Harbor Freight has two magnifiers. One is the Head Strap Magnifier with Worklight Lot no. 95890. $9.99
The other
Both are likely made of plastic that may not even be fully transparent. Would I be kidding myself if I purchased one or both of these to be used for detailed small work items? Any experiences?
Hey Joe,
I've got a few pair of el-cheapos, not from HF but very similar, and they work OK. I really like the ones with two magnification plates plus a single loupe attached. I rarely if ever use the loupe, but love the ability to flip that 2nd stage of magnification in with just a flick of my finger. Oddly enough, I have to take them off to reset it though!!
Worth every penny. If you aren't sure, buy one of each, and go back next time they come on sale for more of the ones you like.
Take care.
Brian "In-the-middle-of-a-200-per-hour-storm-of-OT" Lawson Bothwell, Ontario. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
JL:
They're pretty cheapo. I have several pairs of Magnavisors with differing lens strengths and working distances to your object. Basically, the higher the magnification, the closer the working distance. You can also mount swing-in loupes to the side to allow additional magnification variability. They are quite comfortable and what the pros use. Not being fond of a good crick in the neck, I'll stay with the magnavisors. See:
Edward Hennessey
Joe, I have some HF magnifiers. The kind with the light on both sides, use them all the time. Threw the lights away long ago, two screws and into the dumper, too heavy. I also have a good one from McMaster Carr. If I'm just looking at a burr or the size on a mystery bit, the HF is fine. When I need to use one for an hour+, the MC one seems to focus across a larger area, and I also have more magnification there. Feels more comfortable. But, having the HF cheapies, I often go for the close one. Dave
I use HF stuff, but your best bet is to get an Optivisor like here:
Stan
Seconded. That's a good choice too.
Regards,
Edward Hennessey
I really appreciate all the comments. Was not sure that it actually worked. It clearly does. (Products like Vista really scares me.) I my case the weight may be an important factor. I had purchased a heavy face shield for some turning and when I replaced it with a light one it was instant relief if you know what I mean.
joe
I use the OptiVisor with the swing-away loupe. It's not heavy but I don't wear it for long periods of time, either.
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