Posted: 11/22/2005 11:20:21 PM EDT
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Today was our annual qual in the USMC gas chamber. I was able to use a "P-2" mask ( a full view mask as opposed to the 2 piece inserts). I must say, it held up better than my old M40. It didn't fog up, the breathing apparatus didn't hinder breath control, the seal held, and the drinking tube actually worked! For those of you who have visited the chamber, I'm sure you don't miss all the excitement. I like the chamber better than being OC Sprayed.  |
| Thats the MCU-2AP mask, the one us flyboys use. I had the chance to use the M-40 with the Army, and both are identical except for the face shield area and color. Both are a PITA to use while shooting an M-4/M-16 though. I think the AF style mask is better overall despite the lack of ballistic eye protection. |
| The Marine Corps has gas masks that actually have working drinking tubes, and actually seal properly? I don't think i've ever gotten one that all those things worked properly, at the same time. The last one the issued me, it never sealed properly....good thing we never had a gas attack. |
I'm honestly surprised to hear that, we only get issued one mask per duty station for training and real world use. If we have non functioning parts/leaks etc. its a piece of cake to trade it in for or get it fixed. I actually have a spare MCU-2A/P if any of you guys going in harms way actually needs one. I know the Navy shortchanges you guys on funds but I figured the JSLIST suits and funtional M-40s would be high on the priority list. |
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Used the P-2 and the M40. The P-2 has better visibility but IMHO is not near as rugged as the M40. If I was out in the field, the M40 would be my pick hands down as I want a mask that I don't have to worry about, basically soldier proof. With the P-2, you have to worry about the seal failing around inner "visor" which is sealed to the silicon based rubber. I remember seeing several masks at EOD school fail in that area and it is the main reason the Army did not adopt it. |
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good morning. i had almost forgotten the gas chamber. thanks for reminding me. i was doing this crap about 35 years ago and didn't like it then. i probably wouldn't like it now. however, your post created an opportunity to share some more of my [pretty dull] history with my youngest kid. thanks. peace. billr |
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I used to love the gas chamber. We would get to see all kinds of idiots trying to scream and trying to make a break for the door. I also thought it was cool to feel the gas going up your nose and clearing your sinuses. My mask worked great in the chamber and overseas. |