8 Best Gas Masks, Face Masks, Respirators, & Filters [Hands-On]

From wood dust to viruses, smoke, tear gas, and even nuclear fallout...we've got you covered.

We've researched, asked experts, and hand-selected the best gas masks and respirators for a variety of safety and prepping scenarios.

Then, we tested them for fit, function, and value.

And for the extreme ones...we even gassed ourselves and tested our rifle shooting ability.

So get ready for lots of pics and even some videos. By the end, you'll know the best protection for your purpose.

*Editor's Note: If you're looking for a mask to protect against riot control agents, we recommend a full-face respirator with at least an A2 P3 rating.

Gas Mask & Respirator Comparison Chart

How We Tested the Best Gas Masks & Respirators

For this article, the Pew Pew Tactical team received several gas masks and respirators and tested them side-by-side, wearing them and using irritants to assess their protection level.

Products were assessed on fit and function, performance, and overall value.

Each mask was rated based on how well it fit and sealed against the face. A proper seal is crucial for protection, so to test this, our team exposed themselves to pepper spray grenades to determine protection levels. During this testing, we observed whether the irritant penetrated the mask and whether the mask remained functional throughout the duration of testing.

We also considered adjustability, comfort, compatibility with accessories like drinking straws and filters, and availability when choosing this list.

Best Gas Masks & Respirators

*Editor's Note: If you're looking for a mask to protect against riot control agents, we recommend a full-face respirator with at least an A2 P3 rating.

1. MIRA Safety CM-7M - Editor's Pick CBRN Mask

Pew Pew Tactical readers get 10% off at Mira right now with code PREPARE10!

Editor's Pick CBRN Mask

Mira Safety CM-7M Tactical Gas Mask

$289

at Mira Safety

Prices accurate at time of writing

$289 at Mira Safety

Amazon (see price)

MIRA is Texas-based and makes gas masks, safety equipment, and tactical gear used by the U.S. Department of Defense and plenty of other countries.

The CM-7M is perfect for those who need a gas mask for shooting.

It's rated CBRN which stands for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, & Nuclear.

But doesn't the "N" already stand for "Nuclear?" The extra "R" protects against dirty bomb isotope fallout.

It does that with different materials...in this case...butyl rubber, which is much more resistant to fallout, chemical warfare agents, and toxic industrial chemicals.

It's ambidextrous in filter attachment. The main thing that makes shooting easier is the depression at the cheek.

Unfortunately, it means you have to switch to the bug-eye design...but the field of view was still very adequate, especially with an unmagnified optic.

I shot a competition with it and a 1-6x scope which took some practice beforehand but is totally doable.

It also comes with the drinking straw attachment, although in a different area.

Check out the inside...

And for these...I'd recommend sticking with the MIRA filters.

Editor's Pick Filter

MIRA NBC-77 SOF 40mm Filter

$80

at Mira Safety

Prices accurate at time of writing

$80 at Mira Safety

Amazon (see price)

Now...we wanted to do some sort of test.

Amazingly, Amazon sells some Pepper Spray Grenades. Now, don't get too excited...it was a little underwhelming...

Less grenade...and more upward spray.

But the two MIRAs passed with flying colors. And yes...the pepper spray was in the air and got all over our Tyvek suits. I found out the hard way when I touched my eyes and lips afterward.

For when you need CBRN protection AND the ability to easily shoot a rifle...check out the CM-7M. See our hands-on review here.

What's your rating?

And if you want the full protection suite for really bad times...check out Mira's CBRN Poncho or their CBRN Hazmat Suit.

You can couple it with some decontamination gloves and even Thyrosafe for protection against your thyroid-absorbing radioactive iodine.

Check out our Best Hazmat Suits for more info on the full protection suite.

2. MIRA Safety CM-6M

Remember, Pew Pew Tactical readers get 10% off with PREPARE10 coupon code at Mira!

Mira Safety CM-6M Tactical Gas Mask

$275

at Mira Safety

Prices accurate at time of writing

$275 at Mira Safety

Amazon (see price)

The CM-6M is also rated for CBRN.

It's also very comfy, and you get the choice of attaching the filter on either side depending on your rifle hand dominance.

However, the CM-6M was more designed for a full field of view rather than rifle shooting.

I found I had to tilt my rifle a little to get a good view through my optic. With un-magnified optics, it will be a little easier.

Plus, you might get thirsty, right...but can't remove your mask?

The mask comes with a drinking straw!

Which attaches nicely to the canteen.

As for filters...you can run standard 40mm filters. Or better yet...check out MIRA's very own.

They can be stored for up to 20 years instead of 5 years. Which probably turns out to be a better deal if you aren't likely to use them.

A good rule of thumb is two filters per person per day.

