From wood dust to viruses, smoke, tear gas, and even nuclear fallout… we’ve got you covered.
We’ve researched, asked experts, and hand-selected the best gas masks and respirators for a variety of safety and prepping scenarios.
Then we tested them for fit, function, and value.
And for the extreme ones… we even gassed ourselves and tested rifle shooting ability.
So get ready for lots of pics and even some videos.
By the end you’ll know the best protection for your purpose.
*August 2020 Update* More info on CDC/FDA guidelines, supplies, KN95 alternatives, and making your own mask during the current COVID-19 outbreak.
*September 2020* Wildfire recommendations added too. Quick link to Parcil Respirators (#2 below).
Best Gas Masks & Respirators
I go over N95 masks further down the list which are the gold standard but are currently reserved for health professionals.
So I’m prioritizing the list based on what you can actually get right now.
1. O2 Canada Curve 1.2
The Curve 1.2 ($69) is a respirator that we’re currently testing that protects against particulate matter down to .1 microns (N95 is .3 microns).
Once you get past the fact that it looks like a sports cup…it’s SUPER comfy.
There’s a thoughtfully designed rubber earpiece that won’t leave your ear all red after a few hours.
And an easy to self put on neck strap.
But my favorite part is the silicone seal that can work with a little bit of facial hair.
I ordered mine during the middle of the craze and it still came in around 2-3 weeks. Check their site for the most current shipping estimates.
It arrived in a nice box and came with 3 filters and a surprisingly helpful manual.
Another thing I love…they don’t try to make all their money on filter replacements.
It’s a nice 5 extra filters for $8.
And of course vanity eventually comes into play and there’s some replacement shells with different colors, lol.
I really think these replaceable filter type of masks are here to stay in the post-Covid world.
The Curve 1.2 is more comfortable and more protective than cloth, surgical, or even N95 masks.
It’s not much harder to breathe although you will have to work a little more to talk compared to a surgical mask.
And despite it being named O2 Canada… we called and their shipping warehouse is out of Chicago.
It might look a little goofy but so far the Curve 1.2 is comfy and has a great seal.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
2. PD-100 and T-60 Respirators
Want to step it up a little with full-face protection or a comfy half-face respirator?
These are the in-stock ones to get to protect more against wildfire particles.
Let’s check out the full-face PD-100 first that comes with a set of N95 filters.
Installation of the filters is really easy…just twist them on.
The first thing that struck me was that it was actually really comfortable with a wide view.
Plus there wasn’t any fogging (although I was only standing and writing at my desk for a few hours).
The name of the game is fit and the PD-100 has adjustment straps that auto-lock for a snug seal by yourself.
And a view inside shows the soft rubber.
A very nice mask that gives a good seal and comes with a set of N95 filters already.
And one that came in a few days.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
Don’t need full-face protection? Check out the T-60 half-face respirator.
It comes with and utilizes the same twist on/off N95 filters as the PD-100.
The T-60 has a softer feeling rubber seal that’s even more comfortable than the PD-100.
However, with the filters on I felt a little droopiness until I really tightened down the straps.
There’s a top plastic strap part that conforms to your head and can be easily cinched down.
Then a neck attachment that’s easy by yourself.
The T-60 is a more comfortable respirator if you’re not looking to fully cover your eyes.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
But if you go the T-60 or PD-100 route…be sure to get the correct kind of twist on/off filters (PA1 Dual Filters) and not “bayonet” style ones.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
3. MIRA Safety CM-6M
MIRA makes gas masks, safety equipment, and tactical gear in Texas…used by the US DoD and plenty of other countries.
Kind of looks the same as the Mestel right?
Nopes.
The CM-6M is rated for CBRN which is NBC with a little extra Radiation protection snuck in.
But doesn’t the “N” already stand for “Nuclear?”
Yes…NBC masks can protect against traditional nuclear fallout from nukes. But now the extra “R” protects against dirty bomb isotope fallout.
It does that with different materials…in this case…butyl rubber which is much more resistant to fallout, chemical warefare agents, and toxic industrial chemicals.
It’s also very comfy and you get the choice of attaching the filter on either side depending on your rifle hand dominance.
However, the CM-6M was more designed for a full field of view rather than rifle shooting.
I found I had to tilt my rifle a little to get a good view through my optic. With un-magnified optics it will be a little easier.
Plus you might get thirsty right…but can’t remove your mask?
