Cheap surplus gas masks have always been on the market in large quantities (mostly Soviet/Eastern Bloc). But as of late, I've noticed many more Western surplus gas masks, especially from Finland, in the $15-20 range.

I have no idea why and how but I see these masks marketed as protection against the swine flu plus all the usual bio/chemical/nuclear threats. It seems people are buying them in serious quantities and even attempt to use them in hazardous environments.

From what I've seen, the filters are usually from the 1970's so with a shelf life of about 10 years they're already way past their prime. I'm no expert but I've always been taught old gas mask filters past their useful life should never be used and as the chemicals in them break down, aside from not working as they're supposed to, they might in fact pose a health hazard.

I don't know whether any of it depends on proper storage but I've been under the impression that all gas mask filters have a very definite shelf life and once past, must be disposed of. So what is going on with all the people getting old gas masks these days? Do the filters really last longer than the date says? Are there any real differences between Eastern Bloc and Western filters? Or is everyone buying surplus gas masks just wasting money on obsolete, potentially lethal gear?

IMO, old gas masks should not be trusted.

Over time, rubber dry rots and cracks, making a complete seal an impossibility. Then there are the age and breakdown factors of the filters and chemical agents.

IMO, gas masks are another useful layer of personal protection IN A SHELTER.

Wearing a mask and moving about (walking, working, etc) is very laborious and HOT. A mask is used to get out of a hot area when you've been caught out in the open. The average person will have to move slow or else the act of breathing becomes very tiring, depending on your size and state of physical conditioning.

I have recently become more aware of the importance of having the right "fit" of your personal mask to your facial structure. The mask may be sealed, but if it is the wrong size for your face, then it will leak as you move around, moving your head to different angles, as you work.

I was impressed with this Gas Mask from Nitro-Pak.
It's a "step up" in price... about $100.00, but the mask is new, and it includes a new filter that's "in date". The mask also includes a "practice filter" so you can try fitting/wearing the mask without wasting the new filter.
The mask is offered in both Adult and Child sizes.

I have also read that you can't effectively use a gas mask if you have a beard; you will not be able to get a good seal where the facial hair meets the mask.

And that is why you see clean shaven service members. Not to mention firefighters.

Prior to Y2K gas masks were a CRAZE! The 15$ ones going for $80 and then $200+ as it got near, etc...

I just use the 3M ones that take the 2091 filters, and then the other filters if you are around chemicals. These work way better than the disposable ones when working around welding dust, drywall dust, etc, etc... They are not full face shields but I don't have a reason for one of them

How high a priority should a gas mask be on my equipment list?

I would say very low. Unless you are fit tested (facial fit and respiratory compliance testing), have training, know when to don one with the correct filter, which is in-date, you are pretty much throwing your money away.

Just my 2 cents-

Pete

Gas mask I would rate very low on the equipment list but....

I would recommend having a basic N95 respirator mask from 3M in at least your car kit and possibly your EDC if you carry a backpack or Maxpedition.

I have one in each BOB, in case I deal with high dust and airborne particulates. I have actually used one in a monsoon dust storm, but a buff headwear or bandanna would just as good most likely.

I have also read that you can't effectively use a gas mask if you have a beard; you will not be able to get a good seal where the facial hair meets the mask.


That's why the CNO and the Commandant made us shave our beards but most us kept smooth shaven from the jaw line down and very few people had any "seal problems" but the excuse was sufficient.

Being "smartass sailors", many of us placed our facial hairs in envelopes addressed to either the CNO or COMMANDANT, as was appropriate!!! That's probably the closest that the USN and/or the USCG has come to servicewide Mutinies,,,,,mutinies without sedition!!!!!! at that!!!!!!