A gas mask is a must-have for preppers, especially if you live near a natural disaster area or a major city. These devices can protect you from airborne threats, including toxic chemicals, biological and chemical toxins, as well as nuclear, radiological, and chemical particulate matter. There are a wide variety of options available for you to purchase, but you should take the time to review your risks and determine what type of mask best suits your needs.

It is important to keep in mind that a gas mask will be effective only when used with the proper cartridge or filter for a particular biological or chemical substance. The most popular filter, the N95, provides protection against common viruses and bacteria. It is possible to get a filter that protects against multiple substances, but these are more expensive and will require additional cartridges.

There are a wide range of gas masks for sale, but you should only buy new ones from reputable retailers in sealed packaging. You should also avoid buying military surplus equipment on the internet, as it is likely that the filters are either expired or filled with asbestos and that the rubber seals will degrade over time.

If you are in the market for a new gas mask, consider some of the following highly-rated options. These are all made by companies that are respected in the law enforcement and military world, so you can be confident that you will have a reliable device to use in an emergency or riot situation.

Avon C50 CBRN. $450. This is the civilian and law enforcement version of the US military M50 mask. It is highly recommended by CBRNE experts as the current cream of the crop. It uses the preferred 40mm mount on both cheeks, and has a distortion-free, flexible lens that won’t yellow. It is compatible with a wide range of accessories, including sun-blocking visor outserts.

MSA Millenium. $200. The current Israeli army and police gas mask for their entire population over concerns of chemical/biological attacks from neighbors. It is a good choice for those that want to be ready for any scenario but don’t have the budget for the pricier Avon and MSA models.

If you are on a budget, consider this set from NASUM. It combines a goggle and respirator setup into one unit, with a secure head strap. It has a large field of view, and its silicone skirting protects against projectiles while offering a snug fit. It also comes with extra filters and a cleaning kit, making it an excellent option for anyone on a tight budget. The manufacturer claims that the NIOSAH N95 and N99 filters it uses are both rated to NIOSH P100 level, meaning that they provide protection against most respiratory hazards. However, there is a risk that the mask will not be as comfortable or functional for users with larger faces. This may be mitigated by purchasing additional cheek filters for greater coverage and comfort.gas mask for sale