Size does matter when it comes to purchasing the right gas mask for your specific needs. It is going to allow you to work conveniently under any circumstances, and make you more productive and careful during any process that you are required to wear a gas mask.
Fortunately, there is a wide variety of different gas mask sizes and styles available in the market that fit every type of head shape. What you should do, is try every gas mask that you are into, and test it to see if it has the appropriate size when you put it on.
Here are some of the best gas mask models of various sizes:
Apart from the regular sizes which are the small, medium and large, gas mask sizes come into two very large categories which are the full face gas masks and the half face gas masks. Depending on the requirements of your job or hobby, you should choose between these two types in order to take full advantages of the benefits of each one.
What size gas mask do I need?
Size is a very important metric for all types of head gear, especially when it comes to protection and safety. Being able to acquire a mask that sits comfortably on your head when you wear it, guarantees that it is going to be stable and provide the maximum level of protection and visibility during a dangerous situation.
Although gas masks come in specific sizes, you should always try them on before you purchase them. The reason why, is because sometimes manufacturers need to put additional parts in the interior part of a gas mask, making it tighter than it should be.
The size of gas mask you should look for, is the one that will allow you to put on the gas mask or the respirator fast and comfortably, in case you run out of time in case of an emergency. Being able to wear the gas mask fast, will allow you to stay protected from the beginning on an incident, without inhaling any amount of the hazardous gas that has spread in the atmosphere for example.
What is more, except from convenience you should look for stability. A gas mask should stay still when applied on the head of the user, while it makes it easy for him to move the head around. Keep in mind, that the straps of the mask play a major role regarding the level of stability.
Last but not least, visibility is key when it comes to surviving or seeking protection by using a gas mask. If you wear a gas mask during a dangerous occasion, such as a natural disaster, you have to be able to see clearly the surroundings and the environment around, so that you can avoid obstacles and threats like fire or debris.
All in all, the perfect size of a gas mask is the one that provides convenience when you wear it, stability so that it doesn’t move when it sits o the head of the user, and clear visibility for moving around the place without difficulty.
Gas mask sizes
Gas mask sizes are no different from sizes of conventional head gear, such as hats. You can find any type of common size in the market, as manufacturers provide several size variations from every gas mask model they create.
Large size
If you are a big guy, then you already know that you should go for a large-sized respirator. This way, you are not going to feel it pressing your head while you are working or using it to protect yourself in an emergency. What is more, making sure that you have a large and comfortable gas mask, will allow you to make use of the bigger viewing area and have better control of the visibility levels.
Here are some large-sized gas masks:
- SGE 1 Gas Mask/Respirator 400/3 Large
- Israeli Military Spec Gas Mask NBC
Medium size
In case you are considered an average-sized man, you should go for the regular gas mask model, which most of the times is the main gas mask advertised by the company that manufactured it. Make sure that the straps stabilize the gas mask around your head, as the medium size sometimes tends to be bigger or smaller depending on the manufacturer sizing metrics.
Here are two medium-sized gas masks:
Small size
For people that are below the average height and weight, my best recommendation is going for small-sized gas masks and respirator. Keep in mind though, that different metrics take place when it comes to head sizes, and this is why you are advised to put on the gas mask and test before you buy it. This way, you will avoid purchasing a mask that is too tight and presses your head.
Here are some small-sized gas mask models:
Gas mask types and size
The size of a gas mask depends on the type. There are two main types of respirators and gas masks: full-face and half-face. Each one determines the size of the actual gas mask model that you are about to acquire.
Full face gas mask models such as the Full Face Respirator by Parcil Distribution are usually larger than half-face gas masks. They are able to provide more protection, since they cover the entire face and they come in all sizes to fit every head shape.
On the other hand, half-mask faces, like their name states, cover the lower half of the face from the nose down. Such masks, like the 5500 Series Half Mask by North are typically used in activities and situations that do not require face and eye protection, such as painting or workout.
What kind of gas mask should I buy?
There are hundreds of different gas mask models available in the market for you to choose from. Whether you are a collector, a prepper or a person who is required to purchase a gas mask in order to use it at work, the kind of gas mask you should buy depends on a variety of factors.
The main thing you need to keep in mind no matter the reason you need the gas mask, is that having such a highly protective gear for your face and head, guarantees that you will be able to breathe safely if you ever find yourself in a contaminated place.
Gas masks like the CDR 4500 Elite Gas Mask which you can check here for more info, are designed to protect the user from all types of hazardous gases and fumes, allowing him to inhale the air without worrying about the pollutants or harmful particles that are transferred through it.
So, it all comes down to your personal needs. You need to determine why you need the gas mask, and decide on a model according to the safety levels you want to achieve. Fortunately, there are various gas masks in all price ranges, making them very affordable even for people on very limited budgets.
