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It is common knowledge that the use of chemical weapons was rampant during World War I. Chemical agents are still used nowadays both as a weapon and industrial materials. So, a military gas mask is used for protection not only by soldiers and law enforcement but also by industrial workers.
Gas masks provide protection and ensure the safety of the wearer when faced with these chemical warfare agents and toxic industrial chemicals. All Security Equipment partners with reliable brands such as Mira Safety for suitable military gas masks and tactical gas masks.
Protect Yourself: The Importance of Gas Masks
Gas masks, otherwise known as air-purifying respirators, work by filtering chemical gases and other harmful particles from the air that people breathe. These respirators contain a face shield and a filter or cartridge.
Respiratory protection is crucial when exposed to industrial toxic gases and chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) agents. A suitable mask acts as a respirator, allowing unhampered breathing against these toxic substances.
Using the right breathing apparatus is the key to proper protection. They come in different sizes and also have different specific purposes. While military gas masks are of utmost importance in saving lives against CBRN agents and other toxic gases, some people, such as those with asthma, claustrophobia, or older adults, may have trouble using them.
Obsolete to Modern: The Gas Mask Evolution
Gas masks and respirators have evolved over the years. Thanks to the advancements in technology, innovations applied when manufacturing these masks made them more durable and functional, allowing them to provide the maximum protection needed.
However, surplus military gas masks are still rampant in the market, especially in the United States. These surplus masks are likely expired or poorly made, leading to cheaper prices. They don’t offer viable protection and put your safety at risk.
Obsolete Masks
The 4A1 Israeli Civilian Masks were used during the Gulf War. While they are still used in Israel during emergencies, these masks are likely outdated and have poor visibility. Israeli Military M15 masks are similar to the 4A1 but come with a more visible eye shield that protects against warfare agents.
The M17 gas masks used by the United States during the Vietnam War provide decent CBRN protection. However, you must remove them to change the gas mask filters, which can be a burden when in the field.
The Czech M10M is an upgraded version of the M10 used by Czech army specialists. It has a head harness and a voice diaphragm that also acts as its exhale system.
Russia’s GP-5 gas masks ended production in 1990. At their peak, they used a single filter and sealed glass eyepieces.
Popular Canadian gas masks include the C3 protective mask, which uses 60mm threaded gas mask filters and the C4 protective mask. The Canadian Armed Forces are still using the C4, which has filters that can be mounted on either the right or left for tactical advantage and two separate eyepieces for better vision.
Modern Gas Masks
Modern military gas masks have better mask filter connections. These tactical gas masks also come in a variety of designs and styles to ensure comfort without compromising function and quality.
Today, tactical gas masks are available in various sizes to ensure a better fit and protection. Even children can have a CBRN escape respirator that can fit their thin faces.
The gas masks that we know today are rated based on how they protect the wearer:
- CBRN
- Chemical blowing and riot control agents
- Specialty ratings – for Hazmat or CBRN threats
Choosing the Right Military Gas Mask
With the surge of modern gas masks on the market, finding the right one to fit your needs has become more difficult. You need to know which brands to trust to ensure reliability and quality.
Always look for certifications, optical device compatibility and speech diaphragm inclusion. A great tactical gas mask must have a compatible hydration system for safe drinking. Most importantly, the rubber it is made from should be resistant to toxic warfare agents.
For a trustworthy collection of military gas masks and more on their key benefits, visit us at All Security Equipment. We carry one of the best brands for protection against these gases: Mira Safety. This is a tried and trusted brand you can rely on for all of your gas mask needs.
Feel free to contact us for further assistance in finding the best gas mask and filter for you.
