Lincoln Viking 1740 Full Review
The Lincoln Viking 1740 is the entry point into Lincoln Electric’s VIKING welding helmet family - the lineup most professional welders consider when they’re ready to graduate from budget options. For welders who want Lincoln quality without the $350+ price of a Viking 3350, the 1740 is the answer.
Amazon ASIN: B08LNY8B51 (~$150–160)
Specs: Lincoln Viking 1740
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Viewing area | 6.25 sq. in. (1.7” x 3.66”) |
| Shade range | DIN 5–13 |
| Resting shade | DIN 3 |
| Switching speed | 1/25,000 second |
| Arc sensors | 4 |
| Power | Solar + 2x CR2032 battery |
| External controls | Shade, sensitivity, delay |
| Grind mode | Yes |
| ANSI standard | Z87.1 |
| Lens technology | 4C Lens Technology |
| Headgear | 4-point comfort headgear |
| Weight | ~22 oz. |
The 4C Lens Technology
Every VIKING helmet - including the entry-level 1740 - features Lincoln’s 4C Lens Technology:
- Color accuracy - eliminates green/yellow ADF tint
- Clarity - improved optical definition for weld puddle visibility
- Cut through UV/IR - full spectrum protection in both states
- Crisp lines - sharper edge definition
Welders switching from a standard green ADF to a 4C lens frequently describe it as a significant quality-of-life improvement. The 1740 has the same 4C lens as the 2450 and 3350 - you pay more at higher tiers for a bigger viewing window, not a better lens.
Viking 1740 vs. Viking 2450
| Feature | Viking 1740 | Viking 2450 |
|---|---|---|
| Viewing area | 6.25 sq. in. | 9.2 sq. in. |
| 4C Lens | Yes | Yes |
| Arc sensors | 4 | 4 |
| Price | ~$155 | ~$215 |
The 2450 has nearly 50% more viewing area for ~$60 more. If you weld frequently, the 2450 is usually the better value within the VIKING family.
Is the Viking 1740 a Good Starter Lincoln Helmet?
Yes - ideal for welders who:
- Want verified Lincoln quality and dealer support
- Don’t need the expanded viewing area of the 2450/3350
- Are stepping up from a budget helmet and want a true-color lens upgrade
- Do MIG, stick, and moderate TIG welding
Battery Replacement
The Viking 1740 uses 2x CR2032 lithium coin cell batteries + solar cell. Rated for approximately 3,000 hours of arc time. To replace: slide the ADF out of the shell, open the battery access panel on the side, replace both CR2032 cells, reassemble.
FAQs
How does the Viking 1740 compare to the Viking 2450? Same 4C lens and 4-sensor coverage; 2450 has 9.2 sq. in. vs. 6.25 sq. in. viewing area for ~$60 more.
Is the 1740 a good starter Lincoln helmet? Yes - 4C lens and 4-sensor coverage at the most accessible VIKING price.
What battery does it use? 2x CR2032 lithium coin cell batteries, rated ~3,000 hours.
