I have a Hobart batt/solar. It works VERY well. The instructions said to set it out in the sun or any good light for 10-20 min the very first time it's used, and then only needed if stored in a closed box/bag for long periods of time. I store mine in a 5gal pail w/lid, but I just get it out as I'm getting ready to start a project. I've never had a problem with it. But I don't think I've ever been in a situation where I just "walked in to a shop, put on a helmet, and pulled the trigger." There is ALWAYS something to be cut, ground, fitted, plugged in, turned on. All that takes easily 10 minutes.
I paid $179 for it. I could have paid a lot less money, but my eyes are not worth risking a few bucks. $100 seems like a lot of dough until you realize you may not have eyes for the rest of your life. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> I wanted a reputable brand.

The only time I've had any problem with it, was sitting in on a beginners class that a buddy was teaching. While trying to watch from 10'ish, it would flash on/off. Fortunately, I figured it out real quick, and did not get burned at all.