Lincoln Electric K3118-2 Cutting & Grinding Goggles — Shade 3, Wide

Lincoln Electric K3118-2 Overview

The Lincoln Electric K3118-2 is the Shade 3 version of Lincoln’s wide cutting and grinding goggle — same sealed, wide-vision body and dual anti-fog / anti-scratch lens, marked to ANSI Z87.1, but with a lighter filter for light cutting, brazing, and torch soldering. Shade 3 keeps the work visible where Shade 5 would be too dark, while still blocking the IR/UV those processes throw off. Browse safety goggles and eye protection, and match shade to task with our welding shade-number reference.

Where the K3118-2 Fits in Eye-Protection Selection

Shade is chosen by process intensity. Light cutting, brazing, and torch soldering call for Shade 3; heavier oxy-fuel and plasma cutting want Shade 5 (the K3118-1); arc welding needs a helmet. Too-dark a shade causes strain and gets removed; too-light exposes the eyes. Confirm against ANSI Z87.1 and OSHA 29 CFR 1910.133.

Who Should Buy the Lincoln K3118-2?

• Buy it if you braze, torch-solder, or do light cutting where Shade 5 is too dark.
• Buy it if you want a wide, sealed goggle that also handles grinding.
• Choose Shade 5 instead for heavier cutting — the K3118-1.
• Choose a cup goggle instead for classic oxy-acetylene — the Forney 55301.
• Choose a helmet instead for arc welding — see the welding helmets guide.

What Does the K3118-2 Protect Against?

What the K3118-2 Does NOT Protect Against

• It is too light for heavy oxy-fuel/plasma cutting — use Shade 5.
• It is not for arc welding — that needs an auto-darkening helmet.
• It is not a face shield — add one over the goggle for full-face grinding coverage.

Important: Filter shade must match the process — Shade 3 is for light torch work; using it on heavy cutting underprotects against IR/UV (risking photokeratitis and retinal damage). Verify the correct shade against the shade-number reference and OSHA 1910.133 before use.

Best Applications

Brazing & torch soldering

Shade 3 is the comfortable density for light brazing and soldering where Shade 5 is too dark. See process/shade pairing in can safety glasses be used for welding.

Light cutting

For thin-stock torch cutting; step to the Shade 5 K3118-1 for thicker plate.

Grinding & fabrication

Impact-rated lens lets it double for grinding; round out the kit with welding respirators.

Shade 3 vs Shade 5 — Fit & Compatibility

K3118-2 vs Other Welding & Cutting Goggles

K3118-2 vs K3118-1

Identical goggle, lighter filter. Choose the K3118-2 (Shade 3) for brazing, soldering, and light cutting; choose the K3118-1 (Shade 5) for oxy-fuel/plasma cutting and heavier brazing. Verdict: many shops stock both and grab the shade that matches the job.

K3118-2 Quick Answers

What shade is the K3118-2?

Shade 3 — for light cutting, brazing, and torch soldering.

When do I need Shade 3 vs Shade 5?

Shade 3 for light torch work; Shade 5 for oxy-fuel/plasma cutting and heavier brazing.

Can I use it for arc welding?

No — arc welding requires an auto-darkening helmet.

Is it ANSI rated?

Yes — ANSI Z87.1, so it also covers grinding.

Does it fog?

It has an anti-fog / anti-scratch coating.

Lincoln K3118-2 Specifications

Helpful Buying Guides

• Welding shade-number reference
• Best eye protection for welders
• Safety glasses vs goggles
• Can safety glasses be used for welding?
• ANSI Z87.1 standard explained
• OSHA 29 CFR 1910.133 eye & face protection

Lincoln K3118-2 Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the K3118-2 cost?

WC Safety lists it at $43.39, with the Amazon buy button reflecting the current Amazon price.

Why choose Shade 3 over Shade 5?

Shade 3 keeps light torch work visible where Shade 5 is too dark and causes eye strain.

Is Shade 3 enough for cutting?

For light/thin-stock torch cutting, yes; for thicker plate and plasma cutting, use Shade 5.

Can it be used for grinding?

Yes — the ANSI Z87.1 impact lens covers grinding.

Is it the same goggle as the K3118-1?

Yes, the only difference is the filter shade (3 vs 5).

Can I use it for arc welding?

No — arc welding needs a helmet, not a fixed-shade goggle.

Does it fit over glasses?

It fits over smaller frames; the Jackson WS goggle is roomier for OTG.

Is it OSHA compliant?

An ANSI Z87.1 Shade 3 goggle meets OSHA 1910.133 when the shade matches the task.

Does the lens fog?

It has a dual anti-fog / anti-scratch coating.

Should I stock both shades?

Many shops do — Shade 3 for light work, Shade 5 for heavier cutting.

Is it sealed or open?

Sealed — unlike open welding glasses, it blocks slag from the sides.

Can I wear it with a respirator?

Yes — pair it with a welding respirator for fume protection.