If you have the money to invest, I would advise you to search and purchase the best gas mask you can in order to get the highest respiratory protection available. Gas masks like the 3M Safety 7800S-M which you can check here, are going to filter and purify the air no matter the conditions in which you use them.
Gas masks for preparedness
Preppers are the type of people that want to be ready in case of an emergency, such as a nuclear attack, a chemical attack or radiation. Gas masks are a very important part of their preparedness along with other types of supplies and general survival plans that will allow them to save their lives.
If you want to be prepared too for such sudden incidents that are life-threatening for the majority of people, then acquiring a gas mask might be a necessity for you. A mask model like the Full Face Respirator by Parcil Distribution is an ideal choice, as it is capable of offering protection in multiple occasions.
In addition to a gas mask, preppers tend to be prepared for injuries or other types of emergencies such as lack of food or water, or even cases where they may need to defend themselves from threats.
For such situations, storing a supply bag into a safe place of your home or apartment might be the smartest idea. There are great survival supply bags, like the Premium Family Emergency Survival Bag which can help you keep going for several days in case of an extreme situation.
Gas masks and survival bags, provide you the ability to leave home as soon as the unexpected incident takes place, and will provide protection and supplies in hostile environments. Just remember to keep them close and have them available at any time.
Gas masks for collectors
Collecting gas masks is a hobby for many people. Due to their beautiful designs, gas masks like for example the GP-5 Original Soviet Civilian Protective Gas Mask tend to be collected by people because of their authentic structure that reminds gas masks of the WWII.
If this is the case for you too, then we are happy to inform you that there is a large number of original gas masks available in very affordable prices for you to start (or continue) your collection.
Gas masks like the Israeli Rubber Respirator Mask provide a sense of originality, as its design and functionality doesn’t differ a lot from the authentic gas mask model used to protect soldiers a few decades ago in the war.
Most of the masks that are suitable for collection purposes, comes with the original filters and canisters, which offer the complete experience to the collector. One of my favorite gas mask models, which also comes in a very low price, is the Rubber Mask for Respiratory Protection by GP which you can find here.
Gas masks for the workplace
This is one of the most important reasons why you have to acquire a high quality head gear in order to protect your breathing or face. When it comes to working daily in contaminated environments, or place that there are lots of fumes or smoke produced, then my advice is to go for the best gas mask possible.
This way, you are going to be able to protect yourself and the health of your lungs effectively, resting assured that your work does not cause you any health issues. Make sure that you test multiple times the gas masks or respirators you are about to purchase, to avoid facing accidents.
In order to protect your respiratory system from daily exposure to pollutants or harmful fumes, going for a high quality gas mask like the SGE 1 Gas Mask Respirator 400 is the smart way. You don’t want to risk your health at any cost.
Furthermore, if your budget allows you too, I would recommend you to invest bigger amounts of money into the highest quality protective equipment you can find. For example, going for a magnificent gas mask model like the 3M Full Facepiece Respirator is the greatest investment for your safety.
Why you should buy a gas mask
Buying a gas mask is not a requirement for all people. In fact, if you are leaving in a nice, quiet neighborhood of the world that nothing unsettling ever happens, then you don’t need. That said, preparedness for an emergency that might happen or not is never a bad thing.
On the other hand, if you work in a contaminated working environment with lots of exposure to gases or debris, or if you live in a polluted area, or in the rare case that you have to visit a radioactive part of the world, then you should definitely consider buying a quality gas mask from a trustworthy manufacturer for maximum protection of your health.
There are various different kinds of gas masks available for you to buy in case you need one to keep yourself safe from pollutants and particles. Filtering and making the air breathable for your lungs, should be your priority and you are advised to look for the most effective gas masks possible.
Where to buy a gas mask
If you are into gas masks and respirators and you want to search and find the best models in the market, then fortunately there a few easy-to-reach places where you can buy a gas mask without too much effort. The two main places for quality gas masks are the obvious ones, Amazon.com and Ebay.com, although there are a few more great shops which specialize in gas mask sales.
That said, below we have compiled a list with some of the best places where you can find all kinds of gas masks depending on your needs. Here they are:
- Amazon.com
- Ebay.com
- Rddusa.com
- Approvedgasmasks.com
- Majorsurplus.com
- Budk.com
Obviously, the more you search, you will be able to find more shops with nice varieties of gas masks and respirators which are going to fulfill your specific needs, whether it is your hobby, leisure or domestic activity or acquiring protective head gear for your workplace to make your job safer.
In this article, we are going to search for gas mask models from the two biggest suppliers in the market, Amazon and Ebay. Searching in both marketplaces, you will find huge varieties of any type of gas mask and respirator from reputable manufacturers in all price ranges.
