Best Gas Masks – Full Face, Survival Models on Amazon [2020]

| Last Updated: January 13, 2022

You can survive 2 weeks without food, around 4 days without water, and only minutes without air.

So if you're looking for reasons to have the best gas mask on hand to save your life or just need one for home projects, you only really need one, and that's your life my friend.

Where are you going to find these masks with the best quality and also for the best price? Also, how will you know that what you've paid is really buying the best? After all, you've probably never bought gas masks before, so we've done the research for you and polled buyers who shared the good the bad and the ugly to tell us which gas masks were the best!

Comparison of the Best Gas Masks 

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • The design is efficient and convenient
  • The mask has dual N95 filters, making it the runner-up
  • It offers multi-purpose protection from all sorts of elements
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  • The viewing angle is wide and offers great visibility
  • It is made from silicone and thermoplastic elastomer
  • This mask uses 3M particulate filters, making it the best for tear gas
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Why Would You Need a Gas Mask?

That might be a naive question, but it's one you should ask yourself if you're willing to spend the money on one, right? So why do you need one, are you preparing for biological warfare, volcanic ash covering the earth, wildfires polluting the air? You need to know these things in order to make the best buying decision. 

Everyday Chores/Work

We forget that us humans can do a lot of stuff to mess up our breathing quality. Whether that's woodworking in a not so ventilated area, doing inspections in places that are less than sanitary, or painting the inside/outside of the house with a spray gun. Having a gas mask can come in handy if you're a handy man.

Biological Warfare

This is the most pressing of all the possibilities of needing a gas mask. With the invention of mustard gas in the first world war, the deadliness of man made gases hasn't subsided much.

With the development of technology there are some pretty nasty things that can be done with a gas canister. From planting diseases, causing blindness, and a host of other unpleasantries, a gas mask would be a handy thing to have just in case.

Volcanic Ash/Soot

Among all the natural disasters that loom over our heads on a daily basis, the threat of a volcanic explosion or sulfuric geyser going off in certain parts of the world are a threat to the air we breathe. Literally. 

Just the explosion from one of these natural forces would be enough to decimate a population surrounding it, but it's the after effects that the majority of the world needs to be ready for. Because these forces will spout all sorts of noxious fumes into the atmosphere, the winds will carry them far and wide, and before we know it the air is so thick with soot or gas that we can't breathe to save our lives.

Not to mention that it will bring on almost permanent night-time darkness, making proper vision hard to come by.

Wildfires

If you're a firefighter of any kind (thank you for your service first and foremost!), you know the dangers of smoke inhalation. The masks the firefighters wear aren't to keep their faces cool or just to complete the outfit, their masks supply life giving oxygen because the air has been sucked out by the fire or the smoke is too thick to breathe.

Yes, it is attached to an air tank, but for a brief time you'll be able to survive with a mask filled with condensed air, and since our planet is starving for water more and more each year, the threat of wildfires is increasing exponentially.

What Makes a Great Gas Mask?

There's a lot to consider when buying your mask, and the fact that movies and tv have made them almost comical and a parody makes it hard to find one that actually works and isn't just a prop. However, there are a few things that are easily distinguishable when surveying the best ones.

Make Sure it's NBC Marked/Approved

NBC (Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical) approval is paramount when buying your mask. As we said earlier, most masks are just props now so make sure yours meets these requirements. If it is truly NBC approved there should be designated spots for WORKING respirators. If there's just a solid case, then you know you don't have the real thing.

Ease of Use of a Gas Mask

This sounds basic, but it's important. There are parents in the gulf war who killed their children because they didn't realize they had to remove the cover on the carbon filter of the mask.

You don't just strap it on when you think one of the kids are sick, even though we've all been there, but you keep it safe and decontaminated so it's ready for when it really counts. Like when it's been broad casted that a natural disaster has happened miles away and you have time to prepare.

One thing to keep in mind is that the gas mask won't work if you're already exposed before you put it on in a chemical warfare situation.

Does Your Mask Have a One Use Filter?

To keep masks from becoming contaminated after use, some producers make these masks for one use and that's it. While that's smart it might not be that cost efficient for the consumer. So when you're shopping around make sure you find masks that are reusable. Obviously all the masks that we will be recommending are for multiple uses.

Review of the Best Gas Masks

For this review, we'll be looking at some of the best gas masks of 2019. We will take a detailed look at all the features each one has to offer and all other various aspects. So, let's dive right in and find out what sets these apart from the others. Below are the top rated gas masks of the year:

Best Overall: 
PD-100 Full Face Organic Vapour Respirator

No products found.

Pros

  • The air circulation technology used is superb
  • The fitting is very good thanks to its five straps
  • The mask is built to take on any sort of heavy impact
  • It has a silicone nose cup and facial cushions for further protection
  • It can be utilized in various situations as it offers superior protection

Cons

  • Glasses need to be removed before wearing it

What Recent Buyers Report

Generally, buyers are pleased with their purchases. They enjoy the mask due to the various features it has to offer. Many like the fact that eye protection is built into it and that it protects the entire face. However, there have been a few buyers who have had issues with its quality.