The mask comes with a drinking straw!
Which attaches nicely to the canteen.
As for filters…you can run the Mestels. Or better yet…check out MIRA’s very own.
They can be stored for up to 20 years instead of 5 years. Which probably turns out to be a better deal if you aren’t likely to use them.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
There’s also a new smaller P3 Virus Filter (P100 European equivalent) that come in packs of 6. A good deal if you aren’t looking at radiological or nuclear protection.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
As for the CM-6M…they might be the best choice for you if you value extreme protection from almost everything out there…and want a comfy large field of view.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
*Update* Currently masks and filters are sold out but I spoke with them and new supplies are slowly rolling in. Available for backorder (see details on their site).
4. MIRA Safety CM-7M
Need something made for shooting?
The CM-7M might fit the bill.
Also ambidextrous in filter attachment. The main change that makes shooting easier is the depression at the cheek.
Unfortunately it means you have to switch to the bug-eye design…but field of view was still very adequate.
It also comes with the drinking straw attachment although in a different area.
Check out the inside…
And for these…I’d recommend sticking with the MIRA filters.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
Now…we wanted to do some sort of test.
Amazingly, Amazon sells some Pepper Spray Grenades.
Now don’t get too excited…it was a little underwhelming…
Less grenade…and more upward spray.
But the two MIRAs passed with flying colors. And yes…the pepper spray was in the air and got all over our Tyvek suits.
I found out the hard way when I touched my eyes and lips afterwards.
For when you need CBRN protection AND the ability to more easily shoot a rifle…check out the CM-7M.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
5. Surgical & Cloth Masks
Your current best bets for affordable and timely masks…
According to the CDC on April 3…cloth masks can help.
CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.
Check out in-stock surgical masks.
As for reusable cloth face masks…we’ve concluded our own hands-on study over the last few months.
And our number 1 choice by a longshot is the Halo mask.
It passed our water penetration test with flying colors which can help determine effectiveness of filtering out aerosols.
As well as passing a fabric light test which can show if a fabric is tightly woven enough.
And the final test…the Halo is comfortable for long periods of times and does not have a lot of gaps.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
See the full review and our runner-up choices in Best Reusable Cloth Face Masks.
Feeling DIY?
The CDC also released a video of the US Surgeon General showing how to make a cloth mask from a t-shirt.
6. KN95 Masks
Background
You probably heard of KN95 masks instead of the regular N95 masks…so what’s the difference?
The N95 metric is for the United States while the KN95 metric is for China.
Both are rated to filter 95% of particulates down to .3 microns.
On March 24, 2020 the FDA issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) that allowed masks (and different metrics) from countries that did not include China because of an abundance of fraudulent masks.
However, on April 3, they issued a new EUA that allowed KN95 respirators for health professionals if it met certain standards. They also released a list of a few dozen FDA certified KN95 manufacturers (updated May 7).
Now that we got that out of the way…
Where to Buy KN95 Masks
I’ve ordered several KN95 masks from Aliexpress and half never made it here in over 6 weeks. And the others were fake like the picture above.
So I don’t recommend Aliexpress.
I had one sent over from relatives in HK that looks to be real since they verified with the manufacturer list.
Compared to the fake one…the real one doesn’t smell like chemicals, were individually packaged, had a better fit, and much nicer ear straps.
I’ve started my research of US-based companies that are importing from the FDA approved list.
1. Wear a Mask Now
I’ve talked with Wear a Mask Now and they said that they are importing from an FDA certified manufacturer.
Masks are in stock in Indianapolis and shipping out same day. I ordered on 4/29/2020 to test it out so stay tuned.
*Update*: Got it in about a week in a nice resealable bag.
Masks look good and also come with a little triangle of authentication.
I reached out to the company and they said that they are on the US CDC qualified enterprise list.
And what matters…it fits well with a good seal!
Plus they have a special 10% off coupon for our readers with code PEW10.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
2. Safelife Defense
We’ve found some 25-pack KN95 masks from a Safelife Defense…a company whose flexible body armor we really dig.
They’ve listed their FDA owner/operator number of 10062984 and have several thousand in stock (as of 5/15/2020).
Currently the best deal for a large number of masks!
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
7. O2 Tactical TR2
Something new…that’s SUPER tactical.
Enter O2 Tactical‘s TR2 (tactical respirator).
It’s in pre-order right now and should be available in Summer 2020. We’ve put in our order so we’ll have a review whenever it gets here.