Gas masks at Amazon.com
Let’s start with Amazon, where it is more than certain that you are going to find the gas mask of your dreams no matter what. With a simple search, you will be presented with a very big gallery of gas masks or respirators.
If you need the gas mask for a specific purpose, you can adjust the filtering and make your search more accurate and narrow. For example, if you need a large-sized gas mask to fit the shape of your head, you can filter the sizes and search only for large gas masks which you are going to find more comfortable.
Here are some gas masks that we recommend from Amazon:
1 – Mestel Safety SGE 150
For those that take their gas masks’ effectiveness seriously, the SGE 1 Gas Mask Respirator 400 is the ideal mask model for a number of reasons. First of all, we are talking about a high quality military gas masks which meets all the NATO requirements and specifications.
Getting a little deeper, we can see that it is a full face gas mask, which means that the skin of your face stays protected from hot gases and ashes at all times, along with your lungs. It provides great visibility, and a tube can be added separately if you request it from the manufacturer. A great gas mask model.
2 – 3M 6000 Series Full Facepiece Respirator
3M is a company that constantly provides protective head gear of significant quality, and this is also the case with the 3M Full Facepiece Respirator which you can find on Amazon. It is an extremely durable gas mask, which can be used for a large variety of purposes and protect the user equally well.
The filters and the cartridges of the particular gas mask are sold separately, although they are pretty easy to find from the same manufacturer. It can protect any individual from almost all types of gases and fumes, and is also ideal for certain professions such as welding or wood processing.
3 – Honeywell 54001 North
The third option is another high quality multipurpose gas mask, which is designed to keep the user safe under any circumstances. The Honeywell 54001 North offers amazing optical clarity, and large viewing area which makes any working process as easy as it gets.
You can very easily avoid fogging because of the nose cup, and it wears very comfortably on any type of head because of its elasticity, which adds a significant amount of comfort to the wearer. The straps allow you to adjust the fitting to your own liking for even better stability.
Gas masks at Ebay.com
While on Amazon you can find great gas masks, Ebay is another great place to search for mask models that are going to fit your workplace or domestic needs. What is more, on Ebay you can additionally find rare vintage gas masks, such as original gas mask models from WWII for instance.
If you are looking for something specific regarding respirators, you are advised to make an advanced search to both places until you find what you are looking for. Sometimes one marketplace offer gas masks that the other place doesn’t and the opposite.
These are the gas masks that we recommend from Ebay:
1 – AVON Manufactured M53 Gas Mask
The first item, the AVON Manufactured M53 Gas Mask is a magnificent mask which is sold in many different sizes for comfort and convenience regarding the fitting on the head. Additionally, the straps allow the user to tighten or loose the mask when he puts it on to fit his individual needs.
AVON is a highly trustworthy manufacturer, providing constantly the market with great gas masks that allow the user to stay safe and protected from a wide variety of particulates. This mask model can be used for a number of purposes, no matter the difficulty level.
2 – M40 Full Face Chemical-Biological Gas Mask
A more affordable option is the M40 Full Face Chemical-Biological Gas Mask which you can find on Ebay. It is a military gas mask, one of the models that has served the US Army for many years and has effectively protected the US soldiers in the field of battle.
The M40 is considered a legend among gas mask due to its history, and it is more than certain that is going to satisfy the people that are into tactical and protective head gear.
3 – British WWI & WWII SBR Respirator Gas Mask
Last but not least, we recommend another legendary gas mask model that was used by the British Army in WWI and WWII. The British WWI & WWII SBR Respirator Gas Mask is a vintage protective mask model, which offers magnificent protection from chemicals.
Although more efficient and technologically advanced gas mask have taken its place nowadays, it is a must for gas mask collectors that want an original model for their collection. It comes at a fairly affordable price, sold at an excellent condition.
Before you buy a gas mask
When you are about to buy a gas mask, first of all you need to identify what mask model you need by determining your purpose. Fortunately, there is a wide variety of different gas mask models in the market, each one fulfilling a specific purpose for the buyer.
Amazon.com and Ebay.com are two great places to start looking for a gas mask if you are a beginner. However, if you search the web, you can find additional marketplaces and shops that offer a great range of gas masks for you to buy.
Do your research and buy the best gas mask!
Learn more about your gas mask
While most of us want to know how we can use gas masks for protection against airborne viruses, pollutants, particles and contaminants, we rarely pay attention to the materials used in order to manufacture a gas mask in the first place.
Gas masks are made of a variety of different materials, which are used in several different ways depending on the usage intention of the gas mask. For example, there are other materials used for gas masks which will serve a purpose for the military, and different types of materials for gas masks intended for industrial use.