Why it Stands Out to Us 

Well, first of all, the design is one that can easily grab attention, and apart from the obvious features and functions, there are a few details that make it stand apart. For example, the glass used for eye protection does not fog over. Other than that, communication with the mask on is easy as well.

Who Will Use This Most 

The company lists a number of industries that can benefit from using this mask. These include chemical laboratories, agriculture, mining, pharmaceuticals, and general manufacturing and even for epidemic prevention. It should be kept in mind that it cannot be used for freighting or military purposes. 

Bottom Line

The PD-100 Full Face Organic Vapour Mask is a very well-designed mask that has a good filter. It can be used in several situations, making it very versatile and useful. The attention it pays to small details is what makes it eligible for the runner-up position.

Best for Tear Gas:
3M Full Facepiece Reusable Respirator 6700

No products found.

Pros

  • The mask is lightweight and easy to handle
  • The wide view allows for an unobstructed field of vision
  • Since it is mostly made from silicone, it is comfortable to use
  • It comes in three different sizes so it can cover people of all sizes
  • It is quite sturdy, so it lasts a long time without sustaining a lot of damage

Cons

  • The filters must be purchased separately, making it a little pricey

What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers of this product have mostly been pleased with it. The positive reviews detail how comfortable it was and how well it fits. Moreover, the lens was also praised as it does not get fogged. A few negative reviews detailed how it cannot be used with eyewear on and that the filters have to be purchased separately.

Why it Stands Out to Us 

The mask is lightweight yet sturdy, and that is one feature that makes this one shine. The lens of this is another thing that needs to be appreciated. It offers a clear and wide view, which makes functioning while wearing the mask easier. Lastly, it comes in three different sizes; that is something that needs to be highlighted.

When it comes to reusability and an increased field of view, no one does it better than 3M! The wrapped shape of the mask surrounds your face and makes peripheral vision a possibility when wearing a gas mask. Also the facets for air filters on either side allow you to just switch filters when needed, and not replace the whole mask.

While the shape contours to your face, the mask itself can be rather stiff. Not so stiff that it's meant to fit only one person, but stiff enough to cause some discomfort and make the seal around the face compromised. Wearing glasses with this mask is not recommended with the stiffness. Click here to get yours.

Who Will Use This Most 

The company specifies that this mask should be used for industrial or occupational use only. This would generally include handling chemicals, acid, or paint. It could also be used in an area that often has toxic fumes or other such vapors.

Bottom Line

This is a good product in almost every aspect. It offers functionality with a considerable amount of comfort. The different sizes have allowed the user to find the perfect fit. Moreover, it is lightweight and has great filters as well.

3. Israeli Rubber Respirator Mask

No products found.

Pros

  • It offers NBC protection
  • The mask is one-size-fits-all, and the straps can easily be adjusted
  • Not only is this gas mask lightweight, but it is also quite comfortable
  • It also provides a rather large field of vision and effective communication
  • The mask is made from the highest quality and professional-grade materials
  • It can be used for various purposes, including both commercial and industrial

Cons

  • The fitting may be difficult for some people with larger measurements

What Recent Buyers Report

The majority of the buyers are more than satisfied with the product they received. This takes into account everything from the quality to the functionality of the mask. They also like how well the filter works, and it fits well on most people. There are very few complaints to be found and are mostly about the fitting.

Why it Stands Out to Us 

The actual question is, how could it not stand out? It is a high-quality mask, which has a high-quality filter and is made from the best materials. Furthermore, it also comes with a drinking tube for the ease of the user. Another thing to take into account is how easy to handle, and lightweight this mask is.

The Israeli style gas mask is usually what people think of when they think disaster preparedness. For one it's one of the most popular because of the price. At under $20, whereas most useful masks are over $100, the israeli gas mask is the bare bones in functional gas masks, and if you're goal is to terrify the neighbors then this should do the trick!

One problem people have been having when they buy these masks from amazon is that the air filters are expired. Which isn't good business, but also doesn't render the mask useless, all you have to do is go buy a new air filter which should cost less than the mask itself. Click here to get yours.

Who Will Use This Most 

As specified before, this mask is made for both commercial and industrial use. Given the specifications of the mask, it would be a great help while dealing with excess fumes. These fumes can come from absolutely any source such as tear gas or smoke. It also protects against sand and dust and can also be used while painting.

Bottom Line

This mask can prove to be a great investment. It's a product that can be used for various purposes and has a strong filter that ensures that it does what it is made to do.

4. SAS Safety 7650-61 Opti-Fit Full-face APR Respirator

No products found.

Pros

  • The nose cup prevents fogging
  • It is easy and comfortable to wear
  • The polycarbonate lens can be replaced
  • It is made from materials that are sturdy and durable
  • The five head strap design provides a firm and easy fit

Cons

  • This mask does not have enough space to accommodate eyewear

What Recent Buyers Report.