But we’re loving the design, N99 expected protection with easy swap filters….and drum-roll…suitable for facial hair!
Plus you’re GTG for eye protection and it even has an optional mic for Peltor headsets.
Check it out for yourself or wait for our review!
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
8. 3M P100/N95 Particulate Respirator
Probably what you think of when you first hear “gas mask.”
But…these are known as respirators and the 3M P100 above isn’t your regular dust mask or even surgical mask.
*April 2020 Update* P100 and N95 masks are also all sold out and Amazon is restricting sales to medical personnel. Scroll down for alternatives!
There’s a TON of acrynoms and numbers in the respiratory protection game.
If you’re getting something affordable and compact…get something with a P100 rating.
The more normal N95 is not oil resistant and only filters 95% of airborne particles .3 microns in size or larger.
While the P100 is oil proof and filters at least 99.97% of airborne particles. If oil isn’t a problem…check out N100 Respirators as well.
The 3M P100 filter is my basic pick since it’s affordable and also has an exhalation valve so it doesn’t get too stuffy after long use.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
Easy to keep in your bug out bag or vehicle. Plus, I use them for minor wood-working and renovation touring.
However, the good thing is that the CDC states N95 respirators “are capable of filtering out all types of particles, including bacteria and viruses.”
Still…you’re missing 5% protection there.
They are going in and out of stock all the time so use the N95 Respirator Search.
Or still try your luck with N100 Respirators.
If you have some of these masks…check out the CDC’s Guide to Decontamination & Reuse.
9. 3M Half-Face Respirator 7502
Boom…let’s amp it up a little.
This 3M Half Face Respirator uses disposable filters so you can keep re-using the “shell.”
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
The half face respirator is great for better protection of your nose and mouth since it creates a nice seal.
However, they are sized and I’m wearing a medium.
The attachments are also pretty comfy and intuitive…and don’t require someone to help you put it on.
For filters…there’s the ones I’m wearing that are P100 plus Organic Vapor Relief.
Which basically means it blocks some smelly stuff.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
There’s also other form factors such as the 7093B P100 filters which are encased in plastic so they protect from water and wetness.
I’d also recommend the 3M 7093 for prepping since you don’t know your situation. But the other ones are good for regular work when you know you won’t get wet.
I have a big stash of the half face respirators to protect against big wildfires and disease outbreaks.
But you’ve still got your eyes and ears to take care of…
That why I combo it with some simple goggles that give me a nice seal.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
And also some ear plugs. If you’re a shooter those foamy things are all you need. But we also have a guide for the Best Electronic Ear Protection too.
*Update* Since this is a big step up in protection and you’ll look a little too cautious (at least right now)…they are somewhat in stock.
If my above is out of stock or you need more sizes…use our 3M Respirator Search.
And if my main pick for eye protection is out try our Safety Goggles Search. Be sure to get one with a tight seal.
10. Russian Surplus Gas Mask
Ok…this is an example of what NOT to get.
Unless you’re doing some kind of cosplay…just don’t.
Russian surplus gas masks use a different filter threading so you probably can’t use new Western filters.
But that’s not the worst part.
They also can contain asbestos. And are usually liquidated once they expire. You never know how they were stored…etc.
I put it on without the filter and it definitely was super uncomfortable and claustrophobic.
I had to take out my contacts and clean them since something in the mask got in my eye.
So even if you are buying for fun…make sure to clean it out. Comes with a nice fabric bag though!
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
11. Israeli NATO Surplus Gas Mask
Now we’re getting into real “gas mask” territory.
These Israeli gas masks are popular with the prepping crowd since they are still affordable.
Plus they offer NBC protection…which stands for:
- Nuclear
- Biological
- Chemical
They sometimes come with a fresh-ish filter (this one is expired at 2008). And can take regular Western 40mm ones.
And surprisingly…decently comfortable despite the appearance. However, I did experience some fogging after a few minutes.
Visibility is also not bad with the two eye holes.
My recommendation if you want to go super budget with a full faced gas mask.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
Make sure to pick up some new gas mask filters while you’re at it though.
I’ll cover those combined with the next pick!
12. Mestel Full Face SGE 150
This is my primary pick for most potential users (when it was in stock).
The Mestel SGE 150 and equivalents gas masks give you NBC protection and the ability to use regular 40mm filters.
