Code: 10746
WW1, Respirator Gas Mask.
First introduced during the later half of 1916 to provide reliable protection against chlorine and phosgene gas. This mask became a classic part of the silhouette of the allied soldier for the second half of WW1.
The respirator mask was a huge leap forward in gas protection, far outstripping in effectiveness any other gas protection. It was issued to Commonwealth troops, and to the US army.
This example is in a very good condition for its age. The rubberised fabric face mask is still supple and clean, although worn and with a few minor nicks. The lenses are still clear and fixed, and the bottom metal cast valve is in a very good condition. Inside the rubber mouth piece is clean and supple, and the nose clips are good with the mask interior being sound, but worn. The corrugated rubber hose has a couple of small splits and is miss-shapen in one place due to a long period of storage (see photos). The metal filter case is in excellent condition for its age, with its original yellow paint which is scratched, and with some minor surface rust showing, and the black stencil markings still present on the base. Externally the elastic fixing straps are good, if a little tired.
It looks to have been issued and dry stored after the war.
An excellent example of this 100 + year old, classic piece of equipment.
The helmet is not included.
