In the modern world of terrorism, global epidemics, wildfires and other natural disasters, it’s no longer just survivalists that appreciate having gas masks in their kit. Military service members know that they can be used to protect them from airborne chemicals and particulates, as do law enforcement and citizens at public demonstrations where the police may use clouds of CS gas that affect all nearby bystanders.
The good news is that a high-quality gas mask can be affordable and easy to purchase. While some will require you to buy the filters and cartridges separately, there are complete sets that include everything needed to keep yourself safe and protected in a variety of situations.
This full-face respirator features a comfortable design that is lightweight and easy to wear for long periods of time. It’s designed for industrial use, but it’s also a great option for preppers and anyone who might need to defend themselves from sawdust, paint fumes or other contaminants. The face shield and mouthpiece are made from durable silicone that is resistant to stains and paints so you can clean it after every use. This design also offers an anti-fog feature so you won’t have to constantly wipe it down.
When choosing a gas mask, you’ll want to make sure it can be fitted securely around your face so there’s no chance of it falling off. This particular mask has adjustable straps that wrap around the head and a large lens for improved visibility. It also has a voice amplifier and an air system that prevents the mask from fogging up so you can continue to breathe easily.
You can use it with any standard 40mm NATO filters, so you won’t need to purchase any additional accessories. It also comes with a carrying strap and a pouch that makes it easier to transport. This is a military-style respirator that works best for adults, but it’s also available in a kids version to help younger family members be prepared in the event of an emergency or disaster.
Many of the gas masks on this list are rated N95, which means they’re able to filter out 95% of particulates that are less than 1 micron in size. However, gases can slip past these fine screens and can be harmful or even deadly for humans. In order to protect against these types of chemicals, you’ll need to have a separate gas absorbent cartridge, like activated charcoal, that will trap them as they pass through the filter.
This respirator from Syine is a full mask that combines the separate particulate and gas/vapor filters into one unit for added convenience. The mask is a little heavier than some other options but is still relatively lightweight, and the straps wrap around the head rather than hugging your ears, which can be more comfortable for some people. It’s a great choice for anyone who needs a simple, affordable way to prepare for a crisis or disaster. best gas masks