The reviews from recent buyers of this mask are very positive. Its durability is appreciated amongst all users. It can be used in dusty conditions without the performance of the mask being affected. Its quality is also praised alongside the fact that it is really easy to adjust.

Why it Stands Out to Us 

The mask has many great features. However, if we were to pinpoint a favorite, then it would be the wide viewing area that it has. It can offer a large and comfortable field of vision without any obstructions. The lens is also coated with a scratch-resistant film, which makes sure the lens is protected.

For most people, the silicone finish on the sides of the face piece sealed the deal for comfort when wearing the mask for long periods of time. The nose guard helps to reduce the fogging in the face mask. This is an extremely popular choice if you're doing some DIY stuff around the house, when it comes to saving your life in a natural disaster, there's been no real tests done.

The debate on if this mask is truly a comfortable fit while wearing glasses rages on, but from what we've seen from those who've bought it, the overwhelming majority haven't had a problem with the fit while wearing glasses.

Who Will Use This Most 

The wide viewing angle of this unit is ideal for people who work with craft or manufacturing. It is great to use against varnishes, polishes, paint, and other chemicals that let out strong fumes. It can also be used while working with hardwood and similar materials.

Bottom Line

If you want a top-notch mask on a budget, then this one will offer you a great deal. It has many amazing features, and it is not very pricey either. Furthermore, it offers a great field of vision and is sturdy and lightweight too.

Best NBC Gas Mask:
GP-5 Original Soviet Civilian Protective Gas Mask

No products found.

Pros

  • The lenses do not fog
  • It can be adjusted easily and provides a very snug fit
  • The mask can last in an NBC situation for a total of 24 hours
  • It is a sturdy mask offering the maximum level of protection
  • It can be used in extremely cold temperatures as well as hot temperatures

Cons

  • It tends to have an unpleasant smell of latex

What Recent Buyers Report

This mask has been praised for its qualities by a number of buyers. Its sturdiness and the fact that it works so well are two things that have been highlighted frequently in reviews. Apart from that, the fit is another thing that has been talked about. However, some buyers have complaints about unpleasant odors. They have also complained that it is sometimes too dirty to use.

Why it Stands Out to Us 

Well, it is a mask that works best in NBC situations, and that is enough to make it stand out. However, the fact that it can be used in extreme temperatures is also something that has caught our eye. 

Who Will Use This Most 

This mask is famous as it has been used by Russian civilians during the Chernobyl incidents. Since it offers protection from radioactive particles, it is best kept for emergencies. It can also be used by those who work in environments that expose them to radioactive particles.

Bottom Line

Although some have complained that it has an unpleasant odor, the mask itself works very well. In case of an emergency, the odor will be the last thing on anyone's mind. Furthermore, it has good filters, which make it quite reliable in the time of need.

Aspects to Consider Before Buying

The following are a few aspects that you should look for before purchasing a gas mask for yourself.

The Filters

This is perhaps the most important thing to consider. What kind of filters does the mask have? To what extent do they filter out smoke, dust, fumes, and other particles? Are they actually effective? You must thoroughly research all these questions before choosing your pick.

Comfort

Yet another important aspect is comfort. A mask that is uncomfortable once you put it on is practically of no use. Why? Because you will always want to take it off and that is not ideal. So, make sure that your pick is made from the right materials, preferably silicone. Comfort also encompasses the fit of the mask. The fit should be good so that it sits well and snug on your head and face.

Lightweight

The mask should not be too heavy; otherwise, carrying it can become a nightmare. It will be worse when you have to wear it as it will keep weighing your head down.

Lens

Finally, the lens should be clean and clear. The lens is the only source of visibility once you put the mask on. It should not be scratched, and neither should it fog over.

Types of Gas Masks

There are two different types of gas masks discussed in the review. Before investing in one, you should know which one is the best for you.

Full Face Gas mask 

These are your typical and most commonly used ones. They cover your entire face and head and have goggle-like lenses that help you see. These lenses are usually made from plastic or glass. The higher quality ones are usually made from glass.

The filter on these is situated slightly below the mouth area. These usually offer the most protection.

Air Purifying Respirator

These masks are the cheaper alternative and do not cover the whole face and head like the ones discussed earlier. Some of them only cover the nose and mouth area, while others offer a visor-like structure. These are better for less dangerous occupations where the main focus is to protect oneself from harmful air.

Conclusion

With this, we bring our review for the best gas mask to an end. However, when you choose one for yourself, do keep in mind all the aspects discussed earlier on. We hope this review was able to help you choose the best mask for you!

People Also Ask

These are a few questions that are frequently asked by people who want to or are interested in buying a gas mask. We have compiled a few of the top questions for you.

Can Anyone Use a Gas Mask? 

Technically yes. However, it is slightly harder to breathe with one on so people with breathing problems or lung disease will find it a bit difficult to use one.

How Long Does a Filter/Cartridge Last? 

Both filters and cartridges do not last forever. They have a certain capacity and a shelf life. Each one has a different shelf life and capacity so you will have to change them when needed.

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