Mestel is an Italian company of diving masks so it’s essentially a modified mask to fit NATO filters.
It has a huge field of view and is pretty comfy!
No fogging up. Guessing their background has some advantages.
Check out the inside…simple but to the point.
As for gas mask filters…I like the Mestel version for general preparedness.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
These are made for NATO, are NBC rated, and last up to 5 years.
*Update*: Amazon is taking off gas masks and filters so sometimes the Mestel is gone or not named directly. If it is I’d take a look at Parcil or Mira. Or see the search for CBRN Filter.
It’s possible to go through 1-3 filters a day…so prep accordingly!
Those combo-ed with the Mestel SGE 150 are my favorite general prepping gas mask.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
What’s your take on the Mestel?
What About Beards & Kids?
A little update for questions in the comment section…
What if you have a beard?
It’s just not going to have that airtight seal you want.
John, our resident social media guy/beard man, wore the CM-7M in our pepper spray grenade test and came out unscathed.
But that’s not the same as something more pervasive or harmful.
The CDC recently published a guide to acceptable beards (PDF). Great use of resources…and yes…the “toothbrush.”
Your best bet would to shave…or go with a hood.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
Or a budget pick would be a disposable fire hood…
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
How about for children?
The above Firemask will fit children as young as 3. Otherwise there’s one from Mira that totally isn’t scary at all…
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
Conclusion
Hopefully this helped in you choosing the best respiratory protection for your intended use.
For cheap and accessible protection that gets the greenlight from the CDC:
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
If you want to up it to available KN95 masks…
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
Or you want something with a quick shipping time, nice fitment, and refillable filters…
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
And for full-face and half-face respirators…
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
And if you need all the bells and whistles of protection (and shooting ability)…check out MIRA.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
Combo-ed with their 20-year shelf-life filter.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
Or their new P3 Virus Filter.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
In a quieter time…
If you’re doing a general prep bag…or want to be 99.97% protected from general contaminants…get the 3M P100 Disposable Respirators.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
If you’d like a little more protection in a re-usable format…get the 3M Half Face Respirator.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
Combined with the 7093 P100 filters with smell reduction.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
Need other prepping help?
53 Leave a Reply
Last I heard (I’ve been meaning to get myself one to poke fun at the largely useless mask mandates at my school) the Russian GP-5 gas masks like the one shown under “what not to get” actually reportedly come threaded for 40mm filters so you could theoretically use them with modern NATO filters.
Miras are not actually made by Mira. Someone on reddit did a pretty amazing deconstruction of Mira's claims: https://www.reddit.com/r/gasmasks/comments/f1jx7v/on_the_topic_of_mira_safetys_products/
I bought a Trend Stealth Air for my mother since her school district is reopening later this month and not requiring masks or distancing of any kind. Its N100 rated, very light and comfortable and available on Amazon. I got one for myself as well and would recommend it.
The Israeli NATO Surplus Gas Mask is going for $169 on amazon, uhhh no. No way I'm spending that much for a $40 mask so I ordered a Mira, coupon code gave me $50 off.
For all of these filter replaceable masks, what are the guidelines for replacing the filters time frame/use? I have not seen anything so was curious.
I am a freelance photographer and have ended up getting gassed and pepper sprayed on accident while covering the unrest. I have a full mask coming in (SGE 400/3), but it wont be in this weekend. Do you think a respirator and goggles would work as a makeshift? If I have swimming goggles, they should protect my eyes and I am hoping a respirator will protect my rose and mouth. Any thoughts?
O2 Canada Curve 1.2 is not source control! That is, it does not filter the air exiting the one-way valves out, only the incoming air, and by wearing it you do not protect other people from virus transmission. I strongly suggest removing it fro this list Eric. We have a responsibility not just to protect ourselves, but others.
Thank you for your excellent article. Do the full face mask respirators filter exhaled air? I am asking in case a person is an asymptomatic carrier of COVID-19. If the air is unfiltered, are there any post-market modifications that can be done? Thanks!
You can get the Half Mask, Particulate filters (P100 or 7093), and some safety goggles or glasses ( but make sure the glasses have the sealing so nothing gets in. I use this respirator when I'm out shooting photos or when I'm at a the grocery store. One of my friends who works in the emergency room that deals with Covid patients recommends that mask setup if you can find it. Hope this helps!
Wear A Mask Now masks are from a company that failed it's tests. Not FDA approved.
