Like ShelledPants I'm of a similar philosophy of "
Why buy what you can build"
I posted a while back about the
TFarge or DivisionOneSix face mask. I liked the hybrid approach of mesh centre portion and cloth sides, to create a protective mask that still allowed you to get down on your sights. Typically I haven't had a problem with traditional mesh masks, but was eager to give the TFarge mask a try. Unfortunately the guy making them only sells them in the UK, and when I contacted him explaining I was eager to give his mask a try, he never responded. Too bad for him...
I took the feedback of Red Dot:
Quote:
Originally Posted by Red Dot
Looks like something you could DIY with the right material.
|
and lurkingknight:
Quote:
Originally Posted by lurkingknight
looks like 500d cordura, which would be like sandpaper on your skin if the backside is all cordura and not something like neoprene or something more comfortable.
|
...and made my own version of the mask.
I can't confirm since the DivisionOneSix website has been down for a few weeks, but from what I remember, the mask wasn't cheap and sold for just under $100 CAD. In the end, if I cost out the price of materials that went into the mask, it cost less than a quarter of that price to make. I ended up grabbing an old sewing machine from a family member, and learned how to sew in the process. A win-win by all accounts.
The mask uses a recycled $5 mesh mask, 1000D Military Green (Olive Drab) Cordura, some appropriately coloured hook and loop I had previously laying around and Invista Coolmax fabric for the interior liner. I also purchased a roll of black and green bonded nylon thread to sew it all together. In the end, Unfortunately I had to spend more than the cost of just buying a TFarge mask, because fabric and thread has to be purchased in minimum quantities, but the actual cost of materials that went into the mask are pennies on the dollar, and I can use the extra material to make other things.
Close-ups of the end result.
Rather than sewing a fixed loop like all of the other mesh masks, I made the loops open-able which allows me to change the type of headstrap I'm using. I can use a single-strap if I have a lot of gear on my head, a double strap type for improved stability to prevent it from sliding around, or basic loops of shock-cord if I plan to run it with my helmet.
After using it for the first time this weekend, I will say it is much more comfortable on your face than a mesh mask; however, after a few hours in 30C degree heat, the inner layer of Coolmax basically turns into a sponge. A plain metal mask is still best for breathability and in hot weather. I'll probably regulate this mask to indoor use where I don't have to wear it for long periods, or cooler weather where sweat is not a major issue.