I use the Jackson "master" if I'm remembering right. At the time it was the best one available. It was on sale and I bought it as a backup. It quickly became my first choice.
It is like the microwave, radio in the truck, cell phone, and my puter. It has more features than I'll ever use. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif All I ever use anymore is the off/on button. And occasionally I'll use the "torch" or the "grind" features. However, there's always one or two of those features that become so important, even if the radio stays on the same station and the "E" is the most used button on the screen. /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif
When you get your hood your next stop should be the box store for a good sturdy toolbox that will carry it and the accessories like gloves, rod holder, etc.
Speaking of rod holders........a little late now.........but birthday time a good gift for a good welder is a custom rod holder.
I get one made about every ten years. There's a saddle maker here locally that makes and repairs mine.
One of my personal quirks on the job is I don't like rod ends laying everywhere. So unless I'm in the shop my rod ends go back in my rod holder to be put into the scrap bucket or into a fence post at the end of the day.
It's a good habit to have. They are potential flats, hardware disease for livestock, and in my book, show shoddiness in work when they're left for someone else to pick up.
The ones you can buy at the welder's supply lasted me a month or so. The one I've got now is six or so years old and has had the bottom repaired once. Hot rod ends will burn the threads if not the leather over time.
BTW Don if you need some ideas to supplement the kagillion you already have for welding projects, give me a call. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif
