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The StarTechWeld 995795 gas lens is a TIG gas lens collet body made for 1/8 in (3.2 mm) tungsten and WP-17, WP-18 and WP-26 style torches, according to the Amazon listing. It is a good fit if you want smoother shielding gas flow and a little more tungsten stick-out on a torch you already own; check torch series, tungsten size and cup size first, because those details decide whether it works.
StarTechWeld 995795 gas lens at a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product | StarTechWeld 995795 TIG gas lens (collet body style) |
| Tungsten size | 1/8 in (3.2 mm), per the listing |
| Torch series | WP-17, WP-18, WP-26, per the listing; verify your torch’s consumable stack |
| Pack size | The listing indicates a multi-piece pack (five pieces is mentioned); confirm on the page |
| Listed assembled diameter | About 1 in, which hints at a larger-diameter style that needs matching cups |
| Listed weight | 12 oz, likely for the whole package |
| Not for | 3/32 in or smaller tungsten unless you also have the right collet and a body made for it |
What a gas lens does for TIG welding
A gas lens replaces the standard collet body with one that has a fine mesh or screen. The screen straightens the argon flow, so it leaves the cup in a smooth column instead of a turbulent jet. That more laminar flow gives wider, steadier shielding with the same gas, and it lets you extend the tungsten a little farther past the cup to reach tight joints.
Gas lenses are popular for stainless steel, titanium and other jobs where oxidation matters, and for joint configurations where a standard collet body cannot reach. They do not fix drafts, dirty metal or bad technique.
How to check the 995795 will fit your torch
- Identify your torch. WP-17, WP-18 and WP-26 are common air- and water-cooled torch families, but cup threads and body sizes differ between brands, so compare the parts, not just the series number.
- Confirm tungsten diameter. This item is listed for 1/8 in (3.2 mm). If you run 3/32 in or 1/16 in, you need a body, collet and tungsten that match.
- Check cup compatibility. Larger-diameter gas lens bodies take their own style of cup; standard collet-body cups may not thread on. Buy the correct cups (see the TIG cup guides below).
- Check the back cap length against the tungsten length you use.
- Check the seal. Make sure the O-ring on the torch head is present and in good shape so that no air is drawn in.
Pros and limitations
Pros
- Smoother gas flow and wider shielding coverage than a standard collet body.
- Longer tungsten stick-out is possible for tight corners.
- Works with common WP-17, WP-18 and WP-26 torch styles, per the listing.
- A multi-piece pack gives you spares.
Limitations
- Only for 1/8 in tungsten as listed.
- The mesh can clog from contamination or spatter and should be replaced when blocked.
- Larger-diameter bodies need matching cups and can block your view of the joint.
- An unbranded generic part may vary in tolerance, so check thread fit and gas leaks right after installing.
Installing and caring for a gas lens
- Turn off the gas and let the torch cool.
- Unscrew the cup, the old collet and the old collet body.
- Thread the gas lens body on by hand and snug it. Do not over-tighten.
- Install a collet matched to your tungsten size, then the cup and back cap.
- Open the gas and check for leaks with a soapy-water test around the joints.
- Ground the tungsten and start a test arc on scrap before the real job.
Inspect the lens screen before each use, and gently clean it with a soft brush. Replace it if you see blockage, discolored mesh or cracked threads. Store spares in a dry box.
Alternatives and related guides
- Jumbo diameter 995795 gas lens – a sibling listing for the same part number; compare its pack and price
- Riverweld stubby collets – short collets that pair with TIG torches for tight access
- Riverweld TIG glass cups – clear cups for better view of the puddle on a gas lens
- Ceramic TIG welding cups – replacement cups to match your body
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tungsten does the StarTechWeld 995795 gas lens use?
The listing says 1/8 in (3.2 mm) tungsten. It is not suited to 3/32 in or 1/16 in tungsten unless you pair a body and collet made for those sizes. Always match collet, collet body and tungsten diameter.
Will this gas lens fit my WP-17, WP-18 or WP-26 torch?
It is listed for those torch series, but consumable threads can differ slightly by brand. Compare the thread and size of your current collet body, and check that your cup fits a larger-diameter gas lens before ordering.
Is a gas lens worth it for TIG welding?
Often yes if you weld stainless or want more reach. A gas lens gives smoother gas flow and lets you extend the tungsten farther. For simple mild-steel welds in a draft-free space, a standard collet body may be enough.
How do I know when to replace a gas lens?
Replace it when the mesh looks blocked or burnt, when the gas flow is uneven or the threads are damaged. Poor shielding, soot on the weld or a hissing leak around the head are warning signs.
Conclusion
The StarTechWeld 995795 is a simple consumable upgrade for TIG welders who run 1/8 in tungsten on a WP-17, WP-18 or WP-26 style torch. Verify the cup and collet match before ordering and run a leak test after installing.