MIRA NBC-77 SOF 40mm Filter

$80

at Mira Safety

Prices accurate at time of writing

$80 at Mira Safety

Amazon (see price)

There's also a new smaller P3 Virus Filter (P100 European equivalent) that comes in packs of 6. A good deal if you aren't looking at radiological or nuclear protection.

Best Filter for Viral Threats

P3 Virus Filter (6-Pack)

$160

at Mira Safety

Prices accurate at time of writing

$160 at Mira Safety

As for the CM-6M...they might be the best choice for you if you value extreme protection from almost everything out there...and want a comfy large field of view.

We've also done a full review of the CM-6M.

3. 3M Half-Face Respirator 7502 & 6200 - Best Half Mask

Best Half Mask

3M Medium Half Face Respirator

$16

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$16 at Amazon

Boom...let's amp it up a little.

This 3M Half Face Respirator uses disposable filters so you can keep reusing the "shell."

The half-face respirator is great for better protection of your nose and mouth since it creates a nice seal.

However, they are sized, and I'm wearing a medium.

The attachments are also pretty comfy and intuitive...and don't require someone to help you put them on.

For filters... there are the ones I'm wearing that are P100 plus Organic Vapor Relief.

Which basically means it blocks some smelly stuff.

3M Particulate Filter with Organic Vapor Relief

$30

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$30 at Amazon

There are also other form factors, such as the 7093B P100 filters, which are encased in plastic so they protect from water and wetness.

I'd also recommend the 3M 7093 for prepping since you don't know your situation. But the other ones are good for regular work when you know you won't get wet.

I have a big stash of half-face respirators to protect against big wildfires and disease outbreaks.

But you've still got your eyes and ears to take care of...

That's why I combo it with some simple goggles that give me a nice seal.

DEWALT Concealer Clear Anti-Fog Dual Mold Safety Goggle

$10

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$10 at Amazon

And also some earplugs. If you're a shooter, those foamy things are all you need. But we also have a guide for the Best Electronic Ear Protection too.

*Update* Since this is a big step up in protection and you'll look a little too cautious (at least right now)...they are somewhat in stock.

If my above is out of stock, or you need more sizes...use our 3M Respirator Search.

And if my main pick for eye protection is out, try our Safety Goggles Search. Be sure to get one with a tight seal.

If you want a cheaper option from 3M, then I suggest checking out the 6200. It's a decent quality respirator but half the cost.

3M 6200 Half Facepiece Respirator

$15

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$15 at Amazon

4. Mestel Full Face SGE 150 - Editor's Pick NBC Mask

Editor's Pick NBC Mask

Mestel Full Face Respirator

$112

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$112 at Amazon

This used to be my primary pick, but it's rarely in stock anymore.

The Mestel SGE 150 and equivalent gas masks give you NBC protection and the ability to use regular 40mm filters.

Mestel is an Italian company of diving masks, so it's essentially a modified mask to fit NATO filters.

It has a huge field of view and is pretty comfy!

No fogging up. Guessing their background has some advantages.

Check out the inside...simple but to the point.

*Update*: Amazon is taking off gas masks and filters, so sometimes the Mestel is gone or not named directly.

I would check out Mira's more budget conscious CM-I01 mask that's usually in stock instead. We're currently testing it out but it will likely replace the Mestel in our next update.

5. 3M P100/N95 Particulate Respirator - Best KN95

Best KN95

3M P100 Particulate Respirator

$11

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$11 at Amazon

Probably what you think of when you first hear "gas mask."

But...these are known as respirators, and the 3M P100 above isn't your regular dust mask or even surgical mask.

There are a TON of acronyms and numbers in the respiratory protection game.

If you're getting something affordable and compact...get something with a P100 rating.

The more normal N95 is not oil resistant and only filters 95% of airborne particles .3 microns in size or larger.

While the P100 is oilproof and filters at least 99.97% of airborne particles. If oil isn't a problem...check out N100 Respirators as well.

The 3M P100 filter is my basic pick since it's affordable and also has an exhalation valve, so it doesn't get too stuffy after long use.

Easy to keep in your bug-out bag or vehicle. Plus, I use them for minor woodworking and renovation touring.

Still...you're missing 5% protection there.

They are going in and out of stock all the time, so use the N95 Respirator Search.

6. Parcil PD-100 Respirator - Runner Up Mask

Best Industrial Mask

Parcil PD-100 Full Face Respirator

$120

at Parcil Distribution

Prices accurate at time of writing

$120 at Parcil Distribution

Want to step it up a little with full-face protection or a comfy half-face respirator?

Let's check out the full-face PD-100, which comes with a set of N95 filters.

Installation of the filters is really easy...just twist them on.

The first thing that struck me was that it was actually really comfortable with a wide view.

Plus, there wasn't any fogging (although I was only standing and writing at my desk for a few hours).

The name of the game is fit, and the PD-100 has adjustable straps that auto-lock for a snug seal by yourself.

