A good gas mask can protect against various CBRN threats, including wildfire smoke and tear gas used during protests. Fortunately, many military-grade options are reasonably priced, especially during June.
Having the right gear is essential in any situation. Gas masks are a vital part of that gear.
Avon M50
Unlike standard filter masks used in construction or industrial settings, gas masks are specifically rated to protect against CBRN and NBC (Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical) threats. Most preppers should have a mix of cheap disposables and half-face respirator masks in their bug-out bags while having a full-face version like the Avon M50 at home for more extensive NBC/CBRN situations.
Unlike other military surplus models, the Avon M50 is CBRN certified, has dual 40mm ports, and accommodates glasses. Additionally, it is comfortable to wear and provides a good field of view and multiple filter compartments, making it an excellent option for those looking to add a severe NBC/CBRN gas mask to their prepping arsenal. However, saving your lungs and potentially your life in a CBRN situation is well worth the investment.
Ops-Core SOTR
A good gas mask will last over 20 years if taken care of. It will need replacement filters periodically and should be checked for rips or dry rot. It must also be stored away from sunlight and a display head, which will degrade the material.
The Ops-Core SOTR is a half-mask particulate respirator that fits comfortably around the face. If you have a MIRA Safety Promo Code, you can use it to get discounts on this respirator and other related products. It has a front-mounted filter for quick, one-handed filtration changes. Additionally, it features symmetrical exhalation valves for a consistent cheek weld. The SOTR can be used with a headset for communication and can be attached to helmets for additional protection in high-intensity situations. Notably, it can also be combined with a grenade launcher, making it a valuable tool for preppers looking for more than just respiratory protection.
4A1 Youth
Many surplus-style gas masks on the market have been abused and misused. They often have filters that are no longer being produced and can be challenging to replace, making them a safety hazard. They also don’t have an anti-fog feature, which modern masks like the CM-6M include by default.
A famous example is the Japanese animated TV series Tokyo Ghoul, which uses older surplus-style gas masks to represent fear and horror. Characters in the show wear hoodies and varying masks, but they don’t use these as survival tools; they look fantastic.
Other examples of people misusing surplus-style gas masks include those who use them as bongs. The spooky aesthetic and the seal around the face make these masks attractive for bong smokers, but they force smoke into their lungs and could potentially expose them to contaminants.
CM-8M Full-Face Respirator
A professional-grade gas mask like the CM-8M offers trustworthy protection against many airborne threats. It meets advanced safety standards, and its engineers underwent rigorous testing to create it. It’s also compatible with other accessories, including vision devices and thermal optics. If you have an Accessories Discount Code, you can use it to get discounts on these compatible accessories for your gas mask.
The CM-8M is a next-gen CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear) gas mask with a unique visor design for maximum comfort and compatibility with optics. Its breathable bromobutyl rubber facepiece and hypoallergenic inner mask ensure comfort, while the visor fits securely over your eyes to protect against dust and other contaminants.
It has two slots with Rd 40mm 1/7″ connection threads to accommodate standard NATO filter cartridges. Select a TIC or CWA filter to meet anticipated toxic threat levels. The central speech diaphragm delivers at least 95% intelligibility of speech, and the head harness has six points of contact to provide stability.
3M Half-Mask Respirator
Designed with various environments in mind, 3M respirators offer multiple filtration ratings, filter and cartridge options, and sizes. They also prioritize comfort features like silicone for a softer yet just as protective facial seal and adjustable straps to minimize pressure points.
The 6000 series is economical, low maintenance, simple to handle, and extremely lightweight. Its bayonet connection system allows for a wide variety of twin filters to protect against gas, vapor, and particulate, depending on your needs.
Another bonus feature of the 6000 series is the ability to easily seal-check it using its mask covers, similar to the Advantage 290. This makes it a great option when you need access to a fit-testing station or are working quickly. The only drawback is that it doesn’t have valves, which should be fine for most users.
3M Full-Face Respirator
A full mask can be more comfortable than a half mask and provide better visibility. The CM-8M is one of the most popular full masks out there, and it’s built with military specs to ensure it will be a solid piece of gear.
It’s an excellent choice for anyone who wants to get a good feel for what a natural military gas mask looks like, and it also meets advanced safety standards from Europe. This means it will be a reliable and sturdy option for a prepper to use in case of a serious NBC or CBRN threat.
This mask features a double seal for worry-free protection, a comprehensive view visor, and threaded filter ports that accept 40mm NATO filters or MIRA SAFETY brand cartridges. It’s also glass-compatible and has a clear mouthpiece for communicating.
3M Half-Mask Respirator with Ballistic Lens and Water System
In a real crisis, a good plan is the only thing more important than a gas mask. Getting prepared and having the gear you need to survive will make a difficult situation less stressful.
Most of the full-face gas masks on this list are military or militarized police models, and they all use NATO-standard 40mm filters (often referred to as “STANAG” filters). They also feature features like speech diaphragms for clear communication, water systems connecting to your canteen, and visor outserts for ballistic lens protection and a better view.
Several are available in smaller child sizes, too—look for the Israeli civilian gas mask, the Russian small GP-5, or the British S10. However, they can be pretty pricey, so we’ve only included the best option here. Availability and transparent product information are also critical, so avoid anything you can’t easily find online.
3M Half-Mask Respirator with Ballistic Lens
There are a few alternatives to the full-face respirators favored by police and militarized military forces. Civilian and workplace masks with ballistic ratings can be purchased for about $20, with replacement filters costing $10 or less.
They typically have visors or lenses that must be impact-rated to survive projectiles up to 500 feet per second (fps). These masks and visors can also be found as ballistic-rated work glasses or swim goggles.
Some of these masks, such as those used by wilderness firefighters, have self-sealing bayonet mounts that enable you to swap out a filter without holding your breath or exiting the contaminated area. The only downside is that these types of masks do not provide a seal over the eyes. One comrade in Portland reports wearing large sneeze guard-style face masks with their hoods pulled up to create a seal, but these masks do not protect the eyes or block tear gas.
Conclusion
Having a reliable gas mask is crucial for protecting yourself in any situation where airborne toxins may be present. With so many options available on the market, it’s essential to research and choose a mask that meets your specific needs. Whether you’re a first responder, a healthcare worker, or just someone who wants to be prepared for emergencies, investing in a high-quality gas mask is a wise decision that could save your life.