Any data available on prescription lenses / glasses capability masks for those of us 4-eyed old ground pounders whose last set of Rx optical inserts for our M17s are long out of focus?
glue the lenses on he mask?
Curve seems to have hit capacity. I ordered in early April. Was order 20,XXX. In early May the website said they were finishing up packing order numbers <10,000
counldn't you get a new filter for the russian gp-5 surplus mask, and if so it would work right? Also, couldn't you stick cotton fabric in the part where the filter goes and it would be better. Its not supposed to fell good its made to save your butt.
Cyka, blyat! All you need is a bottle of vodka, semechki, some shell casings/bolts, and a GP-5 and you're good to face all the terrors of the Exclusion Zone. I managed to fit a 40mm Israeli tube and a M65 80's filter on my GP-5 ... passed a "crop-dusting" test. Standard cotton rounds for makeup will fit in the tube and even in an original tube to add some grip. Only issue with the GP-5 is that it's not made for humid climates as your head can't vent properly. Should be fine as a "temporary" solution with a different filter as you stated ... and a good way to scare the locals during Covid-19.
You failed to cover the Avon FM50, FM53 as well as the MSA Millennium CBRN Riot Control gas masks
Hey guy, where you did buy your 5. Russian Surplus Gas Mask and also filter for this? This was falsification. This is just falsification. Remember it! Real modern russians gas mask now other - this are similar in appearance to your MIRA Safety CM-6M Gas Mask but also more other special-modded filters for different impurities. Sorry, my friend, but you nothing know at russians gas mask.
Russian Gas Mask Filter Bottom, Yum! --- just remove it!! this is a patch of pack or instruction. :) The Filters have equal construction - it is coil dust and filters cloth. and you have the civil variant of this from the 90th.
Just curious, how would you rate the military's M40 promask? You can sometime's get them at Army Surplus stores for fairly cheap.
Speaking from experience as a former 54B - Chemical Operations Specialist in the US Army, if you go the M40 route, make sure all the valves are intact, and not tacky, or sticky. Look for cracks in the mask around the voice emitter, and canister wells. Look at the head harness, and look for rips or tears. Also check for elasticity. ~Chemical Mike
Note that P100 or equivalent is sufficient for radioactive particles, as per NIOSH. Therefore, your "There’s also a new smaller P3 Virus Filter (P100 European equivalent) that come in packs of 6. A good deal if you aren’t looking at radiological or nuclear protection." isn't accurate. Just an FYI so you can update it!
Are there any recommended masks for use with eyeglasses?
It's hard to wear standard glasses with a full-face respirator and not break the seal. You may want to consider the MIRA Safety CM-6M + 3M Safety 6878 Spectacle Kit ($110). This solution isn't cheap. You have the added cost of having prescription lenses made to fit the 3M Safety 6878 frame. There are currently 17 customer ratings on Amazon. You could consider hacking an old pair of glasses or a spare frame for your current glasses, cutting the frame halfway through the temple.
I use the the 3m inserts for my 6800 on a regular basis for work . i like them i recommend them
i have the 3M inserts for glasses for my full face 6800 for work and i recommend them they're awesome.
Thanks for doing this article. There are more options available than I thought. You folks sure produce very interesting articles. Keep up the great work.
Good article. Thanks!
Eric, Please update this review to address the Wuhan coronavirus.
Yup, just updated! CDC states N95 is enough for bacteria/viruses.
Better three weeks late than never, I guess. You need a paragraph that explains how a particulate filter works. Most people think a particulate filter (e.g., N95, P100, P3, …) acts like a sieve, only filtering out particles larger than it's "rated" size. That's simply not how particulate filters work. Particulate filters involve several mechanical collection mechanisms. Larger particles (> 0.5 μm) are captured through a combination of inertial impaction and interception. Smaller particles (< 0.1 μm) are captured through diffusion. Particulate filters are *least* effective at the MPPS (Most Penetrating Particle Size). The MPPS is 0.3 μm. This is why particulate filters are *tested* (not rated) at 0.3 μm. A P100 filter is 99.97% efficient at 0.3 μm. This is the *minimum* efficiency level. Particles both larger *and* smaller will be collected with an even higher efficiency. I think you should explicitly state that a P3 filter is the European equivalent of a P100 filter in the United States. Of course, any respirator must form a seal with your face. You must compliment a half-face respirator with goggles. I’m not familiar with the DeWalt goggles you’re recommending. Just make sure they’re not vented. The fact that they’re “anti-fog” makes me suspicious. Please look into 3M (non-vented) Fectoggles (about $13). You didn’t reference the 3M 701 adapter I alluded to. This will allow more affordable P100 bayonet-mount filters, such as the 3M 7093 you recommended, to be used with a 40 mm NATO full-face respirator (i.e., a gas mask). You need to emphasize that a particulate filter is good until it's contaminated. If I'm wearing a respirator it's because I believe there to be a chance of contamination. When I take off the respirator, I'm going to assume the filter is contaminated and properly dispose of it. I think your recommendation of one to three filters per day is spot-on. Each family must decide whether it needs a two-week supply, a one-month supply, a two-month supply … Let’s assume two filters per person per day for one month. For a family of four, that’s 240 filters (or disposable half-face respirators). Plan accordingly.