And a view inside shows the soft rubber.

A very nice mask that gives a good seal and comes with a set of N95 filters already.

And one that came in a few days.

Don't need full-face protection? Check out the T-60 half-face respirator.

But if you go the T-60 or PD-100 route...be sure to get the correct kind of twist on/off filters (PA1 Dual Filters) and not "bayonet" style ones.

7. Israeli NATO Surplus Gas Mask

Israeli Rubber Respirator Mask NBC Protection

$198

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$198 at Amazon

Now we're getting into real "gas mask" territory.

These Israeli gas masks are popular with the prepping crowd.

Plus, they offer NBC protection...which stands for:

• Nuclear
• Biological
• Chemical

They sometimes come with a fresh-ish filter (this one expired in 2008). And can take regular Western 40mm ones.

And surprisingly...decently comfortable despite the appearance. However, I did experience some fogging after a few minutes.

Visibility is also not bad with the two eye holes.

My recommendation is to go super budget with a full-faced gas mask.

Make sure to pick up some new gas mask filters while you're at it, though.

8. Russian Surplus Gas Mask

Ok...this is an example of what NOT to get.

Unless you're doing some kind of cosplay...just don't.

Russian surplus gas masks use a different filter threading, so you probably can't use new Western filters.

But that's not the worst part.

They also can contain asbestos. And are usually liquidated once they expire. You never know how they were stored...etc.

I put it on without the filter, and it definitely was super uncomfortable and claustrophobic.

I had to take out my contacts and clean them since something in the mask got in my eye.

So even if you are buying for fun...make sure to clean it out. Comes with a nice fabric bag, though!

What About Beards & Kids?

A little update for questions in the comment section...

What if you have a beard?

It's just not going to have that airtight seal you want.

Our bearded staff have worn the CM-7M in our pepper spray grenade test and came out unscathed.

But that's not the same as something more pervasive or harmful.

The CDC recently published a guide to acceptable beards (PDF). Great use of resources...and yes...the "toothbrush."

Your best bet would be to shave...

How about for children?

There's one from Mira that totally isn't scary at all...

Best for Kids

Mira Safety MD-1 Children’s Gas Mask

$219

at Mira Safety

Prices accurate at time of writing

$219 at Mira Safety

Amazon (see price)

Meet the Experts

PPT Founder and CEO Eric Hung led the research and testing for this article after extensive testing of each of the gas masks and respirators listed above. Eric is an NRA-certified pistol instructor and a USPSA/3-Gun/NRL22 competitor. He has also researched and written over 250 articles on firearms and gear. Eric has used gas masks in competition and as a survivalist.

Editor-in-Chief Jacki Billings runs our experienced team of reviewers. She is a National Rifle Association Basic Pistol Instructor as well as a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, ACES: Society for Editing, and the Professional Outdoor Media Association. Jacki has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and has worked as a media professional for close to 20 years, specializing in gun media for almost 10 years. With 2,000+ articles to her name, she uses her professional journalism and editing experience to set testing protocols and editorial standards for Pew Pew Tactical.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, this helped you choose the best respiratory protection for your intended use.

For cheap and accessible protection that gets the green light from the CDC:

• Surgical Masks

If you want to up it to available KN95 masks...

And for full-face and half-face respirators...

Parcil PD-100 Full Face Respirator

$120

at Parcil Distribution

Prices accurate at time of writing

$120 at Parcil Distribution

And if you need all the bells and whistles of protection (and shooting ability)...check out MIRA.

Mira Safety CM-7M Tactical Gas Mask

$289

at Mira Safety

Prices accurate at time of writing

$289 at Mira Safety

Amazon (see price)

Combined with their 20-year shelf-life filter.

MIRA NBC-77 SOF 40mm Filter

$80

at Mira Safety

Prices accurate at time of writing

$80 at Mira Safety

Amazon (see price)

Or their new P3 Virus Filter.

P3 Virus Filter (6-Pack)

$160

at Mira Safety

Prices accurate at time of writing

$160 at Mira Safety

In a quieter time...

If you're doing a general prep bag...or want to be 99.97% protected from general contaminants...get the 3M P100 Disposable Respirators.

Basic Pick

3M P100 Particulate Respirator

$11

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$11 at Amazon

If you'd like a little more protection in a reusable format...get the 3M Half Face Respirator.

3M Medium Half Face Respirator

$16

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$16 at Amazon

Combined with the 7093 P100 filters with smell reduction.

3M 7093 Particulate Filter

$16

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$16 at Amazon

Need other prepping help?

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Latest Updates

• January 2026: Updated data based on testing.
• January 2025: Added 3M 6200, Removed Parcil T60
• June 2024: Removed Halo cloth mask and other mentions of cloth mask since there have been better reusable and disposable alternatives.
• October 2023: Info on CBRN added, prices and products updated.