It came with the 2 side filters already attached.
My questions are:
- Are the filters still effective and how do they fit on the mask?
You say attached and you say how do they fit.
M17 filters fit inside the cheek pouches. They will not be seen from the outside.
You may want to read [url=http://www.atsc.army.mil/itsd/comcor/cm1036s.htm]here[/url] and [url=http://155.217.58.58/cgi-bin/atdl.dll/fm/3-4/Ch1.htm]here[/url] and [url=http://www.nofuture.com/lmag/articles/m17/m17.htm] here[/url].
- What do these filters protect the wearer from?
Due to age, and especially if they are out of the original packaging, little if anything, CS at best, no NBC qualities at all.
- Can I find other types of filters for different protections.
While there are some filter available, again, due to age few offer any NBC protection.
- What is the 2" diameter perforated disk for (I can see the light thru some of the holes).
There are small disks which go inside (whiteish) and larger ones (black) which go on the outside.
- What should I add to the present system in order to drink with the mask on?
If you have the A1/A2, it has a drinking tube, you only need a canteen with a adapter cap.
- Can I enhance communication when I talk?
What you hear is what you get.
The only reason I have any 17's left is because I was trained on them, know the system well, perform constant PMCS to insure they are serviceable, have spare parts, and have them stashed [b]ONLY[/b] as a means to get to my M40's. These masks are old, serviceable filters are hard to come by, and even sealed ones are risky at best.