I guess I'm a goner...
This review is excellent! However, it needs to be updated to address the Wuhan coronavirus. First, you need to address whether (acknowledge) the 3M 8293, 3M 2097 and 3M 7093 will block a coronavirus. Second, you need to recommend a 40 mm P100 (or P3) filter compatible with the MIRA Safety CM-6M and CM-7M. I'd like you to evaluate the $12 3M / Scott Safety P100 40 mm filter (052683). Mira Safety plans to offer a 40 mm P3 filter ($25 MSRP) within the next few days. Third, I'd like you to address the viability of using the 3M 701 adapter to adapt the 3M 2097 / 7093 to the CM-6M / 7M. This would serve to create a "virus protection system" in which the same bayonet-mount filters could be used with the 3M 7502 respirator and the CM-6M / 7M. The question would be whether the 3M 701 adapter in conjunction with the 3M 2097 / 7093 is P100-rated. Worst case, the (more readily available) 3M 2097 / 7093 could serve as backup to a 40 mm filter with the CM-6M / 7M (e.g., in scenarios involving prolonged exposure which outlasts your 40 mm P100 filter supply). The 3M 2097 / 7093 will certainly be in short supply in such a scenario, however, far more available than a 40 mm P100 / P3 filter. Again, excellent review. This has served as my bible as I navigate the needed precautions. However, I feel it needs to be updated to address the current threat.
If the filter will block something the size of a radioactive isotope, it wil block a virus particle. Looks like its the CM-6M mask for me. Should block a virus
So you're going to use an $80 Mira Safety NBC-77 filter to block a virus? You do understand that once you take off the mask, you must dispose of the filter, correct? Will you stockpile a month's supply of filters for a family of four? Let's say, 120 filters? On the other hand, a 3M 7093 P100 hydrophobic filter costs less than $2. The CM-6M is an excellent choice (my choice as well), but I'm not sure about your virus filter strategy.
I appreciate the gas mask article. Are their any gas masks that can be properly operated by a left side operator of a long gun? Most gas masks have the filter on the left side for this reason. I see the Israeli and the Mira are centered. Did you try shooting with one of these? Did anyone actually test any of these. When I was a hazmat liquidator we constantly tested our masks using saccharine solution. It is easy to make and harmless. Even the smallest amount can be used to determine if you have leak, usually in the rubber-to-skin interface. For your information most of the masks I tried leaked even though you thought they were fitting properly. Eventually you get them right.
The Mira should work as it can accept canisters on either side
Thank you for this great article! I recently got tested for lead since I shoot competitive matches and the toxicologist recommended wearing a respirator since I had high levels. Which though would be best to shoot 3 gun matches in? I'm afraid they would be to bulky to shoot my rifle in? The 3M P100 and 3M Half-Face Respirator 7502? Decisions, decisions.
What if you wear prescription glasses and are unable to wear contacts???
In a pinch you can put petroleum jelly around the seal or just over the area the glasses frames break the seal, wont work with thick frame glasses (just have to take them off), and wont work with all fire fighting masks. Worked with Navy OBA masks and Tactical gas masks, not perfectly with EAB masks but it helped.
