Abstract: A plurality of screens can be supported within a nozzle assembly and positioned so that gas from a housing manifold flows through the plurality of screens and into a flash shield nozzle. The flash shield nozzle can include a partial-parabolic-shaped portion. A distal end of a collet holding the stud during welding can extend past the distal end of the flash shield nozzle and any other component of the nozzle assembly to maintain a gap between a workpiece the stud is being welded to and the nozzle assembly so that no component of the nozzle assembly contacts the workpiece during stud welding. Related methods can include welding a stud to a workpiece including an obstruction or welding impediment.