Purchased this because of lighter state 2.5, based on experience with previous Optrel hood weight and visibility. However, the batteries started 'dying' quickly, as soon as put into service. After weeks of replacing batteries and even complaining to store about "old inventory". Finally, I discovered one of the PLASTIC ears that holds battery into hood..... GONE!! So only ONE battery was making contact, causing poor darkening performance. Luckily for me (NOT REALLY) it wasn't defective, but likely damaged in packing/shipping or unpacking and set-up, so I am stuck with a $255 hood and accessories. AND Whoever DESIGNED a welding shield to be used with a hard hat and PLACES the FLASHING RED LIGHT at the TOP of lens, needs MORE TIME WELDING with a HARD HAT. Please fix the lousy, unreliable grind button and move to inside of shield where it wont get TAPPED ACCIDENTALLY to flash yourself.