Nice article. I realize this is for a SHTF situation, but any respirator manufacturer will not guarantee and performance or fit factor if you are using a cartridge other than the ones that they manufacture, even with NIOSH approvals on all components. Most full-face APRs (Air Purifying Respirators) have a "Spectacle kit", or frame for lenses that will mount inside the mask, so all you need is a set of your prescription lenses made to fit the style and size of the internal frame. When you don the mask, the lenses will be in front of your eyes like a pair of glasses, but with no temples from typical glasses frames to disturb the necessary seal to assure proper function of the mask. Also, if donning a mask, ALWAYS to a positive and negative pressure fit check on the mask to make sure you have a proper fit and no leaks! There are also many other manufacturers of masks, one-half and full-face respirators, and hoods that have their own sizes of masks to consider or talk to any local safety equipment supplier about, as each manufacturer may have slightly different sizing on their products, and the BEST respirator is one that you understand and have had training on, fits properly, provides a proper seal, has the correct cartridge for the potential hazard, and is comfortable to the wearer. I speak from experience as I was an active haz-mat responder for a Fortune 100 company for over 30 years, and a health and safety professional who had to fit test and train dozens of industrial firefighters, emergency responders, and employees working with hazardous chemicals on respiratory protection.
Thank you very much for the article. its much appreciated.
Glad you liked it!
The Russian mask you tested is quite old. Maybe you should find something new? What they are producing now. All the devices are brand new. And Russian mask is more than 30 years I suppose
I bought a russian GP-7V out of poland a long time ago, and some new old stock nato NBC filters off of ebay. the GP-7V has the protection of your more expensive masks, drinking straw that fits nato NBC canteens, and shooting ability (because russians), but it DOES tend to fog a bit (because russians). would love to see how you guys rate it, but it's way better than your "what not to buy" mask, nearly as good as your top two masks for anti-fogging, and you can shoot with it so there is that...
Get out of here, S.T.A.L.K.E.R.
What if you have a full ZZ top beard?
forced air masks no problem, straight filter masks are hard to keep a seal as it is even without a beard or anything else crossing seal line. the only thing i can see working is a full body chem suit with lots of tape. We use to run tactical drills with gas masks where they used aerated pigment dyes, and make you breath through the mask while simunition CQC ops and at the end you would take the mask off and see that everyone died (if your face or nostrils were purple you were considered exposed) if you want a beard then have a beard, if you want to be safer shave it, but if you want to be realistic then doesnt really matter either way, and depends more on your luck, constitution, and exposure amounts. The only truly safe protection is a whole body suit, filter masks tend to be only half measure and as alot of military people know filter masks are there to make people feel better. If you dont believe that buy a 3m carbon filter mask, a gallon of low voc paint, and air quality test strips put three outside of the mask and put three inside and paint a room, while the mask takes out alot, your air is still exposed as are you.
I have seen individuals with a full beard obtain a reasonable seal for the respirator after coating their entire face and beard with Vaseline. That is NOT accepted procedure under ANY standards, but under the circumstances, it might work. As noted, shave it and get trained on it. then you'll get the right seal. Hoods might OK, but they are usually used with an airline (air supplied respirator) or as a PAPR (powered air purifying respirator hood) with a battery pack and fan pulling air through the filters worn on your belt in back or behind your head, which are powered by a rechargeable battery. Facial hair usually will not affect a respirator seal as long as it is trimmed and is not present anyplace where the seal of the respirator meets the wearer's face. That's why a fit test is always critical when putting one on, and being able to recognize when the cartridge is saturated or full to recommended capacity and needs to be changed. Always consider your cartridge change schedule based on your potential or actual exposure. Just fyi.
Texas Smoke got it right! I added a section for bearded folks and children. You can shave it off...or go with hood-type protection.
YEA,,,What if you have a full ZZ top beard?
It's simple. If you really NEED the mask and you have a beard you die. The only alternative for protection with a beard is a full protective suit with forced air.
for protection a filter mask is a half measure, forced air system is adequate, and adding a full suit is even better, but the best solution is get away from the contaminated area, or ventilate the area with forced air. As far as long term environment exposure problems, filter masks are useless, might as well skip the mask and either die quicker or get lucky and be one of the few immune to whatever the contaminant may be
8mmMauser, hopefully you will never really "need" a mask since they ALL need to make contact with your skin to get a proper seal to work. My secondary MOS while in the Army was 54 E, NBC Specialist. I spent more time in a mask than most other soldiers and can tell you with all confidence that a clean shaven face beats a day or two of an unshaven face. I have literally spent multiple days, and nights, in a row in an M-17 mask while training. I even had to sleep in it a couple times. Sad thing is that I now sport a pretty full goatee and hope to GOD that I never really need a mask for personal protection.