Gas masks for industrial use:
- SCK Full Face Respirator Gas Mask
- Holulo Organic Vapor Full Face Respirator
- Gas masks for military use:
- Avon Full Face Respirator M50 Gas Mask
- CDR 4500 Elite Gas Mask
In addition to the usage intention, there are also several different styles of gas masks available in the market. For instance, someone can choose between full-face gas masks (that cover the entire face), and half-face gas masks, that cover the mouth and nose only. It all depends on how you are going to use the mask, and the level of protection you need.
ALSO READ: How to Clean a Gas Mask
What are gas masks made of?
In order to have a better understanding the way that gas masks are manufactured today, we need to look into the different parts of a gas mask separately, and analyze each one’s unique structure. There are 4 main gas mask parts, which are made of several different materials:
Face Cover
The face cover is the largest piece of a gas mask, which holds all the other pieces together. Full face gas masks have bigger face covers than half face gas masks as it is expected, and they are used in order to protect the face of the user from various factors such as heat and debris.
Gas mask manufacturers use the face cover as the area that provides a fully protective seal against gases and fumes. In order to release gases out of the mask without letting them in, most gas masks use exhalation valves which are fit for the job.
Silicon rubber is the most common material used to make a gas mask face cover. The reason why, is because silicon rubber is highly resistant to extreme temperatures which are very common when intended for industrial use, and it has high levels of flexibility in order to fit the head of the user.
Filter cartridges
The filter cartridge is probably the most important part of a gas mask. It filters the contaminated or polluted air, purifies it and transfers it to the mouth piece, where it can be safely inhaled by the user of the gas mask without causing danger to the lungs.
The filter cartridge is mainly a canister which is made of plastic as a rule of thumb. The size of the canister is about 4 inches or around 10 centimeters. On the other hand, the depth of the canister is not as big, and is usually around 1 inch which is enough to consist of a filtration aid and enough rough room to filter and purify the air.
In order to filter the air, there are used various filters. The most common type of filtering is by using activated carbon. This type of gas mask filtering is most commonly used in order to manufacture gas masks, because of the fact that carbon has the ability to almost completely adsorb the largest amount of gases and fumes in comparison to other materials.
The main advantage of activated carbon is its ability to adsorb effectively organic gases. This makes it one of the most efficient way to protect the user of the gas mask from some of the most hazardous types of vapors, which are used in chemical and biological attacks.
The main material of a filter cartridge is styrene plastic, which is widely used to manufacture the majority of gas masks today. In order to create the cartridge, there are used two separate round pieces of metal, which are pressed and stuck together.
Lastly, in order to enhance the effectiveness of the filtering and the adsorption, manufacturers tend to affect chemically the carbon, creating the activated carbon. The level of enhancement and the levels of effectiveness depends solely on the intended use of the gas mask.
Straps
The straps of a gas mask are another piece of this particular head gear, which is of major importance. Like the main part of the mask, the face cover, they are usually made of silicon rubber which is widely used by the manufacturing companies because of its stability and high resistance.
The job of the straps, is to hold the mask steady around the head of the user. Furthermore, additional (usually smaller-sized) rubber straps are added to the gas mask, which are used to stabilize the neck as well as the head.
The attachment of the straps is achieved with the help of metal rivets. The metal rivets are responsible for the stability levels of the gas mask, and this is why they are locked tightly on the mask compared to the straps, which are looser for more flexibility.
ALSO READ: What Gas Mask Does The US Military Use
Eye pieces
Finally, the last (but equally important for the effectiveness of the gas mask) part is the eye pieces. The eye pieces, are essentially the lens (or lenses) of the gas mask, and they are there to provide the necessary protection from heat, debris and gases that may harm the eyes.
The eye pieces tend to be waterproof, resistant to heat and high temperatures, or even provide shade for certain levels of light to prevent flashes, similarly to welding helmets. The material used to create the eyepieces, is polycarbonate plastic.
After the face piece and the filter cartridges are complete, the eye pieces are the last parts of the gas mask (before the straps of course) that are used to assembly the mask.
The materials of a gas mask
To sum up, gas masks are made of several different materials, which are used all together in order to create a highly protective piece of headgear. Different parts of the gas mask (or a respirator) require different process when it comes to manufacturing.
The filtering and the sealing of the gas mask depends on the usage intention of the mask, and it is treated accordingly. Knowing what are gas masks made of, will help you learn how to take full advantage of your gas mask, and do a better job protecting yourself.
Final words
To sum up, the size of the gas mask you are about to acquire plays a very important role during the usage of the head gear, and it is essential that you choose a respirator or a gas mask that fits nicely the shape of your head.
This way, you are going to make sure that the mask is going to stay in play during a sudden incident, and that you are going to be safe no matter what.