is Forney a trusted welding helmet brand? Yes - in business since 1932, sold through major retail chains, not a generic import.
What is the typical price point? Easy Weld $50–70; Premier $70–90; PRO $100–130.
How does it compare to YESWELDER and Chicago Electric? Similar entry specs to Chicago Electric at slightly higher price with wider availability. YESWELDER wins on specs for the money.
