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Thread: Gas Masks: A primer

  1. #11
    Crotch Rocket


    mitunnelrat's Avatar
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    Excellent thread, izzy! I have a mask, but only one, and I keep it in my car. My primary use for it is protection against a chlorine leak at work. Thanks for the reminder that I need to verify my filter type for that threat.

    Otherwise I'm not too bad off. The system in place at work should give me time to reach and don it.
    Consilio et animis

    Essayons!

  2. #12
    I'll most likely shit myself



    bacpacker's Avatar
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    I have to use a respirator at work on occasion. It fits and seals very similar to the way Izzy described using a gas mask. One thing we were instructed in while using them was to place a plastic bag over the filter, then breathe in, the mask should suck in to your face if sealed correctly. While still holding the plastic over the filter, blow back out. This should force the mask away from your face breaking the seal. Just a good way for a quick test.
    There are also some filters that are very effective for radioactive particles. A good mix would certianly be worth having.

  3. #13
    Stalkercat...destroyer of donkeys, rider of horse


    izzyscout21's Avatar
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    I'm currently working on a list of masks that I would actually recommend. I'll get it posted up asap.
    WARNING: This post may contain material offensive to those who lack wit, humor, common sense and/or supporting factual or anecdotal evidence. All statements and assertions contained herein may be subject to but not limited to: irony, metaphor, allusion and dripping sarcasm.

  4. #14
    Wants you to "look at what he's holding tonight".


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    Good stuff Izzy, it has been years since my NBC schools. I do have 2 masks I procured from somewhere, but don't consider them useful for real life. Maybe CS canister or something, but not a real attack.

  5. #15
    Stalkercat...destroyer of donkeys, rider of horse


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    here's a few examples of what not to buy:

    Gas Mask – Gas Masks : Homeland Security News
    WARNING: This post may contain material offensive to those who lack wit, humor, common sense and/or supporting factual or anecdotal evidence. All statements and assertions contained herein may be subject to but not limited to: irony, metaphor, allusion and dripping sarcasm.

  6. #16
    Bacon Spam

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    maybe I missed it but there are only also a few that will allow prescription inserts, other wise if you can't see without your glasses your effed ...lol

  7. #17
    Stalkercat...destroyer of donkeys, rider of horse


    izzyscout21's Avatar
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    yep. off the top of my head, the AVon FM-12, MSA masks, and the current US mil issue masks allow inserts
    WARNING: This post may contain material offensive to those who lack wit, humor, common sense and/or supporting factual or anecdotal evidence. All statements and assertions contained herein may be subject to but not limited to: irony, metaphor, allusion and dripping sarcasm.

  8. #18
    Do you have a robot?
    realist's Avatar
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    Izzy good post.
    There are a lot of people that think that a gas mask will protect them in a fire. Remember a gas mask is a filter and does not supply oxygen, so if you are in an oxygen depleted environment then you will be toast.

    Mitunnelrat if you are preparing for a chlorine leak make sure that your filters are designed to filter chlorine. Also be aware that chlorine filter break down relatively fast so don't stay in the environment any longer than you have to.

    They do make a rubber goggle type glasses to wear under gas masks. If you plan on wearing these you need to be fit tested to make sure they work. I have found that several times I could not get a good seal. The inserts are the best route to go.

    If you do decide to buy a mask or masks make sure that you purchase several filters. Do not open the filters unless you need to or are going to use them for training. Keep the others in reserve. I would recommend that you purchase the ones for NBC over others unless you might be exposed to a specific chemical. Filters for CS or CN (tear gas) are not as good as the NBC filters. If you are buying buy the best. Bacpacker you can use your hand to check the seal on your mask.

    Izzy I like the remove plug before donning. You will only do it once then you will never forget, it is a rude awakening for some. One other thing regarding filters most commercial masks will take a military filter but the supplier will tell you that it is illegal to do this. It is only illegal for an agency to do this not a private person. I always figured that when the bugs were flying around I didn't think that there would be anyone around to check my mask.

    Gas environments, LNG and Propane will displace oxygen, see above regarding oxygen depleted environments.

    Shooting in a gas mask sucks, so if you plan on it you need to practice. If you are going to consider this you might consider testing out how they fit while holding something up to simulate a rifle or handgun when purchasing a mask.

    For those that have a bunch of money you might consider a PAPR which stands for powered air purifying respirator. This is a battery powered unit that will suck in the air through filters giving you a positive air flow and will not be so taxing to your body. Some of these have dual filters that will give you a prolonged working time.

    I use both the Dragger and MSA masks, they work very well. I have used them in actual chemical environments. They are the only ones that I would put my family in. I'm sure there are others but since I have personal experience with them I don't want to trust another company's tests if I have not personally used them.

    Now if you are depressed that you purchased a POS mask from Abdul don't fret they still make good Halloween costumes for the kids.....

  9. #19
    Stalkercat...destroyer of donkeys, rider of horse


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    I run Avon FM-12's now. By far one of the best masks out there. I also like the offerings from MSA, but golly gee whiz, they are pricey.

    I noticed today that Cheaper Than Dirt has the FM-12's................for a mere $299..................
    WARNING: This post may contain material offensive to those who lack wit, humor, common sense and/or supporting factual or anecdotal evidence. All statements and assertions contained herein may be subject to but not limited to: irony, metaphor, allusion and dripping sarcasm.

  10. #20
    Thunder Lizard Canning Club Chapter of the Old Farts Society


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    Izzy, these are what I have gotten in the past for confined space use. We also tested for fit with a banana smoke IIRC.

    CBRN Respirator Kit - Gas Masks - Respiratory - 1AAP9 : Grainger Industrial Supply
    Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me Liberty or give me death." Patrick Henry, Virginia House of Burgesses, March 23, 1775

    Quo Vadis?

    Luke 22:36, And he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one.

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